We all know that feeling of slipping on fresh, clean shoes. They look polished, smell nice, and give us that extra confidence boost as we step out into the world. But let’s face it – our beloved pairs endure a lot of wear and tear, from muddy hikes to accidental spills. So how do we keep them looking their best? Fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to clean shoes.
These simple yet effective techniques will help you restore your footwear’s former glory, from removing dirt and grime to tackling stubborn stains. So grab your favourite pair (or two) and dive in! Get ready to learn how to clean shoes like a pro – no more hiding those scuffed sneakers or stained loafers at the back of your closet!
Equipment and Materials to Clean Shoes
Equipment / Tools
- 1 soft-bristled toothbrush
- 1 to 2 microfiber cloths
- 1 soft-bristled or suede brush
Materials
- 1 bottle of dishwashing liquid
- 1 bottle of distilled white vinegar
- 1 box baking soda
- 1 bottle glass cleaner (ammonia and alcohol-free)
- 1 container of cornstarch or talcum powder
Step-by-step guide on How to Clean Shoes
1. Use a Dry Brush
When cleaning your shoes, starting with a dry brush is essential. A dry brush helps to remove any loose dirt and debris from the surface of your shoes before you begin the cleaning process. Choosing a brush with soft bristles that won’t damage or scratch the material is important.
To use a dry brush, gently scrub the surface of your shoes in a back-and-forth motion. Pay extra attention to areas where dirt may be more stubborn, such as the soles or crevices. Take your time and be thorough in removing all visible dirt before moving on to the next cleaning stage.
Using a dry brush prepares your shoes for deeper cleaning and helps prolong their lifespan by preventing dirt from grinding into the material. So don’t skip this crucial first step – grab a dry brush and give those dirty shoes some TLC!
2. Make a Mild Cleaning Solution
It’s important to use a mild, gentle, yet effective cleaning solution to effectively clean your shoes. Here’s how you can make one at home:
- First, gather the necessary ingredients: warm water and a mild detergent or soap. Stay away from using bleach and other strong chemicals, because they can harm the substance of your shoes.
- Next, mix a small amount of the detergent or soap with warm water in a bucket or basin. Stir well until it creates a soapy solution.
- Now, you have your homemade mild cleaning solution ready to go! This gentle mixture will help remove dirt and stains without causing harm to your shoes. Always test the solution on an inconspicuous area before applying it all over your shoes.
This simple method keeps your shoes looking clean and fresh for longer. So remember to include making a mild cleaning solution in your shoe-cleaning routine!
3. Hand-wash the Laces
To thoroughly clean your shoes, remember the laces! Hand-washing the laces is essential in restoring their freshness and removing any dirt or stains. Here’s how to do it effectively.
First, remove the laces from your shoes. This will make it easier to clean them without getting water or soap on other parts of your footwear. Pour some warm water into a washbasin or basin and stir in a tiny bit of mild detergent. To get suds, gently stir the water.
Next, submerge the laces in the soapy water and use your fingers to rub them gently, focusing on any particularly dirty or stained areas. You can also use an old toothbrush to scrub away stubborn grime. Once satisfied with their cleanliness, rinse the laces thoroughly under running water until all traces of soap are gone.
Now that you’ve hand-washed your shoe laces, they’ll be fresh and ready for re-lacing once they dry! Remember to complete this step as it is vital in achieving clean and rejuvenated footwear.
4. Wash the Soles
Remember the soles to ensure your shoes are truly clean! This step is particularly important if walking in muddy or dirty areas. Start by rinsing off any excess dirt or debris with water. Then, mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water to create a cleaning solution.
Using a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush, gently scrub the soles of your shoes in circular motions. Pay close attention to any grooves or crevices where dirt may be trapped. After using fresh water to rinse the soap off, wipe dry using a towel.
Giving your shoe soles extra TLC will keep them looking fresh and extend their lifespan. So remember to include this crucial step in your shoe cleaning routine!
5. Wash and Blot the Uppers
Paying attention to the uppers is important to ensure your shoes are thoroughly cleaned. Use warm water and a gentle soap or detergent to prepare a mild cleaning solution. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently scrub the uppers in circular motions.
Be sure to focus on any areas with stains or dirt buildup. You can gently use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the grime for tougher stains. Once you’ve cleaned the uppers’ entire surface, rinse any remaining soap residue with clean water.
Next, take a dry towel and blot the uppers to remove excess moisture. Avoid rubbing too vigorously as this can damage delicate materials like suede or leather. Allow your shoes to air-dry completely before wearing them again.
6. Air-dry
After washing your shoes, it’s important to let them air-dry thoroughly. This step is crucial for avoiding damage and preventing any unpleasant odours. Here’s how you can properly air-dry your shoes:
First, remove any excess moisture from the inside of the shoes by stuffing them with clean, dry paper towels or newspaper. This will facilitate moisture absorption and hasten the drying process. Avoid using direct heat sources like a hairdryer or placing them in direct sunlight as this can cause shrinkage or discolouration.
Next, find a well-ventilated area to place your shoes upright. It’s best to leave them on a shoe rack or somewhere they won’t touch each other. Allowing airflow around and through the shoes helps promote faster drying.
Conclusion
Keeping your shoes clean maintains their appearance and extends their lifespan. By following these simple steps, you can easily clean your shoes and keep them looking fresh.
In conclusion, Cleaning your shoes regularly is essential for maintaining their appearance and longevity. By following these step-by-step instructions including using a dry brush, making a mild cleaning solution, hand-washing laces separately, washing soles with a scrub brush dipped in the cleaning solution, and air-drying naturally – you’ll be able to keep your favourite pairs looking clean and fresh for longer periods! So why wait? Grab those dirty sneakers now and give them some much-needed TLC!