Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Shoes (2024)

No one likes to wear dirty shoes, but cleaning them can be a tricky process. It’s easy to make mistakes that leave your shoes looking worse than before you started. To keep your shoes looking their best, it’s important to know what not to do when you’re cleaning them. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when cleaning shoes. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to keep your shoes sparkling clean for years!

Using the wrong cleaning products

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Shoes (1)

Not all shoes are created equal and the same goes for cleaning products. You should never use a product on your shoes that is not specifically designed for it, as this could cause discolouration or damage to the material.

Before using a cleaner, be sure to read the product label carefully and make sure it is suitable for the type of shoe you are cleaning. Additionally, you should test the solution on a small area of your shoe to ensure it is 100% safe.

Using too much water or detergent

Too much water or detergent can easily ruin your shoes. Avoid using high-pressure hoses, as this could drive dirt and moisture deep into the material and cause staining or stretching. Instead, use a damp cloth to gently wipe away dirt and use minimal amounts of detergent if necessary.

Ignoring the laces

It’s easy to overlook your shoelaces when cleaning shoes, but leaving them dirty can make your shoes look scruffy. Before you begin cleaning, remove the laces from the shoe and put them in a bowl or sink with some soapy water for a few minutes. Once they have soaked, rinse them off and leave them to dry before putting them back in your shoes. For more detail, you can read our step by step guide for cleaning shoelaces.

Not rinsing properly

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Shoes (2)

Rinsing your shoes after cleaning is an important step that many people forget. Allowing detergent or cleaner residue to build up on the shoe can cause discolouration and poor odours. After wiping down the shoe, be sure to rinse it with plain water and allow it to dry completely before wearing or storing.

Not following up with protection

Once you finish cleaning your shoes, it’s important to follow up with a good protection spray or cream. This will help keep them looking their best and prevent dirt from sticking and staining the material. Be sure to check the label of any protection product you use and make sure it is suitable for your shoe’s material before applying.

Conclusion

Keeping shoes clean can be a tricky process, but with the right knowledge and tools you can keep your footwear looking great for years to come. By avoiding common mistakes such as using the wrong cleaning products or not rinsing properly, you’ll be able to ensure that your shoes are well cared for and remain in perfect condition. Don’t forget to follow up with protection spray or cream after cleaning too! With these tips in mind, you’ll have no trouble keeping your shoes sparkling clean all year round. For more shoe care tips, read our article for how to ensure the longevity of your shoes!

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Shoes (2024)

FAQs

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Shoes? ›

Final answer: To clean leather shoes, wipe off surface dirt and use a leather cleaner or mild soap and water. For lace/gamosa shoes, clean the laces separately and use a soft brush to scrub the shoes. To clean rubber shoes, remove dirt and use a mild soap and water solution.

What are the safety measures when cleaning shoes? ›

What to Avoid
  • Don't clean with solvent.
  • Don't force dry.
  • Don't leave in direct sunlight (especially if your shoes are leather)

What is the proper procedure of cleaning at least 3 types of shoes? ›

Final answer: To clean leather shoes, wipe off surface dirt and use a leather cleaner or mild soap and water. For lace/gamosa shoes, clean the laces separately and use a soft brush to scrub the shoes. To clean rubber shoes, remove dirt and use a mild soap and water solution.

Should you clean your shoes after every use? ›

Daily Maintenance: Make it a habit to remove dirt, dust, and debris from your shoes after each use. Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe away the surface dirt. This simple practice can go a long way in preventing dirt buildup.

What is the proper procedure of cleaning shoes with accessories? ›

How to Clean Shoes
  1. Wipe Away Excess Dirt. Remove the laces, if appropriate, and wipe down the shoes with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any loose surface dust and dirt.
  2. Make a Cleaning Solution. Mix one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid in two cups of warm water. ...
  3. Wash the Laces. ...
  4. Scrub Shoes. ...
  5. Rinse and Dry.
Nov 17, 2023

Do shoes get ruined if you wash them? ›

Shoes may shrink in the washing machine if they are washed on a hot water cycle. When washing your shoes, always follow the care instructions. Generally, shoes should be washed on a cold, gentle cycle to prevent shrinking and damage. After washing, air dry your shoes overnight.

Is Dawn soap safe to clean shoes? ›

Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt, including along the rubber edge and tongue. Mix a few drops of dish soap, like Dawn, into a cup of warm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the soapy water and gently go over both shoes.

Does washing shoes in the washer ruin them? ›

Generally speaking, shoes made of canvas, nylon, cotton and polyester can safely be washed in a washing machine; however, those made with leather, suede, rubber or vinyl should not be placed in the washer.

How do you disinfect shoes from bacteria? ›

Isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol, is a powerful antiseptic that can fight odour-causing bacteria in your shoes. Simply mix some alcohol and water in a spray bottle and mist the interior of your shoes. Be sure to use an alcohol that ranges in strength from 70–99%, and let your shoes dry overnight.

How to get the smell out of shoes? ›

Use Baking Soda and a Coffee Filter

To try this home remedy: Fill an unused coffee filter with baking soda, cornstarch, or talcum powder. Secure it at the end with a rubber band, staples, or tape. Place the package in each of your shoes at the end of the day after wearing them.

What is the OSHA safety shoe policy? ›

Safety toe protective footwear must be worn at all times regardless of the presence of a hazard; and the safety toe protective footwear must meet the following requirements - leather uppers, oil resistant and non-skid soles, and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F2413-05 with an impact resistance rate ...

How to inspect safety shoes? ›

Safety footwear should be inspected prior to each use. They should be checked for wear and tear and replaced as needed. Look for cracks or holes, separation of materials, broken buckles or laces. Check the soles for pieces of metal or other embedded items that could present electrical or tripping hazards.

What is the basic standard safety shoes? ›

This safety footwear standard requires all safety shoes to have front foot protection against a 200 joule impact. This is the amount of energy the toe region can absorb before breaking. Under the EN ISO 20345 standard there are different safety classes like S1 or S3 for example.

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