How to Clean 5 Different Types of Shoes

Cleaning shoes is an art, and like any art, it takes practice to get good at it. Depending on the type of shoes you’re dealing with, the cleaning process can vary greatly.

Here’s a quick guide on how to clean five different types of shoes:

Sneakers

For sneakers, start by removing the laces and giving them a good wash in the sink with some soap. Next, use a toothbrush or other soft-bristled brush to clean away any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.

Once you’ve done that, apply a small amount of cleaner to another brush and scrub away any remaining stains. Finally, rinse the shoes off with clean water and let them air dry. If you’re cleaning more difficult things like paint stains, it’ll depend on the type of paint you need to remove.

When it comes to sneakers, it’s also important to regularly clean the inside of the shoe to prevent odors. This can be done by sprinkling some baking soda inside and letting it sit overnight. In the morning, just vacuum up the baking soda and your shoes should be good as new.

Leather Shoes

For leather shoes, start by removing any caked-on dirt with a soft brush. Next, apply a small amount of cleaner to a cloth and wipe down the entire surface of the shoe. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas that seem particularly dirty or stained.

Once you’ve gone over the entire shoe, rinse it off with clean water and let it air dry. You may need to repeat this process a few times for particularly stubborn stains.

Suede Shoes

Suede shoes can be tricky to clean because you don’t want to damage the delicate material. Start by using a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe. Next, use a suede eraser to rub away any remaining stains.

If the eraser doesn’t seem to be doing the trick, you can try applying a small amount of cleaner to a cloth and wiping down the affected areas. Just be sure to test the cleaner on an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it won’t damage the suede.

Once you’re finished cleaning, let the shoes air dry and then brush them with a suede brush to restore the nap.

Canvas Shoes

Canvas shoes are relatively easy to clean – start by removing any laces and giving them a good wash in the sink with some soap. Next, use a toothbrush or other soft-bristled brush to clean away any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.

Once you’ve done that, apply a small amount of cleaner to another brush and scrub away any remaining stains. Finally, rinse the shoes off with clean water and let them air dry.

Patent Leather Shoes

Patent leather shoes can be cleaned using the same methods as leather shoes. Start by removing any caked-on dirt with a soft brush. Next, apply a small amount of cleaner to a cloth and wipe down the entire surface of the shoe. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas that seem particularly dirty or stained.

Once you’ve gone over the entire shoe, rinse it off with clean water and let it air dry. You may need to repeat this process a few times for particularly stubborn stains.

Products for Cleaning Shoes

There are a variety of different products you can use to clean your shoes, including:

• Shoe cleaner – This is a specially formulated cleaner that’s designed to remove dirt and stains from shoes. You can find shoe cleaner at most stores that sell cleaning supplies.

• All-purpose cleaner – You can also use an all-purpose cleaner like vinegar or dish soap to clean your shoes. Just be sure to dilute the cleaner with water so it doesn’t damage the material.

• Baking soda – Baking soda can be used as a natural alternative to shoe cleaner. Just make a paste out of baking soda and water and apply it to the surface of the shoe. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it away with a brush.

There are also a variety of different brushes you can use to clean your shoes, including:

• Soft-bristled brush – This type of brush is ideal for removing dirt and debris from the surface of the shoe.

• Toothbrush – A toothbrush can be used to reach small crevices and corners that a regular brush can’t. Just be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush so you don’t damage the material.

• Nylon scrub brush – A nylon scrub brush can be used to remove stubborn stains from the surface of the shoe. Just be sure not to scrub too hard or you could damage the material.

Now that you know how to clean your shoes, you can keep them looking their best for years to come. Just be sure to follow these tips and you’ll have no problem keeping your shoes looking like new.

Things to Watch Out for When Cleaning Shoes

Let’s now take a look at some of the things you need to watch out for when cleaning shoes:

1. Avoid using harsh chemicals – Harsh chemicals can damage the material of your shoes and make them more susceptible to staining. Stick to mild cleaners like dish soap or vinegar and avoid using harsh chemicals whenever possible.

2. Don’t soak your shoes – Soaking your shoes in water can damage the material and cause them to shrink. If you need to clean them, use a damp cloth instead of soaking them in water.

3. Let them air dry – Air drying is always the best option when it comes to drying your shoes. Using a hair dryer or other heat source can damage the material and cause them to discolor.

4. Be careful with suede – Suede is a delicate material that’s easy to damage. Avoid using harsh cleaners or scrubbing too hard when cleaning suede shoes.

5. Don’t forget the laces – Your laces can often be just as dirty as your shoes. Be sure to clean them whenever you clean your shoes and replace them if they’re worn out.

By following these tips, you can keep your shoes looking their best for years to come. Just remember to take your time and be careful when cleaning them and you’ll have no problem keeping them in tip-top shape.