Grimy white tennis shoes got you down? Don’t worry, sneakerheads! This guide is your ultimate weapon against dirt, stains, and despair. Dive deep into the world of how to Clean Tennis Shoes, exploring both washing machine warriors and handwashing heroes. Discover the secrets to restoring their former glory, whether they’re made of canvas, leather, mesh, or suede with soles cleaner. Learn how to banish grass stains, conquer bloodstains, and keep your kicks fresh and happy. Ready to transform your white tennis shoes back into dazzling showstoppers? Let’s go!
Clean Tennis Shoes in Washing Machine.
Cleaning your tennis shoes using the washing machine is a convenient way to get them looking fresh again. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Check the label on your shoes for washing instructions – most sneakers are machine-friendly, but double-check! If they say “hand wash only,” stick to handwashing. For cleaning leather shoes specifically, skip the machine and opt for handwashing with gentle saddle soap to avoid water damage.
Step 2: Start by using a scrub brush to remove any visible dirt. Do this over a trash can or outside to avoid making a mess. If the dirt is wet, let it dry first as dry dirt comes off more easily.
Step 3: Take out the laces and treat any dirty areas with laundry detergent. Rub a bit of detergent into the dirty spots to help them come clean. Put the laces in a mesh bag to keep them separate during the wash.
Step 4: Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag along with some towels. This prevents them from banging around too much in the machine, which could damage them.
Step 5: Run a gentle cycle with cool water and normal detergent. Avoid using hot water as it can damage your shoes. Opt for the gentle cycle if your machine has the option.
Step 6: Once the wash is done, let your shoes air dry. Avoid using a dryer or any direct heat source as it can warp the shoes. Remove the insoles if possible to speed up drying time.
Step 7: Once everything is completely dry, reassemble your shoes by putting the insoles back in and lacing them up. It may take some time for them to dry fully, so be patient.
Following these steps will help keep your tennis shoes clean and ready for your next adventure on the court or the streets.
Washing Tennis shoes by Hand
Here are some different ways to clean your Tennis shoes by hands:
How to Clean White Canvas Shoes With a Magic Eraser
Cleaning your sneakers has never been easier, thanks to Mr. Clean®! With just two simple steps, you can keep your favorite kicks looking fresh and ready to rock.
STEP ONE: ADD WATER.
Start by wetting your Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Extra Durable. This activates the micro-scrubbers inside, getting them ready to tackle even the toughest stains. Give it a good squeeze to remove any excess water, and you’re all set for a powerful cleaning experience.
STEP TWO: SWIPE AWAY!
Now, it’s time to put the Magic Eraser to work. Swipe it across your sneakers, focusing on areas like the sole, toe box, eyelets, and wedge where dirt and scuffs tend to accumulate. You’ll be amazed at how quickly the mess disappears, leaving your sneakers looking almost like new.
Whether you have one favorite pair or a whole collection of kicks, Mr. Clean’s got you covered. His Magic Eraser Extra Durable is 50 percent stronger than the original, making it perfect for tackling even the toughest stains. Plus, its contoured shape fits comfortably in your hand, making cleaning a breeze.
So say goodbye to scuffs and stuck-on dirt, and hello to sneakers that look as good as they make you feel. Thanks to Mr. Clean, you’re ready to step out in style.
How to Clean White Canvas Shoes With Baking Soda and Vinegar
Here’s a simple and effective way to clean your shoes using baking soda and vinegar to restore their white brilliance:
Ingredients you’ll need:
1 tablespoon of baking soda
1 tablespoon of white vinegar
1 tablespoon of hot water
Combine these ingredients in a small bowl or measuring cup to create a paste-like mixture.
Now, here’s what you do:
Using an old toothbrush, apply the paste directly onto the stains on your shoes. Gently scrub in a circular motion, covering the entire surface of the shoe. Don’t forget to soak the laces in any remaining solution.
Once your shoes are fully covered, place them outside in bright sunlight for 3-4 hours. The sun helps enhance the whitening process.
After the paste has dried completely, clap the shoes together over a trashcan to remove the dried paste. Then, use a dry toothbrush or scrub brush to get rid of any remaining residue.
This baking soda and vinegar solution is safe for leather, canvas, and even white vinyl, but remember to use a separate cleaning method for suede shoes like a suede brush
With this simple method, your tennis shoes will look fresh and clean, ready for your next adventure on the court or the streets.
Clean Tennis Shoes With Toothpaste
Let’s get those tennis shoes sparkling clean with toothpaste! Here’s a simple guide broken down into easy steps:
How to Clean Tennis Shoes With Toothpaste
Part 1: Getting Ready to Clean
Get the Right Toothpaste
- Make sure to use white non-gel toothpaste. Gel toothpaste won’t do the job well and might even stain your shoes, especially if they’re white.
- Grab an old or inexpensive toothbrush dedicated to cleaning shoes. No need to use your fancy toothbrush for this task!
Test it Out
- Before diving in, test a small spot on one of your shoes with the toothpaste. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then wipe it with a damp cloth. If there’s no staining, you’re good to go!
Part 2: Scrubbing with a Toothbrush
Apply Toothpaste
- Put a small amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush. You don’t need a lot—about half of what you’d use for brushing your teeth should do the trick.
Get Scrubbing
- Use the toothbrush to scrub your shoes. Adjust the pressure based on your shoes’ color, material, and how dirty they are. For dark or very dirty shoes, you can scrub harder. For cleaning white shoes, be gentle to avoid scratching them.
- Focus on any especially dirty spots, scrubbing back and forth to loosen the dirt.
Let it Sit
- Leave the toothpaste on your shoes for about 10 minutes. This gives it time to soak into the material and make the dirt easier to remove.
Wipe it Down
- After 10 minutes, grab a damp towel and wipe the toothpaste off your shoes. Use firm pressure to remove as much toothpaste as possible.
- If there are still stubborn stains, repeat the process until your shoes are looking fresh and clean.
With these simple steps, your tennis shoes will be looking as good as new in no time, all thanks to toothpaste!
Learn how to clean your tennis shoes using laundry detergent for a fresh look!
Brush Away Dirt
- Mesh shoes need gentle care. Use a dry, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush off any dirt from the outside of your shoes. Be careful not to snag the delicate fabric.
Clean with Soapy Water
- Mix a small amount of liquid laundry detergent with warm water in a bowl to create a soapy solution. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently apply it to the shoes using circular motions.
- Rinse the cloth frequently with warm water to prevent spreading dirt. For tough stains, like grass or ground-in dirt, use the toothbrush with the soapy water or a bleach pen for extra scrubbing power.
Rinse and Dry
- Avoid soaking your mesh shoes in water as it can damage them. Instead, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the shoes.
- To maintain their shape, stuff your shoes with white paper towels. Then, let them air-dry completely before wearing them again.
By following these simple steps, your tennis shoes will look as good as new, ready for your next adventure on or off the court!
Clean Tennis Shoes With Dish Soap Water:
Here’s a quick and easy way to clean your tennis shoes with soapy water:
- Remove Dirt: Untie shoelaces and brush away loose dirt.
- Mix Soapy Water: Combine a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
- Gently Scrub: Use a soft brush or cloth to clean shoes with the soapy solution.
- Rinse and Dry: Wipe shoes with plain water, then air dry at room temperature.
Here’s a simple guide to treating stains and scuff marks on your tennis shoes:
Treating Stains and Scuff Marks on Tennis Shoes:
Here’s a simple guide to treating stains and scuff marks on your tennis shoes:
1. Remove Stubborn Grime and Stains:
- If stains or grime persist after regular cleaning, create a thick paste by mixing baking soda with water.
- Apply the paste to the affected areas of the shoe, gently scrubbing with a soft brush.
- Allow the paste to dry, then brush off as much residue as possible.
- Finally, wipe the shoes with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.
2. Spot-Treat with a Bleach Pen:
- To clean stubborn stains on canvas shoes specifically, a bleach pen can be your secret weapon for spot-treating success. But remember, use it cautiously and only on white materials!
- Simply apply the bleach pen directly to the affected areas, focusing on the stains or discoloration.
- Allow the bleach to work for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a damp cloth.
With these simple steps, you can effectively tackle stains and scuff marks, keeping your tennis shoes looking clean and fresh for your next game!
How Often to Wash Tennis and Athletic Shoes
How often should you clean your shoes? Well, it depends on a few things,” explains Fabiana Rigamonti, head of design at Aerosoles. “If you want to keep them looking good, I’d say give them a clean every two weeks or whenever they start to look dirty.”
Rigamonti emphasizes that the frequency of cleaning also depends on how often you wear the shoes and what they’re made of. For example, if you wear the same pair daily, whether for work or the gym, you might need to clean them more often.
Board-certified podiatrist Mohammad Rimawi suggests, “If your shoes are getting a lot of daily wear, like for work or exercising, you might find yourself cleaning them every two to four weeks.”
So, whether it’s every two weeks or every month, keeping your shoes clean is key to maintaining their appearance and longevity.
Tips for Washing Tennis Shoes
Here are some helpful tips for washing tennis shoes:
1. Disinfect your shoes: If you’re worried about bacteria or athlete’s foot fungus, you can disinfect your shoes while washing them. Pine oil disinfectants are safe for fabrics and work well in hot or warm water. Just add the disinfectant at the start of the wash cycle.
2. Consider phenolic disinfectants: Products like Lysol can also help disinfect your shoes. You can add them to either the wash or rinse cycle. If you choose to add them, set the water temperature to warm.
3. Speed up drying with a fan: After washing your shoes, use a circulating fan to help them dry faster. This can be especially handy if you’re in a hurry to wear them again.
By following these tips, you can keep your tennis shoes clean and fresh without risking damage or compromising on hygiene.
Storing Tennis and Athletic Shoes
To properly store your tennis and athletic shoes, opt for a shoebox, plastic tub, or drawstring shoe bag to prevent dust buildup. Remember to clean your sneakers beforehand to remove any dirt or stains, as this can help prevent yellowing over time.
By following these steps, you can keep your shoes in good condition and ready to wear whenever you need them.
Tennis and Athletic Shoes Care and Repairs
When caring for your tennis and athletic shoes, use shoe glue to repair detached soles, ensuring you let them dry for at least 24 hours. However, if you encounter rips or tears, they’re often challenging to fix and may require replacement.