Want your favorite kicks to last a long time? You better start getting used to the habit of cleaning it regularly. If you’re unsure where to start, Sports Central is here to help! Take note of these top cleaning tips so your sneakers can look just like it’s fresh out of the box. Besides, keeping your shoes dirt-free isn’t rocket science as long as you keep these tips in mind:

Choose the proper cleaning solutions

Shoes are made with different materials. Thus, cleaning solutions are not one size fits all. Some sneaker fabrics are more sensitive and prone to damage to certain chemicals. So, before buying any sneaker cleaning products, make sure it’s appropriate and safe to use. 

If you want to save up, baking soda, vinegar, and mild laundry detergent are affordable alternatives you can find at home. These are tested and proven to work wonders on your shoes.

Gather your cleaning tools

Get the following tools to completely scrub off the dirt and stain from your favorite sneakers:

• A handful of cloth
• Toothbrushes (better if you both have hard-bristled and soft-bristled ones)
• Different sponge sizes
• Microfiber towels (best used for deep cleaning)

Follow this step-by-step cleaning process

Step 1. Start with the shoelaces. Remove the laces and soak them in warm water with a tablespoon amount of laundry detergent. The soaking process will soften hard dirt and stains so they’re easy to remove. After 15 minutes, use a toothbrush to gently remove the remaining stains and dirt. Rinse with cold water, then hang them to dry.

Step 2. Get rid of loose surface dirt. Knock the bottom of your sneakers against each other to dust off your rubber outsole. Wipe down the top of your sneakers with a dry cloth or towel. If your shoe has a mesh upper, use a dry toothbrush to remove the loose dirt.

Step 3. Prepare different homemade cleaning solutions for different shoe materials:

• Mesh - one part baking soda and one part vinegar
• Canvas - one part baking soda and one part warm water
• Synthetic leather - one part mild laundry detergent and one part warm water

Step 4. Apply the solution. Depending on the material, apply the solutions indicated above using a sponge. Allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. 

Step 5. Gently remove dirt and stains. Avoid damaging your shoes by hard scrubbing. Using a toothbrush gently apply pressure and scrub until stains are removed. Finish this step by removing the excess dirt with a wet microfiber towel.

Step 6. Air dry your shoes to maintain the structure and integrity of your sneakers. Once they’re dry, store them in a dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents the growth of mold on your sneakers.

Additional cleaning tips

You can restore the crisp, clean white color of your white canvas sneakers using non-gel whitening toothpaste. Apply it using a toothbrush, then leave it on for 10-15 minutes. After that, wipe off the toothpaste with a damp towel.

Sneakers with knit materials should be handled carefully. You can clean them by using a soft wet cloth and a mild bar soap. Avoid harsh chemicals at all costs as knits are fragile.

Get some fresh kicks from the best online shoe store in the Philippines

Now that you know how to properly take care of your shoes, reward yourself with new sneakers to add to your collection. Take your pick from Adidas, New Balance, or Under Armour! Whether you need basketball shoes, running shoes, or training activewear, these featured brands have got you covered. 

Freshen up your fitness and athleisure wardrobe with the extensive range of sneakers for men and women at Sports Central Philippines!