How to Clean Sneakers and Athletic Shoes

Determining How to Wash Your Sneakers

First, check the inside of the shoe for any care instructions. If none are available, visit the manufacturer's website for instructions.

If your shoes cannot be machine washed, pick up a shoe cleaning kit and follow the instructions for proper cleaning.

Most canvas and nylon sneakers can be safely machine washed—as well as athletic shoes. Leather and suede, however, cannot be machine washed.

Clean Shoelaces and Insoles First

To begin the cleaning process, remove the shoelaces from the shoes you'd like to clean. Wash the shoelaces as you would a t-shirt, placing them in a load of laundry with detergent. When the cycle's complete, simply toss them into the dryer with your other clothes.

Next, remove the insoles from your shoes and pour a little baking soda on them. This will neutralize bacteria and help to eliminate any odors. Then let them sit outside for a few hours. After they have aired out, clean the insoles by scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush and soap. Finally, hang them up to air dry.

Washing Your Sneakers

Next, rinse the shoes under cool, gently running water. This will help to loosen any soil on the outside of the shoes. Machine wash your shoes with a load of dark-colored towels. Use cold water and regular detergent, being sure to avoid bleach.

If you're a bit leery about throwing those expensive shoes in a washing machine, hand washes them instead. To do so, gently scrub the inside and outside of your shoes with a soft-bristled brush and mild detergent. If any scuff marks are visible, use a cleaning eraser product or a soft, white scrubbing pad.

When your shoes are clean, stuff them with white paper or white towels and hang them up in a space with plenty of airflows to dry.