shoe cleaning sneakers

Dry cleaners can clean more than just clothes. Before shoe cleaning, make sure they don’t need shoe repair. Then Identify the material you are working with. The material can be located on the tag inside the shoe or under the tongue. If you’re not sure, take the shoes to a professional. Some dry cleaners offer specific cleaning services for shoes.
Our specialist in London Dry Cleaning Company, have collected some tips and tricks of shoe cleaning, which will discuss below.

 

Hand washing

If your shoes are not too dirty, you may be able to wash and clean them at home. Follow these steps:

  1. Remove any dried or crusty material on the shoes.
  2. Remove laces, inserts, and any other removable parts.
  3. Mix gentle detergent and warm water.
  4. With an old toothbrush clean over every inch of each shoe.
  5. Blot away water and detergent as you go with another clean, dry towel.
  6. Air dry in the sun or tumble dry on low heat.

If the shoes are white, dip the toothbrush in white vinegar and lemon juice and scrub it again. Do not use bleach—it may react with the canvas and turn yellow.

shoe cleaning

Machine washing

Like the process of shoe cleaning with hand, in machine washing, you should chip off any crusty and covered in dirt as much as possible. If they are really soiled, hose them off outside.
The two next steps are similar to hand washing, treating stains, and removing all removable parts before washing.

  1. Wash on delicate with a gentle detergent.
    Use cold water—hot could melt the rubber and/or adhesive in the shoes.
  2. Throw a couple of towels in the washing machine due to balance the load.
  3. If the sneakers are white, add ½ cup vinegar or lemon juice in with the regular amount of detergent to help restore their brightness.
  4. Air dry in the sun or tumble dry on low heat.

If you have a pair that you really care about, then take them to the dry cleaners.

shoe cleaning with washing machine

7 Tips for shoe cleaning

Here are some shoe cleaning tips that anyone can use to keep their shoes clean, shiny, and new.

  • Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area during using shoe cleaners and polishes.
  • Put newspaper down or work outside to avoid staining things around you.
  • Remove laces before cleaning and polishing, and wash them with a load of laundry. If that’s not possible, tuck them into the inside of the shoe.
  • If you want to remove odor from any kind of shoe, you can deodorize the inside of your shoes using deodorizing shoe spray or sprinkle baking soda inside.
  •  Alternating between two pairs gives them a chance to air out and they will wear out less quickly. So try not to wear the same pair every day.
  • Use toothbrushes and scrub brushes with soft and synthetic bristles
  • Switching out shoelaces regularly can upgrade the appearance of your shoes.

Here are the correct ways to clean shoes made of all types of materials:

Fabric shoes

Apart from the shoe style, the fabric will eventually get dirty. Such as sandals, sneakers, pumps, or flats. clean fabric shoe surfaces by hand with just some dishwashing detergent, warm water, an old toothbrush, and paper towels.

Leather Shoes

For leather start First wipe off any soil with a cloth dipped in a solution of equal parts cool water and distilled white vinegar. then Allow the shoes to air dry completely.
Although it may be beneficial to get these periodically deep-cleaned by professional, routine maintenance is as simple as using a soft-bristled scrub brush and shoe leather cleaner.

Be sure not to scrub leather shoes too hard.

It is also recommended to periodically polish leather shoes in between cleanings as this will create a barrier to prevent scuff marks.

shoe cleaning leather

suede shoes

Suede leather shoes should be brought to a professional for cleaning, especially when stains are involved. Because suede cannot be cleaned with water so if you are in a pinch, lightly scrub your suede shoes with dry terry cloth. Most dry cleaners which have shoe cleaning service, are equipped to clean suede.
The key to keeping suede or any napped surface shoe looking its best is regular care. The surfaces should be kept as dry as possible.


Just as we sometimes take our clothes to dry cleaning, our shoes also need to be cleaned. If you don’t have the time to polish your shoes all the time, you can just walk or drive to the nearest dry cleaners and pick up your shoes for a formal event.
Our experts hold a wealth of knowledge surrounding fabrics, remove stains, and chemicals. With time and experience, they perfect which combinations guarantee clean and unscathed products. Contact us to order.

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