Your Brooks running shoes will last longer and stay fresher with a careful cleaning process. Learning how to clean Brooks running shoes properly is essential for maintaining their performance and appearance. This guide will walk you through the safest methods for every part of your shoe.
Regular cleaning prevents odor, preserves cushioning, and extends the life of your investment. You do not need harsh chemicals or complicated tools. With some basic household items and the right technique, you can keep your Brooks looking and feeling great for many more miles.
How To Clean Brooks Running Shoes
This section covers the core principles and preparation steps for a successful clean. Following a structured approach ensures you do not accidentally damage the materials.
Understanding Your Brooks Shoe Materials
Brooks uses a variety of high-tech fabrics and foams. Identifying them helps you choose the correct cleaning method. Most uppers are made of engineered mesh, which is breathable but delicate.
The midsole is typically soft DNA LOFT, BioMoGo DNA, or GuideRails foam. Outsoles use durable rubber with grippy patterns. Always check the care label inside the tongue for any brand-specific instructions.
Common Brooks Upper Materials
- Engineered Mesh: Lightweight and airy, requires gentle brushing.
- 3D Fit Print: Printed overlays, avoid abrasive scrubbing.
- Suede or Leather Accents: Use a specialized cleaner or damp cloth.
- Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): For support structures, wipe with a damp cloth.
Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies
You likely have most of these items at home. Avoid using strong detergents, bleach, or stain removers as they can break down adhesives and fabrics.
- Soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly)
- Mild dish soap or a dedicated sneaker cleaner
- Microfiber cloths or soft rags
- Lukewarm water
- Two small bowls or basins
- Optional: White vinegar for odor control and baking soda for stains
Pre-Cleaning Preparation Steps
Proper prep makes the cleaning process much more effective. Start by removing the insoles and laces. This allows you to clean every nook and cranny.
- Take out the laces and any removable insoles (sock liners).
- Knock the shoes together outside to dislodge loose dirt and pebbles.
- Use a dry brush to gently sweep away surface dirt from the midsole and upper.
- If the shoes are very wet, stuff them with paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture and help them hold their shape. Do not use heat to dry them.
Step-By-Step Cleaning Process
Now, let’s break down the cleaning into manageable steps. Work on one shoe at a time to keep track of your progress.
Cleaning The Mesh Upper And Fabric
The mesh upper is prone to staining but easy to clean with patience. Never submerge the entire shoe in water, as this can damage the midsole foam.
- Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with lukewarm water in a bowl to create a soapy solution.
- Dampen your soft-bristled brush in the solution, then gently scrub the mesh in circular motions. Focus on stained areas.
- For tougher stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit for 10 minutes, then gently scrub.
- Wipe the area clean with a microfiber cloth dampened with plain water to rinse the soap away.
- Blot excess moisture with a dry towel. Let the shoes air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heaters.
Cleaning The Midsole And Outsole
The midsole and outsole can take a bit more aggresion. Be careful where the midsole meets the upper to avoid separating the glue.
- For the rubber outsole, use the soapy brush to scrub away dirt and grime. A slightly stiffer brush can be used here.
- For foam midsoles, use the same gentle brush as the upper to prevent scuffing. They can discolor easily, so consistent cleaning is key.
- Rinse by wiping with a cloth dipped in clean water. Avoid soaking the foam.
- Inspect the deep grooves of the outsole for lodged stones and pick them out.
Cleaning The Insoles And Laces
Insoles and laces are major sources of odor. Cleaning them separately makes a huge difference.
For removable insoles, scrub them with the soapy brush, focusing on the footbed area. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely before reinserting. For laces, soak them in the soapy water solution, agitate them, rinse, and lay flat to dry. You can also toss them in a laundry bag and wash them with a regular load.
Drying Your Brooks Shoes Correctly
Improper drying is a leading cause of damage. It can warp the shape and break down cushioning.
- Never use a clothes dryer, hairdryer, or place shoes on a radiator.
- Do not leave them in direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade colors and weaken materials.
- Stuff the shoes loosely with paper towels or white newspaper to absorb internal moisture and maintain form.
- Place them in a well-ventilated area at room temperature. A fan can circulate air to speed up the process.
- Expect drying to take 12 to 24 hours. Be patient and ensure they are completely dry before wearing.
Advanced Cleaning And Maintenance Tips
For specific stains or long-term care, these extra tips will help. They address common problems runners face.
Removing Tough Stains And Odors
Mud, grass, and road tar require a bit more attention. For mud, let it dry completely first, then brush it off before applying any liquid. For grass stains, a dab of white vinegar on a cloth can help lift the chlorophyll before soap cleaning.
To combat persistent odors, sprinkle baking soda inside the dry shoes and let it sit overnight before vacuuming it out. You can also use a specialized shoe deodorizer spray designed for athletic gear.
Waterproofing And Protection
While most Brooks shoes are not fully waterproof, you can apply a protector spray. Choose a spray suitable for synthetic mesh and nubuck. Always apply it to completely clean and dry shoes in a well-ventilated area. Reapply every few weeks for runs in wet conditions.
Storage And Rotation Advice
How you store your shoes between runs affects there longevity. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid keeping them in a tightly sealed gym bag while damp. It is also beneficial to rotate between two pairs of running shoes. This gives each pair ample time to dry out and for the foam to fully rebound, extending the life of both.
Common Cleaning Mistakes To Avoid
Being aware of these errors will save your shoes from premature retirement. Even well-intentioned methods can cause harm.
Using The Wrong Cleaning Agents
Harsh chemicals like bleach, stain removers, or strong solvents can degrade adhesives, fade colors, and break down synthetic fibers. Stick to mild soaps. Also, avoid putting your Brooks shoes in the washing machine or dishwasher. The agitation and heat can warp them and damage structural components.
Applying Excessive Heat And Water
As mentioned, heat is an enemy of running shoes. It can shrink materials, weaken glue, and deform the midsole. Similarly, soaking shoes or using a high-pressure hose forces water into the foam and layers, which is difficult to remove and can lead to material breakdown and mildew.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Waiting until shoes are caked in mud makes cleaning much harder. A quick dry brush after each run prevents dirt from setting in. Addressing small stains immediately stops them from becoming permanent. Regular maintenance is simpler and more effective than deep cleaning neglect shoes.
FAQ Section
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about cleaning Brooks running shoes.
Can You Machine Wash Brooks Running Shoes?
Brooks does not recommend machine washing their running shoes. The washer’s spin cycle can damage the structural integrity, loosen adhesives, and misshape the shoes. Hand cleaning is always the safer, recommended method.
How Often Should You Clean Your Running Shoes?
A good rule is to perform a light dry brush after every run and a full wet clean every 4-6 weeks, depending on your mileage and conditions. If you run in mud or rain, clean them as soon as possible after the run to prevent stains and odor from setting.
What Is The Best Cleaner For Brooks Shoes?
A mild dish soap diluted in water is perfectly effective and affordable. For a specialized option, use a cleaner formulated for athletic shoes or sneakers. These are pH-balanced for synthetic materials. Avoid all-purpose household cleaners.
How Do You Clean White Brooks Running Shoes?
Follow the same gentle cleaning steps. For persistent greyness on white mesh, a paste of baking soda and water applied before scrubbing can help brighten the material. Ensure you rinse thoroughly. Let them dry away from sunlight to prevent yellowing.
Why Do My Brooks Shoes Smell Bad And How Can I Fix It?
Odor is caused by bacteria thriving in the moist, dark environment. Ensure shoes dry completely between runs. Use the baking soda method overnight. Wash your insoles and laces regularly. Wearing moisture-wicking socks also significantly reduces interior dampness.