How to Clean Sneakers New Balance: Top Tips You Can’t Miss!

New Balance sneakers are known for their comfort, durability, and stylish designs. But just like any other footwear, they can get dirty and worn over time. Maintaining their pristine look is crucial to extending their lifespan and keeping them looking their best. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices on how to clean sneakers New Balance, ensuring they stay fresh and looking their best.

Understanding the Materials

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to identify the materials of your New Balance sneakers. This will help you choose the right cleaning agents and avoid damaging your shoes. Most New Balance sneakers are made with a combination of materials, including:

• Mesh: This breathable fabric is common in the upper part of many New Balance sneakers. It’s lightweight and allows for airflow, but it can also be prone to staining.
• Leather: Leather uppers add durability and a classic look to New Balance sneakers. However, leather requires specific care to prevent cracking or discoloration.
• Suede: Suede is a soft, velvety material that adds a luxurious touch. However, it’s delicate and requires gentle cleaning techniques.
• Synthetic materials: Many New Balance sneakers utilize synthetic materials for their durability and water resistance. These materials are typically easier to clean than natural materials.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Gather the following supplies before you begin cleaning your New Balance sneakers:

• Soft-bristled brush: This is essential for removing dirt and debris from the surface of your sneakers. A toothbrush or a dedicated shoe brush works well.
• Microfiber cloth: A microfiber cloth is perfect for wiping away excess moisture and polishing the leather or synthetic materials.
• White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural cleaner that can effectively remove stains and odors.
• Baking soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can help remove stubborn stains.
• Dish soap: A mild dish soap can be used to clean the surface of your sneakers.
• Warm water: Warm water is essential for dissolving dirt and cleaning agents.
• Old toothbrush: An old toothbrush can be used to scrub away dirt and grime from the grooves and crevices of your sneakers.
• Paper towels: Paper towels are useful for drying your sneakers and absorbing excess moisture.
• Shoe laces: If your laces are dirty, you can replace them with a clean pair or wash them separately.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning Your New Balance Sneakers

Follow these steps to clean your New Balance sneakers effectively:

1. Remove the laces: Start by removing the laces and setting them aside. You can wash them separately with mild detergent and air-dry them.
2. Brush away loose dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt, debris, or dust from the surface of your sneakers.
3. Prepare the cleaning solution: Mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. You can also add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the solution for extra cleaning power.
4. Clean the outer surface: Dip the brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the outer surface of your sneakers, paying attention to the areas with dirt and grime.
5. Clean the inner surface: Use a clean cloth dipped in the cleaning solution to wipe down the inner surface of your sneakers, including the tongue and the lining.
6. Clean the soles: Scrub the soles of your sneakers with the brush and cleaning solution to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated.
7. Clean the laces (optional): If you want to clean your laces, soak them in a solution of warm water and mild detergent for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse them thoroughly and air-dry them.
8. Rinse and dry: Rinse your sneakers thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the outer surface of your sneakers. Stuff the sneakers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and help them dry faster.
9. Air dry: Allow your sneakers to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid using a hairdryer or other heat sources to dry your sneakers, as this can damage the materials.
10. Clean the insoles: If your insoles are removable, take them out and clean them separately with a damp cloth and mild soap. Allow them to air dry completely before putting them back in your sneakers.
11. Polish leather (optional): If your New Balance sneakers are made of leather, you can use a leather conditioner to polish them and keep them looking their best.

Cleaning Specific Materials

Mesh:

• For mesh sneakers, use a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris.
• You can also use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution to clean the mesh surface.
• Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the delicate mesh fabric.

Leather:

• Use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution to clean leather sneakers.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the leather.
• After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and hydrated.

Suede:

• Suede is a delicate material that requires special care.
• Use a suede brush or a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris from suede sneakers.
• You can also use a suede eraser to remove stubborn stains.
• Avoid using water or harsh chemicals on suede, as this can damage the material.

Synthetic materials:

• Synthetic materials are generally easier to clean than natural materials.
• You can use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution to clean synthetic sneakers.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the synthetic materials.

Preventing Stains and Keeping Your Sneakers Fresh

• Wear socks: Wearing socks with your New Balance sneakers will help absorb sweat and prevent stains.
• Clean your sneakers regularly: Clean your sneakers after each wear to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
• Store your sneakers properly: Store your sneakers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.
• Use shoe trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your sneakers and prevent creases.
• Rotate your sneakers: Rotating your sneakers will give them a chance to air out and prevent wear and tear.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your New Balance Sneakers Looking Their Best

By following these tips and cleaning your New Balance sneakers regularly, you can keep them looking fresh and new for years to come. Remember to choose the right cleaning agents for the materials of your sneakers and to always air dry them completely. With a little care and attention, your New Balance sneakers will remain a stylish and comfortable part of your wardrobe.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I wash my New Balance sneakers in a washing machine?

A: It’s not recommended to wash your New Balance sneakers in a washing machine, as this can damage the materials and the structure of the shoe. However, if you must wash them, use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.

Q: How often should I clean my New Balance sneakers?

A: It’s best to clean your New Balance sneakers after each wear, especially if you’ve been wearing them for exercise or in wet conditions. You can also clean them less frequently if you haven’t been wearing them heavily.

Q: What should I do if my New Balance sneakers have a strong odor?

A: To remove odors from your New Balance sneakers, you can try sprinkling baking soda inside the shoes and letting them sit overnight. You can also use a shoe deodorizer or spray.

Q: What are some good alternatives to using white vinegar to clean my sneakers?

A: If you don’t have white vinegar, you can use a mild soap solution or a commercial shoe cleaner. However, it’s important to test the cleaning agent on a small, inconspicuous area of your sneakers before applying it to the entire shoe.