Sneaker care secrets: How to keep your sneakers fresh?
It's natural that you want to preserve the condition of your sneakers for the long term. To keep your shoes fresh and clean, it's important to maintain them with proper care. Here are some practical tips and tricks!
1. Always remove excess dirt before cleaning
Before you start cleaning your shoes, always check them for any larger dirt, such as mud, sand, or leaves. Use a soft brush or a dry cloth to remove excess dirt to avoid setting coarse dirt deeper into the shoe material.
2. Manual cleaning – the best method for delicate materials
Sneakers can be made of a variety of materials, including leather, canvas, and synthetics. Hand cleaning is the best way to care for delicate materials because it is gentler on the shoes. Use a mild soap solution (such as dish soap or detergent) on a brush and gently scrub, then wipe with a semi-damp cloth to remove the soap from the sneaker. After that, wipe with a dry towel to prevent more dirt from sticking and to help dry.
3. Machine wash – not recommended.
Hand washing is best, but your shoes may be very dirty and machine washing may be necessary. However, always make sure your shoes are machine washable. Since heat and movement can damage their shape, the glue can come off and cause permanent damage to the sneaker. If you do clean them in the washing machine, place them in a mesh bag and use a low-temperature, gentle cycle.
4. Interior care – Don’t forget the lining!
The inside of your shoes is just as important as the outside. The inside of your shoes can easily accumulate odors if not properly cared for. Use an antibacterial spray or deodorizer to freshen the lining, and if necessary, remove the insoles to wash them.
5. Cleaning agents and care products
Using the right cleaning products will help keep your shoes looking fresh. For shoes, it is recommended to use cleaning products specifically designed for sports shoes or leather shoes that are gentle on the materials. For leather shoes, use a leather care cream to maintain the elasticity and shine of your shoes. For synthetic materials, you can also use a waterproof spray to prevent water from seeping in.
6. Drying the shoes – It is important not to put them in the sun!
When your shoes get wet, it's important to dry them properly. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as the sun's strong rays can dry out the materials, leading to accelerated wear. It's best to place paper towels or newspaper inside the shoes to absorb the moisture, then let them dry naturally at room temperature.
7. Sole and lace care
Don't forget your shoe soles and laces! Laces should be replaced occasionally to keep them fresh. Also clean the soles regularly with a chemical-free cleaner to remove any accumulated dirt and maintain the stability of the shoe.
To protect your sneakers, it's important to take good care of them regularly. Using the right cleaning products, drying them thoroughly, and refreshing the lining will all help keep them looking fresh and comfortable for a long time. By following these tips, you can be sure that every step you take will be stylish and comfortable!
