Sneaker cleaning hacks 101

Quick tips for fresh kicks

Are your favourite sneakers looking a little worse for wear? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog post, we'll share some sneaker cleaning hacks that will have your kicks looking fresh and clean in no time. Whether you're dealing with scuffs, stains, or just general dirtiness, our step-by-step guide and expert tips will help restore your shoes to their former glory. So grab your cleaning supplies and get ready to give those sneakers the TLC they deserve!

Types of Sneaker Cleaning Hacks

1. Refresh your canvas shoes with baking soda: To remove unpleasant odours from your favourite canvas sneakers, sprinkle some baking soda on the insoles and let it sit overnight. In the morning, simply tap off the excess powder for fresh-smelling kicks.

2. Quick clean with household hacks: For a simple and effective clean, try using common household items like toothpaste or dish soap to scrub away dirt and stains from your sneakers. The gentle abrasiveness of toothpaste can work wonders on scuff marks, while a mixture of dish soap and warm water can lift grime without damaging delicate materials.

1. Household Items

Cleaning your beloved sneakers doesn't have to be a daunting task. With just a few common household items, you can restore the freshness of your kicks in no time. Baking soda is an effective hack for eliminating unwanted smells, while canvas shoes can be easily cleaned using everyday supplies.

2. DIY Cleaning Solutions

Instead of spending money on expensive cleaning products, try these DIY solutions to keep your sneakers looking fresh and clean. With just a few ingredients that you probably already have at home, you can easily remove dirt and stains from your canvas shoes. Give these simple cleaning hacks a try:

• Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with water to create a paste, then scrub it onto the stained areas of your canvas shoes using an old toothbrush.

• Vinegar solution: Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto your sneakers to eliminate odours and kill bacteria.

• Lemon juice magic: Squeeze some lemon juice onto tough stains or yellowed areas on your canvas shoes. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

These DIY cleaning solutions are easy to make and highly effective in restoring the cleanliness of your beloved kicks!

3. Specialized Cleaning Products by VINCE

In addition to household items like baking soda, there are also some great specialized cleaning products available specifically for sneaker enthusiasts. Look for VINCE sneaker cleaning solution cleaners that are designed for all materials and follow the instructions accordingly. These cleaner kitsoften come with brushes and micro fibre towels that make it easier to reach all areas of your shoes and effectively remove dirt and grime without damaging the materials.

Step-by-Step Sneaker Cleaning Guide

1. Remove Excess Dirt and Debris

Brush off loose dirt with a soft-bristle brush. Use the bristles to gently sweep away any dirt or debris on the surface of your sneakers. Pay attention to areas like the soles and crevices.

• Use a toothbrush to gently scrub hard-to-reach areas. The small bristles of a toothbrush can effectively clean tight spots, such as around laces and in between shoe grooves.

• Wipe away any remaining dirt with a damp cloth. Dampen a cloth slightly and use it to wipe down your sneakers, removing any remaining dirt or stains from the surface.

2. Pre-Treat Stains

Create a paste using baking soda and water, then apply it to the stained area. This will help break down and lift the stain from your sneakers. 

Dab a small amount of dish soap onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. The soap will work as a pre-treatment agent to loosen tough stains before cleaning.

Spray a sneaker cleaner specifically designed for tough stains onto the affected area. This specialized product is formulated to tackle stubborn stains on sneakers effectively.

By following these pre-treating techniques, you'll be one step closer to restoring your beloved kicks back to their original glory!

3. Clean the Sneakers

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a few drops of VINCE sneaker cleaning solution (ratio 10 water: 1 drop-increase drops for soiled or dirty shoes). Gently hand wash your sneakers using circular motions and focusing on heavily soiled areas. Soak laces separately in soapy water, then scrub them clean with an old toothbrush.

4. Dry and Air Out the Sneakers

Place paper towels inside each shoe to absorb moisture. This will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, keeping your sneakers fresh and odor-free. Avoid exposing your sneakers to direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause materials to warp and lose their shape. Instead, leave them in an open, well-ventilated area to air dry naturally.

Tips for Cleaning Different Types of Sneakers

Leather Sneakers: To clean leather sneakers, start by wiping off any loose dirt or debris with a soft cloth. Then, mix a solution of mild soap and warm water and gently scrub the sneakers using a soft-bristled brush. Rinse off the soap with clean water and pat dry with a towel. Finally, apply leather conditioner to keep them looking fresh.

Canvas Sneakers: For canvas sneakers, remove the laces and wash them separately in warm soapy water. Next, create a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar to make a paste-like consistency. Apply this paste to the canvas surface using an old toothbrush or sponge and scrub gently. Rinse off with clean water and let them air dry before re-lacing.

Suede or Nubuck Sneakers: Cleaning suede or nubuck sneakers requires extra care as these materials are more delicate. Start by using a suede brush to remove any surface dirt or stains gently. For tougher stains, you can use specialized suede cleaner following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Avoid getting these shoes wet as much as possible to maintain their texture.

Note: Make sure to always read manufacturer recommendations for specific maintenance instructions for your particular sneaker material before applying any cleaning methods mentioned above.

1. Leather Sneakers

To keep your leather sneakers looking fresh, start by wiping them down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or stains. Then, apply a small amount of leather cleaner onto another cloth and gently rub it into the surface of the shoes in circular motions. Once you've cleaned the entire shoe, wipe off any excess cleaner and allow them to air dry before applying a leather conditioner to moisturize and protect the material.

2. Leather Sneakers (Maintenance): Regular maintenance is key for keeping your leather sneakers in top condition. After each wear, give them a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Additionally, invest in some quality shoe polish that matches the colour of your sneakers and use it every few months to restore shine and nourish the leather. Lastly, store your sneakers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or cracking over time.

2. Canvas Sneakers

1. Remove dirt and stains: Start by brushing off any loose dirt from your canvas sneakers using a soft-bristled brush. Then, mix equal parts of VINCE sneaker cleaning solution and warm water in a bowl. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently scrub away any remaining stains on the shoes.

2. Freshen up with baking soda: To eliminate odors from your canvas sneakers, sprinkle some baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. The next day, shake out the excess powder and enjoy fresh-smelling kicks that are ready to wear again! Alternatively, use VINCE deodorisers and leave them in your shoes when not wearing them. These deodorisers have gentle scent. They will leave your shoes smelling fresh all day everyday.

3. Suede or Nubuck Sneakers

Suede or nubuck sneakers require special care to keep them looking their best. Use a suede brush to gently remove dirt and stains, then apply a water and stain repellent spray to protect the material from future damage. Avoid wearing these sneakers in wet conditions, as moisture can easily ruin their delicate texture.

Additional Sneaker Care Tips

1. Spot clean stains immediately using a gentle solution of water and VINCE sneaker cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the material.

2. Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub away dirt and grime, paying extra attention to the midsole and outsole areas for thorough cleaning.

1. Preventative Measures

Preventative Measures:

• Choose sneakers made from easy-to-clean materials, such as leather or canvas.

• Apply a protective spray to your sneakers before wearing them to repel dirt and stains.

• Avoid wearing your sneakers in harsh weather conditions or muddy environments.

To keep your kicks looking fresh for longer, it's important to take preventative measures. Opt for sneakers made from materials that are easy to clean, like leather or canvas. Before wearing them for the first time, apply a protective spray to create a barrier against dirt and stains. Additionally, try not to wear your favorite pair of kicks in harsh weather conditions or muddy environments. By following these simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your sneakers and keep them looking their best!

2. Storage Tips

• Keep your sneakers in a cool, dry place to prevent mouldand mildew.

• Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources to prevent color fading and material damage.

3. Quick Clean-Up

When it comes to giving your sneakers a quick clean-up, there are two essential hacks you need to know. First, try using a magic eraser to remove scuffs and marks from the surface of your shoes. Simply wet the magic eraser and gently rub it over the affected areas until they disappear. Second, for those pesky stains on white sneakers, mix equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste and apply it directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth. These simple tricks will have your kicks looking fresh in no time!