Learning how to clean mesh gym shoes is essential for any active person. Mesh gym shoes trap odors, so a thorough cleaning routine targets both the inside and outside. If you don’t clean them properly, that fresh pair can quickly become a source of stench and wear out faster. This guide gives you clear, step-by-step methods to get your shoes looking and smelling new again, extending their life and keeping your workouts fresh.
You’ll need a few basic supplies. Most are probably already in your home. Getting these items together before you start makes the whole process smoother and more effective.
- Mild Liquid Detergent: A gentle dish soap or a specialty sneaker cleaner is perfect. Avoid harsh detergents or bleach.
- Soft-Bristled Brush: An old toothbrush, a soft nail brush, or a dedicated sneaker brush works well.
- Microfiber Cloth or Soft Towel: For drying and gentle wiping.
- Cold or Lukewarm Water: Hot water can damage adhesives and mesh.
- Baking Soda or White Vinegar: Natural deodorizers for tackling smells.
- Optional: Oxygen-Based Bleach (like OxiClean): For whitening and tackling tough stains on light-colored shoes.
How To Clean Mesh Gym Shoes
This is your core cleaning method. It’s effective for most general dirt and grime. Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging the delicate mesh material.
Step 1: Remove Laces And Insoles
Always start by taking the shoes apart. Pull out the laces completely. Remove the insoles or footbeds. This allows you to clean every surface, including the areas normally hidden. It prevents soap from getting trapped under the insole where it can cause mold.
Step 2: Dry Brush Off Loose Dirt
Take your soft-bristled brush and gently brush the entire exterior of the shoe. Focus on the mesh areas and the outsole to dislodge dried mud, dust, and debris. Doing this before applying water prevents you from making a muddy paste that’s harder to clean.
Step 3: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Fill a small basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water. Add a small amount of your mild detergent—about a teaspoon is usually enough. Swirl it with your hand to create suds. You want a soapy solution, not a soapy paste. If your shoes are very dirty, you can mix a paste of detergent and baking soda for spot treatment.
Step 4: Clean The Mesh Uppers
Dip your soft brush into the soapy solution and gently scrub the mesh in a circular motion. Be gentle to avoid fraying the fibers. For stubborn stains, apply a little more solution directly to the spot and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. Do not submerge the entire shoe in water, as this can ruin the glue and internal structure.
Step 5> Clean The Outsoles, Insoles, And Laces
Scrub the rubber outsoles with the brush to remove ground-in dirt. Wash the removable insoles by hand with the soapy solution, paying attention to the heel area. Soak the laces in the soapy water and rub them between your fingers to clean them thoroughly.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
This is a critical step. Dampen a clean cloth with cold, clean water and wipe down the entire shoe to remove all soap residue. You can also gently run the shoes under a low stream of cold water. Leftover soap can attract more dirt and cause discoloration. Ensure you rinse the insoles and laces completely as well.
Step 7: Dry Properly
Never put mesh shoes in the dryer. The heat can warp them and damage the glue. Instead, stuff the shoes with crumpled white paper towels or dry, clean cloths. This helps them hold their shape and absorbs moisture from the inside. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Let them air dry completely, which may take 24-48 hours.
Tackling Specific Stains And Problems
Sometimes general cleaning isn’t enough. Here’s how to handle common, tough issues specific to athletic shoes.
Removing Grass and Mud Stains
For fresh mud, let it dry completely first, then brush it off. For set-in grass stains, apply a small amount of white vinegar directly to the stain with a cloth, let it sit for 10 minutes, then gently scrub with your soapy brush before rinsing.
Dealing With Scuff Marks
Scuff marks on the rubber or midsole often respond well to a magic eraser (melamine foam). Dampen the eraser slightly and gently rub the scuff. Test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the material.
Whitening Discolored Mesh
For white mesh that has yellowed or grayed, create a paste of oxygen-based bleach and water. Apply it only to the mesh areas with a brush, let it sit for 30-60 minutes (out of sunlight), then rinse thoroughly. This is usually very effective.
How To Eliminate Odors From Mesh Gym Shoes
Odor is a common problem because mesh traps sweat and bacteria. Cleaning the outside isn’t always enough; you need to address the interior ecosystem.
Baking Soda Treatment
Baking soda is a fantastic natural deodorizer. After cleaning and while the shoes are drying, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside them. Let it sit overnight, then shake it out. You can also place the shoes in a sealed bag or container with an open box of baking soda for a day.
Vinegar Solution Spray
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the inside of clean, dry shoes. The vinegar kills odor-causing bacteria. Let the shoes air out completely; the vinegar smell will dissipate as they dry.
Freezing Method
For persistent odors, place your shoes in a sealed plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperatures kill many bacteria. This is a good maintenance trick between deep cleans.
Machine Washing Mesh Gym Shoes: Is It Safe?
This is a common question with a risky answer. Machine washing can severely damage your shoes. The agitator can tear the mesh, and the heat can warp soles and weaken glue. However, if you must use a machine, follow these strict guidelines.
- Remove laces and insoles (wash laces in a garment bag).
- Place each shoe in a separate mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
- Use a gentle, cold water cycle with a small amount of mild detergent.
- Never use bleach or fabric softener.
- Air dry only—never use the dryer.
Hand washing is always the safer, recommended method to preserve your shoes’ integrity.
Preventive Care And Maintenance Tips
Prevention is easier than deep cleaning. These habits will keep your mesh gym shoes in better condition for longer.
- Rotate Your Shoes: Don’t wear the same pair two days in a row. This gives them time to air out and dry completely between uses.
- Use Moisture-Wicking Socks: Good socks reduce the amount of sweat that soaks into the shoe lining.
- Spot Clean Immediately: Wipe off fresh dirt or spills with a damp cloth as soon as possible.
- Store Properly: Keep shoes in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Avoid leaving them in a dark gym bag.
- Apply a Protectant Spray: After cleaning and when shoes are completely dry, use a waterproofing spray designed for sneakers. This creates a barrier against future stains and liquids.
FAQ Section
Can you put mesh shoes in the washing machine?
It is not recommended, as it can damage the glue and structure. If you choose to, use a gentle, cold cycle and place the shoes in a protective bag, always air drying them afterward.
What is the best way to clean white mesh on sneakers?
The best way involves a soft brush, mild soap, and cold water. For yellowing, a paste of oxygen-based bleach applied to the mesh, allowed to sit, and then rinsed can restore whiteness effectively.
How do you get smells out of mesh athletic shoes?
To eliminate odors, use a combination of thorough cleaning, baking soda treatments overnight, and occasional sprays with a diluted white vinegar solution to kill bacteria inside the shoe.
How long does it take for mesh shoes to air dry?
Properly stuffed mesh gym shoes typically take between 24 to 48 hours to dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Never use direct heat to speed up the process.
Can I use baking soda and vinegar together to clean?
No, you should not mix baking soda and vinegar for cleaning shoes. They neutralize each other, creating a fizzy reaction that is less effective for cleaning. Use them separately for different purposes: baking soda as a deodorizer and paste, vinegar as a disinfectant spray.
Cleaning your mesh gym shoes regularly is a simple but important part of gear maintenance. By following these steps, you protect your investment, ensure better foot hygiene, and keep your shoes performing and looking their best for every run, lift, or workout. Remember, gentle care and prompt attention to stains and odors are the keys to success.