Whether you’re a passionate runner or a fashion enthusiast who prides yourself on always looking your best, keeping your trainers in pristine condition is essential to making sure they last as long as possible.
But not to worry, just like cleaning regular footwear, trainers only require a handful of shoe care essentials to upkeep.
If you’re looking to maintain a new pair or breathe some life back into your old favourites, cluing yourself up on the safest way to clean your trainers without ruining them is important. So, to make things simple for you, we’ve put together all our top tips and tricks. Our guide tells you the best way to clean your muddy trainers, including how to preserve certain materials, how to wash your soles, and simple hacks to tackle lingering smells.
Before you get started
To make the chore of cleaning your trainers as quick and easy as possible, make sure to prepare your sneakers ahead of time. Begin by taking out the laces and insoles (if they’re removable) and put them to one side for cleaning later. Next, get yourself a soft brush or cloth to remove any dried dirt on the outside of the trainers. Now, you’re ready to follow the steps below to achieve box-fresh sneakers!
How to clean fabric, canvas and mesh trainers
First up, we have fabric, mesh and canvas trainers – arguably the easiest materials when it comes to cleaning. Whether they’re caked in mud or just in need of a tidy up, these steps will have them looking as good as new in no time:
- Make a mixture – Mix a small amount of washing-up liquid with water. Avoid using any products containing harsh chemicals to protect the exterior, as these can sometimes cause damage. A 1:1 ratio of cleaning liquid and water is ideal.
- Start cleaning – Take a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush and dip it into the mixture. Now, gently use the brush to tackle stains or tough patches of dirt. With mesh, be particularly careful to avoid snagging the material while brushing.
- Wipe – Once you’re happy, use a clean cloth to wipe away any of the remaining solution. This will also remove any dirt that has been lifted in the brushing process.
- Attention to detail – For intricate patterns, such as detailed soles or logos, take a toothpick or dip a cotton bud in the cleaning solution and gently work around the area to get into the finer lines and crevices.
- Leave to dry – After all the cleaning solution has been wiped off, allow your trainers to dry naturally, stuffing them with newspaper to maintain the shape.
How to clean leather trainers
When it comes to leather trainers, there’s a wide selection of dedicated cleaning products available. However, if you’re looking to try your hand at cleaning with some basic home essentials, follow our steps below:
- Prepare a cleaning solution – Avoid any harsh cleaning products like laundry detergent when cleaning leather, as it can cause damage or staining. Instead, opt for a very weak solution of water and washing-up liquid.
- Gently tackle the outer – Rather than using a brush, use a soft cloth to wipe the outside of your trainers. It can be very easy to damage leather, so stick to a gentle wiping motion instead of harsh rubbing.
- Wipe as you go – Soak up any excess solution as you clean, and refrain from putting too much on the trainers as leather can become ruined if too much liquid is absorbed.
- Put to dry – Once you’re happy with the clean, put to the side to dry naturally.
For more advice on how to clean leather footwear, have a read of our in-depth shoe cleaning guide. Or, take a look at this article for help with polishing.
How to clean trainer soles
Knowing how to upkeep your trainer soles is essential in maintaining an overall fresh look – especially when you’re wearing a chunky pair where the edges of the sole are much more noticeable. For some tried-and-tested steps, look at our advice below:
- Fill a bowl – Just like the cleaning solution used for canvas, fabric and mesh, mix warm water with a small amount of soap or laundry detergent. A 1:1 ratio of cleaning liquid and water is again recommended.
- Scrub away – Pick up an old toothbrush or scrubbing brush, dip into the solution and give the soles a good scrub. Remember to pay attention to any grooves and textured areas where dirt and debris can get trapped.
- Try bicarbonate of soda or toothpaste – For tougher stains, make a paste using bicarbonate of soda and water. Apply this to the sole, scrub with a brush and then gently wipe off. For more help on cleaning white soles, take a look here.
- Rinse off – Wipe off any excess once finished to remove the leftover cleaning solution, along with any dirt or debris lifted off the soles.
- Leave to dry – It’s important to let the soles dry completely before wearing your trainers again.
How to clean smelly trainers
Cleaning the inside of trainers involves not only removing any visible dirt, but most importantly, addressing the hidden bacteria that is responsible for the odour.
To eliminate any unwanted smells, start by removing the insoles (where possible). Once removed, shake out any loose dirt from inside the trainers and then wipe the interior with a cloth. If you were able to remove the insoles, you can handwash them in a bowl of warm water and washing-up liquid. Some insoles can be cleaned in the washing machine, but be sure to refer to the specific care guide for you shoes before doing so.
Now clean, generously sprinkle bicarbonate of soda inside and leave overnight – bicarbonate of soda is an alkaline substance so when it encounters an acidic odour (like those found in smelly trainers), it neutralises the smell.
Visit our dedicated guide for more detailed advice on how to stop your footwear from smelling, or pick up a pair of odour-fighting insoles to help prevent the issue in the first place.
If you really can’t get rid of a nasty smell, why not treat yourself to a new pair of women’s or men’s trainers? You know you deserve them!
How to clean trainers in the washing machine
Whether or not you can put your trainers in the washing machine is up for debate. While some say that it could be an option depending on the material and construction of your sneakers, we recommend against this method to avoid ruining your favourite kicks.
If you do want to try this method, always check the manufacturer’s advice before attempting to do so to avoid any unwanted damage. If the manufacturer states that your trainers are machine washable, then as with the handwashing steps, start by removing the insoles and laces first, and brush off any loose mud or debris. If you have any tough stains you want to tackle, pre-treat these by scrubbing with a solution of mild washing-up liquid and water. As an optional step, stuff your trainers with an old tea towel or face cloth to help keep the shape. Finally, set your washer to a cold, gentle cycle, pop your trainers in a mesh laundry bag, and place in the washing machine.
Top tip: If your trainers have leather panels or suede details, then always refrain from putting them in the washer!
How to clean trainer laces
- Cleaning your laces is a great way to freshen up the overall look of your trainers. If your trainer laces are particularly dirty or stained, pre-treat them with a small amount of stain remover or washing-up liquid, letting them sit for a couple of minutes.
- While waiting for the treatment to soak in, fill up a bowl with warm water and add a small amount of washing-up liquid. Once you’ve used any pre-treatment, place the trainer laces in the warm, soapy water for at least 30 minutes.
- Once soaked, take an old toothbrush or a small brush to tackle any soiled or stained areas, then rinse under cool water to remove any excess soap or dislodged dirt.
- Finally, hang up or lay flat to air-dry completely before putting them back in your trainers.
For more help with re-lacing your sneakers with extra flair, check out some of our favourite shoelace styles here.
FAQ's
Can you put trainers in the dryer?
No, it is not advised to put your trainers in the tumble dryer. This is due to the intense heat and tumbling action which can damage materials such as mesh and leather, compromising the colour, texture and shape. The dryer can also affect adhesives used in making the trainers, causing the structure to fall apart. Always refer to any manufacturer advice for your specific style and model if you’re considering the dryer.
How do you clean trainers with bicarbonate of soda?
Mix a couple of tablespoons of bicarbonate powder with enough water to form a thick paste – make sure it’s easy to spread but not too runny. Once ready, use an old toothbrush to apply the paste to any dirty or stained areas on your trainers, then allow to sit for 30 minutes to break down the dirt. To finish off, wipe away all the paste and leave to air-dry thoroughly before wearing again.
What setting and temperature should I wash trainers on?
We wouldn’t recommend washing your favourite trainers in the washing machine. However, if you do decide to, trainers should be washed on a gentle cycle, only using cold water to stop any colour fading and to prevent any damage to the material. Avoid hot water and high spin speeds as this will likely ruin the structure.
Does shaving foam clean trainers?
Although seemingly unconventional, shaving foam can be an effective cleaning solution for trainers. The mild detergent properties can help to break down dirt and stains, ideal as an alternative to use on fabric, mesh and canvas. Just apply a small amount to a soft cloth or brush, gently scrub, and then wipe away with a damp cloth – test on a small area first!
We hope our top tips and tricks to cleaning your trainers have been of help. For more advice on cleaning, take a look at our general guide, and for more style inspiration, head over to our blog. If you’re looking to treat yourself to some new trainers, browse our affordable selection for men, women, and kids.
