In this blog, we will be discussing 7 ways to clean dirt, grime, and stains from your shoes, in addition ways to help keep them clean!
Do your shoes look a little bit too...dirty? Like the pair of Keds in the feature image above?
The above shoes are MY shoes, just retired them! I wore them almost 3 days a week for 3 years during my volunteer work at our Church’s vegetable garden where we raise vegetables to donate to various food pantries in our area.
This pair of Keds was a shining example of the quality of shoe that Keds continues to produce! Sorry, they are way beyond trying to clean them – LOL!
So, whether you have a pair of white sneakers that are constantly getting dirty or some brown boots that are in desperate need of a cleaning, we've got you covered.
Keep reading for more shoe cleaning information!
1. Start by giving your shoes a good brush down. A soft bristled brush is best for delicate shoes, while a stiffer brush can be used on tougher materials. This will help to remove any loose dirt and debris that is clinging to your shoes.
2. If you're dealing with a really stubborn stain, you may need to pre-treat the area with a spot cleaner. Simply apply a small amount of cleaner to a cotton ball or Q-tip and dab it onto the stain. Let it sit for a minute or two before proceeding to the next step.
3. Now it's time to get cleaning! There are a number of different ways to clean your shoes, but we think the best way is to use a shoe cleaning machine. These machines are designed to clean all types of shoes quickly and easily. Simply add your favorite cleaner to the machine and let it do its job!
4. Another great way to clean your shoes is to hand wash them in the sink. This method is best for delicate materials such as leather or suede. Fill up your sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap. Gently scrub your shoes with a soft cloth until they are clean. Rinse them off with clean water and let them air dry.
5. If you don't have time to hand wash your shoes, you can also throw them in the washing machine. Just make sure to put them in a mesh laundry bag first to prevent them from getting damaged in the cycle. Wash them on the gentle setting with cold water and let them air dry when they're done.
6. Last but not least, if you're dealing with a particularly tough stain, you may need to take your shoes to a professional cleaner. This is usually best for delicate materials such as Leather which can be easily damaged if not cleaned correctly . Look for a cleaner that specializes in cleaning shoes and drop off your dirty pair for a professional cleaning!
7. Now that you know how to clean dirt, grime, and stains from your shoes, it's time to get started! Choose one of the methods above and get cleaning! Your shoes will thank you for it!
No matter how often you clean your shoes, they always seem to get dirty. Whether it's from walking through puddles or kicking up dust, it can be tough to keep your shoes looking new.
How to Protect Your Clean or New Shoes from Getting Dirty
However, there are a few things you can do to protect your shoes from getting dirty.
First, invest in a good shoe cleaner. A quality cleaner will help to remove dirt and grime without damaging the material of your shoes.
Second, be sure to clean your shoes on a regular basis. When you clean them frequently, you're less likely to let dirt and grime build up over time.
Finally, consider using a protective spray or polish on your shoes. These products can create an invisible barrier that will help to repel dirt and water.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your shoes looking clean and new for longer.
I love the smell and feel of donning a clean pair shoes – much like the smell and feel of climbing into a newly cleaned car!
The above cleaning tips should help you to maintain the look and feel of your shoes. Make sure you read the manufacturer's cleaning instructions, or spot test the cleaner, before using anything on your shoes.
After all, shoes cost so much these days, you need to get as much wear out of them as possible!
Good luck! Happy cleaning!
Annie
If you would like information on suggested shoes to wear while kayaking - I wrote an article that you might find interesting: 5 Best Shoes for Kayaking: August 2022
