Tennis shoes take on a lot: from workouts to walks and casual outings. So, it’s no surprise they can get pretty grubby over time. Knowing how to wash tennis shoes is essential not just to keep them looking sharp but also to make them last longer. Whether your sneakers are lightly dirty or caked in mud, there’s a washing method that’ll get them looking good as new.
Why You Should Clean Your Tennis Shoes Regularly
Keeping your tennis shoes clean goes beyond just looking good. Clean shoes also:
Reduce unpleasant odors
Improve their lifespan
Prevent staining from becoming permanent
Enhance comfort and performance by keeping the materials in shape
Materials Needed for Washing Tennis Shoes
Before you dive into the cleaning process, gather a few essential supplies:
Soft brush or toothbrush
Mild detergent or dish soap
Baking soda
Mesh laundry bag (for machine washing)
Towels
Soft cloths
Warm water
Preparing Your Shoes for Washing
Proper preparation makes a huge difference in cleaning results. Here’s how to get started:
Remove the Laces and Insoles – These should be cleaned separately.
Brush Off Loose Dirt – Use a soft brush or cloth to remove surface dirt.
Check the Material – Different materials need different cleaning approaches.
Hand-Washing Tennis Shoes
If you’re nervous about tossing your shoes in the washer, hand washing is a safe bet. Here’s a quick guide:
Fill a bucket with warm water and a little mild detergent.
Dip a soft brush in the soapy water and scrub each part of the shoe.
Use a cloth to wipe away any dirt and excess soap.
Rinse with clean water, making sure not to soak the shoes.
Air dry by stuffing shoes with paper towels to retain their shape.
Tip: For delicate materials like leather, use a specialty cleaner instead of general detergent.
How to Wash Tennis Shoes in the Washing Machine
If your shoes are machine washable, here’s the best way to go about it:
Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them.
Add a small amount of mild detergent to the machine.
Choose a cold water setting and a gentle cycle.
Toss in a few towels to balance the load and minimize noise.
Once the cycle finishes, take them out immediately and let them air dry.
Pro Tip: Never use bleach on your shoes as it can cause discoloration.
Spot Cleaning for Quick Refreshes
For minor scuffs and stains, spot cleaning can be the perfect quick fix:
Dampen a cloth with warm water and a little mild detergent.
Gently rub the stain until it lifts.
Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
Drying Your Tennis Shoes Properly
To prevent warping and shrinking, avoid the dryer. Instead:
Air dry in a well-ventilated area
Use paper towels or dry cloths to help absorb excess moisture
Never place them in direct sunlight as it can cause fading
How Often Should You Wash Your Tennis Shoes?
Washing frequency depends on how often you wear your shoes and what you’re using them for. A good rule of thumb is:
Casual wear – Every 3-4 weeks
Gym or sports – Every 2-3 weeks, or as needed if they’re noticeably dirty or smelly
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Tennis Shoes
To keep your shoes in good shape, avoid these common pitfalls:
Skipping the step of removing laces and insoles
Using bleach or harsh chemicals
Putting them in the dryer
Using hot water in the washing machine
Cleaning Different Types of Tennis Shoes
Mesh Shoes
Mesh materials are lightweight but prone to dirt. A soft brush and gentle detergent will work wonders.
Leather Shoes
For leather, use a mild soap and avoid soaking. Specialty leather cleaner can also be effective.
Canvas Shoes
Canvas can handle a bit more scrubbing, but avoid bleach to prevent color fading.
How to Deal with Odors in Tennis Shoes
Keep your shoes fresh with these tricks:
Sprinkle baking soda inside and let it sit overnight, then shake it out.
Place a dryer sheet in each shoe when storing them.
Use specialized shoe deodorizing sprays when necessary.
Stain Removal Tips for Stubborn Marks
Sometimes, regular washing isn’t enough for tough stains. Here’s how to handle the most common ones:
Grass Stains: Use a small amount of white vinegar mixed with water.
Mud: Let it dry first, then brush off as much as possible before washing.
Oil Stains: Apply a bit of baking soda to absorb oil before cleaning.
Pro Tips for Keeping Tennis Shoes Clean Longer
Preventative care goes a long way:
Waterproof your shoes if you know they’ll be exposed to wet conditions.
Wipe them down after each use.
Store them in a clean, dry area with good airflow.
FAQs
1. How do I prevent my tennis shoes from smelling?
Try adding baking soda inside your shoes overnight, or use deodorizing sprays.
2. Can I put my shoes in the dryer?
It’s best to avoid the dryer. Instead, air dry them to prevent damage.
3. How do I keep white shoes from turning yellow?
Avoid direct sunlight when drying, and use a mild detergent to prevent discoloration.
4. Is it safe to wash tennis shoes in the machine every time?
While it’s generally okay, hand washing is gentler and better for delicate materials.
5. What’s the best way to wash tennis shoes without a machine?
Hand washing with a mild detergent and a soft brush works well for most shoes.
Conclusion
Knowing how to wash tennis shoes not only keeps them looking great but extends their life. Whether you hand wash or throw them in the machine, with these tips, your shoes will be as clean and fresh as when you first bought them.
