Let's face it: running shoes get gross. Mud, sweat, street grime – it all adds up. But before you toss those trusty trainers in the washing machine, hold on! There’s a right way and averywrong way to clean them, and the wrong way can lead to premature wear and tear (or even complete destruction). I've learned this the hard way, believe me.
Keeping Your Kicks Clean: A Gentle Approach
The good news is, you absolutely can keep your running shoes clean without ruining them. It just takes a little bit of patience and the right techniques. Think of it like washing a delicate sweater – you wouldn't throw it in with your jeans, would you? The same principle applies here. We're aiming for a thorough clean, but with minimal stress on the materials.
What you'll need:
- A soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works wonders!)
- Mild laundry detergent (something gentle and fragrance-free is best)
- Warm water
- Clean cloths or sponges
- Newspaper or shoe trees (for drying)
Important Note: Always check the manufacturer's instructions for your specific shoes. Some materials might have specific cleaning recommendations. If you're unsure, erring on the side of caution is always the best bet.
The Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Okay, let’s get down to business. Here’s the process I use, and it’s kept my running shoes looking (and smelling) fresh for years.
- Remove the Laces and Insoles: Take out the laces and insoles. These can be washed separately. Laces can often be tossed in a mesh laundry bag and put in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Insoles should be hand-washed.
- Dry Brush: Before you even think about water, use your soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt, mud, or debris. Focus on the soles and around the edges. This is a crucial step because it prevents you from grinding dirtintothe fabric when you add water.
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: In a bowl or basin, mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent. You don’t need a lot – a teaspoon or two should be plenty.
- Wash the Shoes: Dip your cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the shoes. Pay attention to areas that are particularly dirty. Don’t be afraid to get into the nooks and crannies, but avoid scrubbing too aggressively. You don't want to damage the materials.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Once you've scrubbed the shoes, rinse them thoroughly with clean, warm water to remove all traces of soap. Soap residue can attract dirt and potentially damage the materials over time. I usually rinse them under a gentle stream of water from the faucet.
- Wash the Insoles: Use the same soapy water to gently wash the insoles. Rinse them well and squeeze out any excess water.
- Air Dry: This is the most important step! Stuff the shoes with newspaper or shoe trees to help them maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Direct sunlight can fade the colors and damage the materials. Never, ever put your running shoes in the dryer! The high heat can warp the soles and damage the glue.
Drying is Key: Avoiding Musty Smells and Damage
As I mentioned above, drying is absolutely crucial. Here's why and a few tips:
- Proper Air Circulation: Make sure there's good airflow around the shoes. A fan can help speed up the drying process.
- Replace Newspaper Regularly: If you're using newspaper, replace it every few hours as it absorbs moisture.
- Patience is a Virtue: It can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours (or even longer) for running shoes to dry completely. Don't be tempted to wear them before they're fully dry, as this can lead to mold and mildew growth.
Can I put my running shoes in the washing machine?
This is a common question, and the answer is… it depends. While some manufacturers might say it's okay on a delicate cycle, I generally advise against it. The washing machine can be too harsh on the shoes, especially the glue that holds them together. The tumbling action can also damage the shape and structure of the shoe. If youmustuse a washing machine, follow these guidelines:
- Use a mesh laundry bag: This will provide some protection from the harshness of the machine.
- Wash on a delicate cycle with cold water: Use a mild detergent.
- Remove the laces and insoles: Wash them separately by hand.
- Never put them in the dryer! Always air dry as described above.
Even with these precautions, washing your running shoes in the machine is still a risk. Hand-washing is always the safest option.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains
Sometimes, a simple wash isn't enough to remove stubborn stains. Here are a few tips for dealing with those:
- For mud stains: Let the mud dry completely before attempting to remove it. This will make it easier to brush off.
- For grass stains: Try using a mixture of vinegar and water to gently scrub the stain.
- For oil stains: Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain and gently scrub with a soft brush.
What about getting rid of odors?
Even clean shoes can sometimes retain odors, especially if you sweat a lot. Here are a few tricks to freshen them up:
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. Vacuum it out the next day. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber.
- Dryer Sheets: Place dryer sheets inside the shoes to give them a fresh scent.
- Cedar Shoe Trees: Cedar shoe trees not only help maintain the shape of your shoes, but they also absorb moisture and odors.
- Anti-Odor Sprays: There are many commercially available anti-odor sprays specifically designed for shoes.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
The best way to keep your running shoes clean is to prevent them from getting too dirty in the first place! Here are a few simple tips:
- Wipe them down after each run: Use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or mud.
- Avoid running in overly muddy or wet conditions: If possible, choose routes that are relatively clean and dry.
- Use shoe covers: If you're running in particularly dirty conditions, consider using shoe covers.
- Rotate your shoes: Giving your shoes a day or two to dry out completely between runs can help prevent the buildup of moisture and odors.
Taking care of your running shoes is an investment in your comfort and performance. A little bit of cleaning goes a long way! So, take a few minutes to show your shoes some love – they'll thank you for it with many more miles of comfortable running.