How to Clean Sneakers: A Complete Care Guide for Every Material

A great pair of sneakers is an investment — and how you clean them determines whether they look fresh for years or fall apart after one rainy season. The problem is that most people clean every pair the same way, which is exactly how suede gets ruined and white midsoles turn yellow. Here’s how to do it properly, material by material.

Before You Start: The Basics

Always remove the laces and insoles before cleaning — they trap most of the dirt and are far easier to clean separately. Never put sneakers in the washing machine or dryer; heat and agitation break down glue and foam cushioning over time, even on “durable” pairs.

Cleaning Mesh and Knit Uppers

Mesh and knit sneakers (common on running-inspired silhouettes) are the easiest to clean but also the most delicate against stiff brushes.

1. Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water.
2. Use a soft-bristle brush to gently work the solution into the fabric in small circles.
3. Wipe away excess suds with a damp microfibre cloth.
4. Stuff with paper towel to hold shape, and air-dry away from direct sunlight or heat.

Cleaning Suede

Suede needs to stay away from water almost entirely.

1. Let any mud or dirt dry completely first — never scrub wet suede.
2. Use a dedicated suede brush (brass or crepe) to lift dirt and restore the nap, brushing in one direction.
3. For stains, a suede eraser works better than any liquid cleaner.
4. Finish with a suede protector spray to guard against future rain and stains.

Cleaning Leather

Leather is the most forgiving material, but it still needs the right products.

1. Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt.
2. Apply a small amount of leather cleaner with a soft cloth, working in circular motions.
3. Let it dry naturally, then apply a leather conditioner to prevent cracking.

Keeping Midsoles White

Yellowing midsoles are usually caused by UV exposure and oxidation, not just dirt.

1. Scrub gently with a soft brush and a baking-soda-and-water paste.
2. For stubborn stains, a small amount of diluted hydrogen peroxide works — apply, wait 10 minutes, then rinse and dry.
3. Store sneakers away from direct sunlight when not in use to slow future yellowing.

Drying — The Step Most People Get Wrong

Never use direct heat (radiators, hairdryers, direct sun) to speed up drying. It’s the single biggest cause of cracked glue, warped soles and shrunk uppers. Air-drying at room temperature, stuffed with paper towel, is always the safer route — it just takes a bit more patience.

Final Tip: Prevention Beats Cleaning

A water-and-stain repellent spray applied to a brand-new pair (mesh, suede or leather) before the first wear will save you most of the cleaning effort down the line.

Looking for your next pair to take care of? Explore New Balance, Nike, Adidas, Asics and more at Cecile Milan.