For runners, having dirty running shoes is a typical issue, but maintaining them doesn’t have to be difficult. I am sure that your dirty running sneakers will appear brand new and prepared for your next workout in no time at all with a few easy steps and a small time commitment. Here we will go through a simple, 5-minute method for this guide to clean your dirty running sneakers.
5 Easy Steps to Clean Your Dirty Running Sneakers in 5 Minutes
Step 1: Remove Excess Dirt
The first thing to do is clean your running shoes’ surface of any extra dirt or particles. Dust out the upper, midsole, and outsole of the shoes with a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush. This will help loosen any resistant dirt and improve the cleaning process.
Step 2: Prepare Cleaning Solution
Next, prepare a simple cleaning solution using mild soap or detergent and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the materials of your shoes. Mix the soap or detergent with water in a small bowl or bucket until suds form.
Step 3: Spot Clean
Use a fresh sponge or towel to dip into the cleaning solution and squeeze away any extra money liquid. Spot clean any stains or particularly dirty portions of your running shoes with the damp towel. Scrub the impacted areas gently in a circular manner until the dirt comes off.
Step 4: Clean the Insoles
Remove the insoles from your running shoes and clean them separately. Use the same cleaning solution and a cloth or sponge to wipe down the insoles, paying special attention to any areas with odor or discoloration. Allow the insoles to air dry completely before placing them back into your shoes.
Step 5: Rinse and Air Dry
To get rid of any last bits of soap residue, give your running shoes a thorough rinse with clean water after spot cleaning. To clean the shoes and get rid of extra soap, use a fresh, moist cloth. To help them keep their form, stuff your shoes with newspaper or a fresh towel. Then, let them air dry in a place with good ventilation and protection from the sun.
Conclusion:
In only five minutes, you can thoroughly clean your dusty running shoes with this simple and quick process. You can maintain the appearance and smell of your shoes for many runs by following these easy instructions and utilizing gentle cleaning products. So don’t let unclean shoes stop you from moving forward; treat them well and go out on the road with confidence!
Here are some tips and warnings to keep in mind while cleaning dirty running shoes:
Tips:
- Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution: For shoe cleaning, use a mild soap or detergent dissolved in warm water. Bleach or harsh chemicals could make the materials and reduce the functionality of the shoes.
- Remove Insoles: Take out the insoles from your shoes before cleaning them. Clean the insoles separately using the same gentle cleaning solution to prevent odor and bacterial growth.
- Air Dry Thoroughly: Let your running shoes air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight after cleaning. To help them keep their shape while they dry, stuff them with newspaper or a fresh towel.
- Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Before cleaning your running shoes, check the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for cleaning and care. This will ensure that you’re taking the best possible care of your shoes and prolonging their lifespan.
Warnings:
- Avoid Machine Washing: Although some running shoes can be machine washed, doing so is usually not advised because the heat and agitation might harm the materials and impair the shoes’ functionality. Try to clean with your hands whenever you can.
- Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals on your running shoes, as they can damage the materials and affect the shoes’ integrity. Stick to mild soap or detergent and warm water for cleaning.
- Don’t Dry in Direct Sunlight: Running shoes should not be dried in the sun since this might discolor the materials or make them brittle over time. Instead, select an indoor drying space with good ventilation.
FAQs related to cleaning dirty running shoes:
1. How often should I clean my running shoes?
It’s a good idea to clean your running shoes regularly, especially if you run in muddy or wet conditions.
Aim to clean them after every few runs or whenever they become visibly dirty to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
2. Can I put my running shoes in the washing machine?
It’s generally recommended that we shouldn’t use a washing machine to clean running shoes. Due to the agitation and heat, shoes’ performance and materials can be affected. Instead, take a gentle cleaning solution and a soft cloth or brush to clean your shoes.
3. What should I do if my running shoes start to smell?
Take off the insoles from your shoes and give them a special cleaning with some mild soap and water to get rid of odours. To absorb smells, you can also place baking soda inside your shoes and leave them there overnight. To stop bacterial growth, make sure that your shoes are fully air-dried after every run.
4. Can I use bleach or harsh chemicals to clean my running shoes?
Using bleach or other strong chemicals on your running shoes is not recommended as they can harm the materials and compromise the integrity of the shoe. To reduce needless wear and tear, clean with warm water and light soap or detergent instead of scrubbing too hard.
5. How can I prevent my running shoes from getting dirty in the first place?
Although dirt and dust buildup in running shoes is unavoidable there are some steps you can do to reduce the effects of wear and tear. When running on trails, try to stay away from muddy or damp situations and protect your shoes by using shoes or shoe covers. Additionally, rotate between multiple pairs of shoes to give each pair time to dry out and air out between runs.
