Cleaning and maintaining your sneakers regularly can help them to look their best and prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips to help you get started:

The first step in maintaining your sneakers is to clean them regularly. Dust and dirt can accumulate on your sneakers’ surface, leading to discolouration and damage over time.

  • Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to remove dirt and stains from the surface of your sneakers. Be sure to clean the soles of your sneakers as well.
  • When cleaning your sneakers, try to avoid harsh chemicals or detergents and use mild soap and water or specialised sneaker cleaning products that are gentle on the materials.
  • Washing machines are great, but we’d recommend avoiding using the washing machine to clean your sneakers. Instead, stick to those soft brushes or cloths to gently clean the surface of your sneakers. “Stop being lazy and stay away from the washing machine. As appealing as it may sound, the machine will only ruin the sneakers’ materials, and can also make the stitches come loose,” warns Hybebae.

After cleaning your sneakers, it’s important to dry them properly:

  • Allow them to air dry at room temperature.
  • Avoid drying them in direct sunlight or using heat sources such as a hair dryer, as this can cause the materials to warp or shrink.
  • When you’re not wearing your sneakers, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Avoid dumping them in a corner or stacking them on top of each other, as this can cause the materials to deform.
  • Consider using shoe trees or stuffing your sneakers with tissue paper to help them maintain their shape.

Finally, opt for weather-appropriate materials. Sneaker Freaker’s recommendations are to “save that suede for sunny days with a zero percent chance of rain, and consider wearing more weatherproof materials when you see an inclement forecast. Wear the right shoe for the right situation, and there will be some happy feet.”

Maintaining and repairing sneakers

​​As much as we try to take care of our sneakers, wear and tear are often inevitable. But don’t despair. Having your sneakers fixed or repaired is a great way to extend their lifespan and keep them looking good for longer.

Going to the cobbler should be your first solution for repairs or more significant issues. A professional cobbler can repair any damage to the soles or uppers of your sneakers and can also provide services such as cleaning, conditioning, and waterproofing. Ideally, look for a cobbler or even an online service or platform specialising in repairing sneakers and using high-quality materials.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can try some DIY repairs. But be careful not to make the problem worse or damage the materials further. You can also find tutorials online to guide you through specific repairs.

Remember, taking care of your sneakers (and anything you own in general) is better for your wallet and the planet. By following the tips we’ve outlined in this article, you can extend their lifespan and do your part in creating a more sustainable future for fashion. But if you feel like your shoes are way beyond repair, consider recycling them (some brands even offer take-back schemes).

So go ahead, take care of those beloved sneakers, and step into a more sustainable future!

Book Our Services