If your sneakers are extremely dirty but you don’t want to replace them, there are ways to get them back into shape, if not back to their fresh-out-of-the-shoebox glory days. But with the right tools and materials, you can get close. These are the best ways to restore and revitalize a pair of really gross kicks.
Use a corkscrew to remove mud from crevices
Before getting to the heart of the matter, start with the big picture: remove as much mud as possible. One of the best tools for cleaning mud from the bottom of your sneakers is a corkscrew. Its fine tip allows you to really dig in there and scratch covered in mud out of tight crevices, and its metal build will keep it from cracking or breaking As toothpick orother disposable item.
Use a melamine sponge on rubber soles
A melamine sponge (which is the same as branded magic eraser) is more dense tHan a regular sponge, with tiny pores that give it a quality of the sandpaper. For best results, first wipe off large chunks of mud with a paper towel or rag, then wet the melamine sponge and scrub gently. on all discolored spots on rubber soles. Try to avoid the sneaker cloth if possible, to avoid scratches. It is also a good idea to work over a trash can, to catch the debris of the crumbling sponge.
Wash or replace your laces
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to revitalize any pair of shoes is to replace the laces. You box throw your laces in the washing machine if you wish (put them in a mesh bag first to prevent them from getting tangled)but avoid the clothes dryer, as the heat could melt the aiguillettes.
Pay attention to the material
Not all sneakerss are created equal. If you’re going to do a deep clean, you’ll want to use products that will work well with your basketballs Material. (Self Magazine has a complete guide for what to use when.)
For mesh sneakers: youUse a dry brush to remove any excess dirt. Mmix baking soda and vinegar and apply it on the soiled locate and let rest for about 15 minutes. Then gscrub gently for several minutes with a soft brush, then wipe with a soft cloth, wet cloth. Leave the sneakers air dry.
For synthetic leather sneakers: Sdip a cloth in warm water and mild laundry detergent and wipe the dirty areas. So, gently scrub the area with a brush for one minute, working in the detergent, before wiping the sneakers with a soft, damp cloth cloth to remove any detergent residue. Leave the sneakers air dry.
For mesh sneakers: Aavoid both brushing and laundry detergent (as the chemicals can be too harsh on the fabric). In place, use a soft cloth and a bar of mild bath soap. Soak the cloth in cold water and use it to rub gently soap in stains. Once the stains are removedwipe away any remaining soap with a damp cloth towel and let them air dry.
For canvas sneakers: youUse a toothbrush and a cleansing paste made from baking soda and warm water. Dip the toothbrush in the mixture and scrub the sneakers until they are clean. Let sneakers dry with cleaning mixture always on. Once dry, wipe away all that remains hardened baking soda deposits with a damp cloth.
Put baby powder or baking soda in it overnight
shaking a dash of baby powder or baking soda in each sneaker the night will allow the product to absorb the mold smells left by accumulated humidity. (Jjust one of many uses for baby powder that do not involve your baby.) Do it once in a while to keep your sneakers smell fresher, even if they haven’t been covered in mud recently.