How To Properly Clean Your Running Shoes.

Absolutely DO NOT PUT YOUR RUNNING SHOES IN THE WASHING MACHINE AND DRYER!

I know it can seem tempting but don’t. Quality, technical running shoes are made to withstand moisture – from sweat to rain and a wrong-turn-river crossing in the trails. They are glued together; water, chlorine and detergents dissolve adhesives… Running shoes are just not made to withstand that kind of a beating for a 60minute cycle. Let alone heating them, which will no doubt end in a twisted, mangled mess that feel completely different when you next slip them on.

Instead, we recommend hand washing running shoes, for your shoes and the washing machine’s own safety.

Buy some brushes

Useful for dried mud, and effortless brush off after a run. Getting the top layer off means mud stains won’t sit in your mesh or material upper of the shoe and discolour it forevermore (who wants that?!) investing in a smaller brush, like a toothbrush will help keep those lugs clean, especially important for trail runners! Get all the dry mud out you can, as soon as you can!

Use a pillowcase

To eliminate odours, remove your insoles and laces, pop them in a pillowcase and stick them in the washing machine as normal, on a cool, delicate cycle. (The only issue then is how to re-lace your running shoes, to fit your feet, perfectly). Likewise, especially if they’re elastic, let them soak in a sink of warm water.

Wash the outer of the shoe with baby wipes or warm soapy water and a cloth

To get the stubborn mud stains off the mesh of your running shoes, consider purchasing a shoe-cleaning solution or create your own, the most common are: gentle laundry detergent, dish soap, vinegar, salt, baking soda and even toothpaste. *Ensure you mix with warm water and NOT hot, or you risk harming the adhesive* Alternating between using your brush and soft cloth tends to work best when tackling heavier set stains.

If you used a cleaning solution:

It’s important to rinse and remove it, so as not to harm the integrity of the shoes. Depending on how dirty your running shoes are, this step could be repeated several times. It’s tedious but worth the results (especially if you have white running shoes!)

Finally, let the shoes drain in an empty sink naturally

Re-squeeze to remove any excess water and place some scrunched-up newspaper inside the shoe, to help it hold its shape whilst they dry out. Avoid using high heat like atop a radiator, instead opt for a warm, airy spot. You may find people use hairdryers to speed up the process, but you’re risking affecting the glue and the shape of your shoes.