How to Clean Running Shoes

As a runner, your running shoes will inevitably get dirty, especially if you’re a trail runner. By establishing a successful cleaning regimen, you can extend the lifespan of your shoes and keep them looking fresh. Dirt and mud only end up hurting your shoes and potentially your runs – built-up dirt decreases your traction and causes unevenness, which can ultimately affect your strides.

It's common, and easy, to make a cleaning solution with a mix of supplies you already have in your home, however some people opt to invest in a shoe cleaning kit.

Supplies You’ll Need:

✔ Mild Soap

✔ Hydrogen Peroxide

✔ Warm Water

✔ Mesh Laundry Bag (optional)

Tools You’ll Need:

✔ Soft Bristle Brush (toothbrush or kitchen brush)

✔ Sink or Bucket

✔ Heavy Object

Step 1: Brush off the Dirt

Brush away easily removable dirt and dust with your soft-bristle brush. Gently brush away visible dirt on the upper, midsole, and outsole – this will prep your shoe for the cleaning solution.

Step 2: Mix Your Cleaner

Once dirt and grime are removed, combine hydrogen peroxide, mild soap, baking soda, and water in a bowl. There are no specific measurements for the cleaning solution, use your best judgment for the amount needed for your shoes.

Step 3: Remove & Scrub Laces & Insoles

Shoelaces can be machine washed on a cold, gentle cycle in a mesh bag, however our Experts recommend scrubbing them with the solution first.

Remove your laces and insoles.
Scrub and rinse them thoroughly.
Soak or repeat the scrubbing process as many times as needed.

Insoles collect an abundance of sweat and dirt, and absorb bad smells. Scrubbing your insoles with the solution will not only remove grime, but will eliminate odor. Your insoles should be handwashed only, do not put them in the washing machine.

Step 4: Start Scrubbing

After removing your laces and insoles, you can begin cleaning the rest of your running shoes. Dip your brush into the cleanser, and apply firm pressure while scrubbing your shoes in circular motions.

Expert Tip: Rinsing the brush in clean water before re-dipping it into the cleanser will make it a cleaner process.

Step 5: Soak Your Shoes

Fill a bucket, sink, or tub with warm water and cleaning solution. Place your running shoes upside down until the upper is fully submerged (you may need to add a weight to keep them under the water) and let them soak for at least an hour to overnight (8 hours).

If your running shoes are white and have stubborn stains, you may want to repeat the scrubbing and soaking process.

Step 6: Towel & Air Dry

When your shoes are done soaking, rinse them with clean water, and dry them with a towel to remove as much excess soap and water as possible.

Place your shoes in a room temperature area with low humidity, and allow them to dry completely.

Do not place your shoes in the dryer or direct sunlight to dry. Heat can cause your shoes to warp and shrink.

Can Running Shoes Go in the Washer?

Yes, your running shoes can go in the washer.

Washer Instructions:

Remove the shoelaces and insoles, and brush any excess dirt off. Wash your running shoes on a cold, gentle cycle and air dry.

There’s no way to prevent your running shoes from getting dirty, but with this guide on how to clean them, you’ll easily be able to make them look as good as new. If you need any extra assistance or have additional questions, please stop in to your local SCHEELS and speak to a Shoe Expert!