What To Know
- Use a damp cloth or a toothbrush to clean the inside of your shoes, focusing on the insoles and the tongue.
- For heavily soiled fabric uppers, you can consider using a washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of detergent.
- Use a specialized leather cleaner or a damp cloth with a mild soap to clean leather uppers.
New Balance sneakers are known for their comfort, style, and durability. But even the toughest shoes can get dirty, especially if you wear them regularly. Whether you’re a runner, a casual wearer, or just love the look of New Balance, keeping your sneakers clean is essential for maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. This guide will walk you through the best practices for cleaning your New Balance sneakers, ensuring they stay looking their best for years to come.
Why Clean Your New Balance Sneakers?
Beyond aesthetics, cleaning your New Balance sneakers is crucial for several reasons:
- Hygiene: Dirt, sweat, and bacteria accumulate on your shoes, especially in the inner lining. Cleaning them helps prevent odor and potential foot problems.
- Durability: Dirt and grime can damage the materials of your shoes, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Performance: For runners, a clean shoe can improve performance by reducing friction and allowing for better breathability.
- Appearance: Clean sneakers simply look better! A fresh pair of New Balance shoes can boost your confidence and complete any outfit.
Before You Begin: Essential Tools and Supplies
Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the following tools and supplies:
- Soft-bristled brush: Use a dedicated brush for cleaning shoes, preferably one with a soft bristle.
- Old toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush is great for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- Warm water: Use lukewarm water for cleaning. Avoid extremely hot water as it can damage the materials.
- Mild detergent: Choose a gentle detergent, like dish soap or a specialized shoe cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
- White vinegar: White vinegar can help remove stubborn stains and deodorize your shoes.
- Towel: Use a clean towel to absorb excess water and dry your shoes.
- Baking soda: Baking soda can help absorb odor and neutralize unpleasant smells.
- Newspaper or paper towels: For stuffing the shoes and helping them retain their shape while drying.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Your New Balance Sneakers
1. Remove the laces: Start by loosening and removing the laces. You can wash the laces separately with the detergent and water in a bowl or washing machine.
2. Brush off loose dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt, debris, or mud from the surface of your shoes.
3. Clean the midsoles and outsoles: Apply a small amount of mild detergent to a damp cloth or brush. Gently scrub the midsoles and outsoles, focusing on areas with heavy dirt or stains.
4. Clean the uppers: For fabric uppers, use a damp cloth with a small amount of detergent. For leather uppers, use a leather cleaner or a damp cloth with a mild soap. Avoid soaking leather uppers in water.
5. Clean the inside: Use a damp cloth or a toothbrush to clean the inside of your shoes, focusing on the insoles and the tongue.
6. Rinse and dry: Rinse your shoes thoroughly with clean water. Avoid soaking the shoes completely, especially if they have leather uppers. Stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help them retain their shape while drying.
7. Air dry: Allow your shoes to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the materials.
Specialized Cleaning Tips for Different Materials
Fabric Uppers:
- For heavily soiled fabric uppers, you can consider using a washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of detergent. Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from damage.
Leather Uppers:
- Use a specialized leather cleaner or a damp cloth with a mild soap to clean leather uppers. Avoid soaking leather in water, as this can damage the material.
Mesh Uppers:
- Mesh uppers are generally easy to clean. Use a damp cloth with a small amount of detergent and gently scrub the mesh. Avoid using a brush, as this can snag the mesh.
Suede Uppers:
- Suede is a delicate material, so it requires special care. Use a suede brush to remove dirt and debris. For stains, use a specialized suede cleaner.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains
For stubborn stains, consider the following methods:
- White vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush.
- Baking soda: Make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush.
- Commercial stain removers: Use a commercial stain remover specifically designed for shoes. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Preventing Future Stains and Odor
- Regular cleaning: The key to keeping your New Balance sneakers clean is to clean them regularly.
- Use shoe trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your shoes and prevent creases.
- Rotate your shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. This will give your shoes time to air out and prevent odor.
- Use insoles: Insoles can help absorb sweat and odor.
- Store your shoes properly: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or heat.
Sneaker Care: Beyond Cleaning
While cleaning is essential, maintaining your New Balance sneakers goes beyond just washing them. Here are some additional tips for keeping your shoes in top condition:
- Proper lacing: Proper lacing can improve the fit and comfort of your shoes.
- Use shoe polish: Shoe polish can help protect the leather and keep it looking new.
- Replace worn-out soles: If the soles of your shoes are worn out, replace them to prevent injuries.
- Consider professional cleaning: For heavily soiled or damaged shoes, consider taking them to a professional shoe cleaner.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I put my New Balance sneakers in the washing machine?
A: While you can wash some fabric sneakers in the washing machine, it’s not recommended for all New Balance models. Check the care label on your shoes for specific washing instructions.
Q: How often should I clean my New Balance sneakers?
A: Ideally, you should clean your sneakers after every wear. However, if you don’t wear them frequently, you can clean them every few weeks or as needed.
Q: What should I do if my New Balance sneakers have a strong odor?
A: You can use baking soda to absorb odor. Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and leave them overnight. In the morning, shake out the baking soda. You can also use a shoe deodorizer or wash the insoles separately.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my New Balance sneakers?
A: No, bleach can damage the materials of your shoes. Use a mild detergent or a specialized shoe cleaner instead.
Q: How can I prevent my New Balance sneakers from getting dirty in the first place?
A: You can use a shoe protector spray to help repel dirt and water. You can also wear shoe covers or avoid wearing your sneakers in muddy or dusty environments.
By following these tips, you can keep your New Balance sneakers looking and feeling their best for years to come. Remember, proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the quality and performance of your shoes. Enjoy the comfort and style of your New Balance sneakers with the confidence that they are clean and well-maintained!
