How to Clean and Care for Your Gym Shoes | Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Gym shoes are an essential part of any fitness routine. They provide support and cushioning to keep you comfortable while you work out, and they also protect your feet from injury. But after weeks or months of sweat, dirt, and wear and tear, your gym shoes can start to look and smell less than ideal. That’s why it’s important to know how to properly clean and care for them.

Cleaning your gym shoes regularly can extend their lifespan and prevent odors from developing. It can also help you stay healthy by reducing your exposure to germs and bacteria. In this article, we’ll explore the steps you need to take to properly wash and care for your gym shoes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Handwashing Gym Shoes

Handwashing is the safest and most effective way to clean your gym shoes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Gather Supplies

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:

• Mild detergent
• Soft brush or toothbrush
• Soft cloth
• Towel

Preparing the Shoes

Start by removing the laces and any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the outside of the shoe. You can use a soft brush or toothbrush to get into any crevices or seams.

Washing the Shoes

Fill a sink or bucket with warm water, then add a small amount of mild detergent. Soak the shoes in the mixture for about 10 minutes, then scrub the fabric and soles with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Drying the Shoes

Once you’ve finished washing the shoes, remove any excess water with a towel. Then, set them aside in a cool, dry place and let them air dry overnight.

How to Clean Gym Shoes in the Washing Machine

If you don’t have time to handwash your gym shoes, you can also clean them in the washing machine. Here’s what you need to do:

Preparing the Shoes

Remove the laces and any dirt or debris from the outside of the shoe. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to get into any crevices or seams.

Selecting Settings and Detergent

Choose the delicate cycle on your washing machine and use a mild detergent. If possible, use a low-suds detergent that’s specifically designed for washing machines.

Washing the Shoes

Place the shoes in the washer and let the cycle run. Once it’s finished, remove the shoes and inspect them for any signs of damage.

Drying the Shoes

Once the shoes are washed, remove any excess water with a towel. Then, set them aside in a cool, dry place and let them air dry overnight.

Tips for Deep Cleaning Your Gym Shoes

To keep your gym shoes looking and smelling fresh, it’s important to give them a deep clean every now and then. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Removing Stubborn Stains

If you have any stubborn stains on your gym shoes, you can use a combination of baking soda and white vinegar to remove them. Simply mix equal parts of each in a bowl, then apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Afterward, wipe away the mixture with a damp cloth.

Cleaning the Laces

Your laces can also accumulate dirt and grime over time. To clean them, simply soak them in a solution of warm water and mild detergent for 15 minutes, then rinse them off with cold water. For tougher stains, you can use a soft brush to scrub them clean.

Cleaning the Soles

The soles of your gym shoes can become covered in dirt and grime, which can cause them to look dull and discolored. To remove this buildup, mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar in a bowl. Dip a soft brush into the mixture and use it to scrub the soles until they’re clean.

The Best Ways to Sanitize and Deodorize Your Gym Shoes

Regularly sanitizing and deodorizing your gym shoes can help keep them smelling fresh and reduce your risk of exposure to germs and bacteria. Here are a few methods you can use:

Using Natural Deodorizers

Natural deodorizers like baking soda and activated charcoal can help absorb odors and keep your gym shoes smelling fresh. Sprinkle either one inside the shoes and let it sit overnight before shaking it out in the morning.

Using Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great natural deodorizer that can help absorb odors and keep your gym shoes smelling fresh. Sprinkle some inside the shoes and let it sit overnight before shaking it out in the morning.

Using Essential Oils

Essential oils like lavender and tea tree oil can help eliminate odors and leave your gym shoes smelling great. Add a few drops of the oil to a cotton ball, then place it inside the shoe and let it sit overnight.

How to Restore and Revive Old or Smelly Gym Shoes

If your gym shoes are starting to look worn or smell bad, you can use a few simple methods to restore them and make them look and smell like new again. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Cleaning with Vinegar

Vinegar is great for removing dirt, grime, and odors from gym shoes. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray the solution onto the shoes and let it sit for 15 minutes. Afterward, wipe away the mixture with a damp cloth.

Applying Leather Conditioner

Leather gym shoes can benefit from occasional conditioning. Choose a leather conditioner that’s specifically designed for shoes and apply it to the leather to help keep it looking good and prevent it from cracking or drying out.

Adding Insoles

If your gym shoes are starting to feel worn or uncomfortable, consider adding insoles to help cushion and support your feet. Look for insoles that are specifically designed for gym shoes, as they will provide the best fit and comfort.

Conclusion

Cleaning and caring for your gym shoes is an important part of keeping them in good condition and making sure they last as long as possible. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your gym shoes look and smell great for years to come.