Clean Shoes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Keeping our shoes clean is essential to their longevity and helps us maintain a polished and put-together look. However, cleaning shoes can seem like a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This article is a comprehensive guide on how to clean different types of shoes using a variety of cleaning techniques and products.

Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning any type of shoe can be broken down into a few basic steps:

Remove any dirt, mud, or debris on the shoes.
Brush the shoes to remove any light stains or scuffs.
Apply the appropriate cleaning product or solution to the shoe.
Gently scrub the shoe with a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse the shoe with water.
Air dry the shoe away from direct sunlight.

Before you start cleaning, make sure to read the care label on your shoes to check for any specific cleaning instructions that may apply.

When applying any cleaning solution, test it first on an inconspicuous area of the shoe to make sure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage to the material.

For best results, use a shoe brush or toothbrush for scrubbing and let the shoes air dry. Avoid putting your shoes in the dryer or using any heat sources, such as a hairdryer, to dry them as this can damage the shoes.

Product Reviews

There are many shoe cleaning products available on the market, however, some are more effective than others. Here are some of the best shoe cleaning products and their pros and cons:

Jason Markk Premium Shoe Cleaner: This is an all-purpose cleaner that works well on most types of shoes. It’s gentle enough to use on delicate materials and effectively removes dirt and stains. However, it can be pricy compared to other options.
Angelus Easy Cleaner: This is another all-purpose cleaner that is very effective at removing stains and scuffs. It’s also affordable and easy to use. However, it has a strong odor so be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area.
Reshoevn8r Sneaker and Shoe Cleaning Kit: This kit includes everything needed to clean shoes and is formulated to clean dirt and stains from a range of materials. However, it can be time-consuming to use and may not be as effective on really tough stains.
Crep Protect Cure Cleaning Kit: This kit includes a cleaning solution, brush, and microfiber cloth. It’s effective at removing dirt and stains and is suitable for all types of shoes. However, it’s on the pricier side compared to other options.
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser: This household product is surprisingly effective at removing scuffs and stains from shoes. However, it should be used sparingly and only on hard-wearing materials as it can damage delicate fabrics or finishes.

When choosing a product, consider both the type of material your shoes are made of and the type of stain you’re trying to remove.

Different Cleaning Techniques

There are different cleaning techniques for specific types of shoes. Here are some tips you can use to clean different types of shoes:

Leather Shoes

Leather shoes require special care as they are prone to cracking and drying out if not cleaned properly. Here’s the best way to clean leather shoes:

Remove any dirt and stains with a soft brush or cloth.
Apply a leather cleaner to a cloth or sponge.
Gently rub the shoe with the dampened cloth or sponge.
Rinse the shoe with water and dry with a soft cloth.
Apply a leather conditioner to the shoe to keep it moisturized and supple.

Be sure to use a cleaner and conditioner that is formulated for leather. Avoid using vinegar or alcohol-based cleaners as they can damage the leather.

Suede Shoes

Suede shoes require a gentler touch as they are delicate and can be easily damaged. Here’s how to clean suede shoes:

Remove any dirt or debris with a soft brush or suede eraser.
Use a suede cleaning solution and apply it to the stains.
Gently rub the stains with a soft brush or sponge.
Let the shoe dry naturally and then brush it to restore the nap.

Be sure to test any cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area of the shoe to avoid any discoloration or damage to the material.

Canvas Shoes

Canvas shoes are relatively easy to clean. Here’s how to do it:

Remove any dirt and stains with a soft brush or cloth.
Use a canvas cleaner or mild detergent mixed with warm water.
Gently scrub the shoe with a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse the shoe with water and dry with a cloth.

Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents on canvas shoes as they can cause discoloration.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the most well-intentioned shoe cleaning routine can go wrong. Here are some of the common mistakes people make when cleaning shoes, and how to avoid them:

Using too much water: Excessive water can cause damage to your shoes. Only use enough water to clean the shoes, and avoid soaking them.
Using a hard-bristled brush: Hard-bristled brushes can cause damage to the shoe’s surface. Use a soft-bristled brush or a sponge instead.
Using the wrong cleaning product: Different materials require different cleaning products. Be sure to use the appropriate cleaning product for your shoe’s material to avoid damage to the shoe.
Not drying shoes properly: Drying shoes in direct sunlight or using heat sources can result in shrinkage or damage to the shoe’s material. Dry your shoes away from direct sunlight and heat sources and make sure they’re completely dry before wearing them again.

DIY Cleaning Techniques

If you don’t have a specific shoe cleaner or just want to try a more natural approach, you can use household items to clean your shoes. Here are some DIY cleaning techniques:

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar to form a paste. Apply the paste to the shoes and scrub with a soft brush. Let the shoes dry before brushing off any remaining paste.

Lemon Juice

Mix lemon juice and water and apply the solution to the shoes. Scrub with a soft brush and let the shoes dry.

Tea Tree Oil

Mix a drop or two of tea tree oil with water to make a solution. Apply the solution to the shoes and scrub with a soft brush. Let the shoes dry.

These DIY methods work best on lighter stains and for regular maintenance. Avoid using them on delicate materials like suede as they can cause discoloration or damage.

Conclusion

Cleaning your shoes regularly is the key to maintaining their longevity and keeping them looking new. By following the approaches and techniques outlined in this article, you can ensure that your shoes look their best for years to come. Remember to always test any cleaning solutions first, avoid using excessive water or hard-bristled brushes, and let your shoes dry completely before wearing them again.