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A great outfit can be made or broken by the state of your sneakers. A fresh, clean pair of kicks shows attention to detail, while a scuffed-up pair can ruin your entire vibe. Keeping your sneakers in top condition isn't hard, but it requires a little bit of know-how. As sneakerheads ourselves, the team at The Buy Bot put together this essential guide to keep your collection looking brand new.
1. The Pre-emptive Strike: Protect Before You Wear
The best way to clean your sneakers is to prevent them from getting dirty in the first place.
Use a Sneaker Protector Spray: Before you even wear them outside, give your new sneakers a couple of even coats of a quality protector spray. This creates an invisible barrier that repels water and stains, making them much easier to clean later on. Re-apply every few weeks.
2. The Regular Wipe-Down
Don't let dirt build up.
Daily Maintenance: After a day of wear, give your shoes a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a sneaker wipe. Pay special attention to the midsole, as this is where dirt is most visible. This five-second habit can dramatically extend the life of your sneakers.
3. The Deep Clean: Step-by-Step
For more stubborn dirt and stains, you'll need to do a deep clean.
Get Your Tools: You'll need a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great), a bowl of warm water with a few drops of mild soap or a specialized sneaker cleaning solution, and a microfiber towel.
Remove Laces & Insoles: Take out the laces and insoles and wash them separately. You can hand wash them in the same soapy water or put them in a laundry bag on a delicate cycle.
Scrub the Uppers: Dip your brush in the soapy water and gently scrub the uppers of the shoe in a circular motion. Don't use too much water.
Clean the Midsole and Outsole: Use a stiffer brush for the rubber parts of the shoe, as this is where the toughest dirt lives.
Wipe and Dry: Use the microfiber towel to wipe away all the soap and grime. Do not put your sneakers in the dryer! High heat can damage the glue and warp the materials. Let them air dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
4. Banish Bad Odors
Let Them Breathe: Don't throw your shoes in a dark closet right after you take them off. Let them air out for a bit.
Use Deodorizers: You can use specialized sneaker deodorizer balls, or a simple trick is to put a dry tea bag inside each shoe overnight to absorb moisture and odor.
Your sneakers are an investment. Taking care of them properly ensures they'll anchor your best outfits for years to come.
