Keeping your favorite running shoes looking and smelling fresh is essential, but figuring out how to clean running shoes with mesh can seem tricky. Mesh running shoes require a gentle approach to remove dirt without damaging the fabric. This guide provides a simple, step-by-step method to get them looking new again.
How To Clean Running Shoes With Mesh
Cleaning mesh shoes is not the same as cleaning leather or solid synthetic materials. The porous nature of mesh is great for breathability but means it can trap dirt, mud, and odors. A harsh scrub or the wrong cleaner can fray the fibers or ruin the material’s structure. The goal is to be thorough yet gentle, using the right tools and techniques to preserve your shoes for many more miles.
What You Will Need For Cleaning
Before you start, gather your supplies. You likely have most of these items at home already. Using the correct materials from the start makes the whole process smoother and more effective.
- Soft-Bristled Brush: An old toothbrush, a soft nail brush, or a dedicated shoe cleaning brush is perfect.
- Mild Cleaning Solution: Dish soap (like Dawn or Joy) is ideal. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or stain removers.
- Microfiber Cloth or Soft Sponge: For wiping and drying without leaving lint.
- Two Bowls of Cool or Lukewarm Water: One for your soapy solution, one for rinsing.
- White Paper Towels or Clean, White Cloth: For stuffing the shoes to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
- Optional but Helpful: A small drop of white vinegar for odor control, and a specialized sneaker cleaner if you prefer.
Step By Step Cleaning Instructions
Follow these steps in order for the best results. It’s a good idea to clean your shoes on a day when you can let them air dry completely, which usually takes 12-24 hours.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Start by taking out the laces and the insoles. This allows you to clean every part of the shoe. Tap the shoes together outside or over a trash can to dislodge any dried mud, sand, or gravel stuck in the tread. Use your dry brush to gently sweep away surface dirt from the mesh upper and the midsole.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Fill one bowl with cool water and add a small amount of your mild dish soap—about a teaspoon is plenty. Swirl it with your hand to create suds. The second bowl should contain plain, cool water for rinsing. Never use hot water, as it can damage adhesives and cause the mesh to shrink or warp.
Step 3: Clean the Mesh Upper and Insoles
Dip your soft-bristled brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the mesh in a circular motion. Focus on stained areas, but be patient; let the soap do the work. For the insoles, scrub both sides thoroughly to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Avoid soaking the entire shoe; just dampen the areas you are actively cleaning.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
This is a crucial step. Dip a clean microfiber cloth or sponge into the bowl of plain water and wring it out well. Wipe down all the soapy areas on the mesh until no soap residue remains. Soap left in the fabric can attract more dirt and cause discoloration over time. You can also gently run the shoe under a low stream of cool water, but avoid saturating the interior.
Step 5: Clean the Laces and Midsole
Your laces can be tossed into the soapy water, swished around, rinsed, and laid flat to dry. For the midsole (the often-colored foam part) and the outsole (the tread), use your brush with soapy water to scrub away scuff marks and dirt. A magic eraser can be very effective here for stubborn marks, but test it on a small area first.
Step 6: Dry Your Shoes Properly
Proper drying is as important as cleaning. Never, ever put mesh running shoes in the clothes dryer or use direct heat from a radiator or hair dryer. The intense heat can melt glues, shrink materials, and permanently damage the shoes.
Instead, stuff the toe box and heel of each shoe firmly with white paper towels or a clean, dry cloth. This absorbs internal moisture and helps the shoe keep its shape. Then, place them in a well-ventilated area at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Let them air dry completely.
How To Handle Stubborn Stains And Odors
Sometimes, basic cleaning isn’t enough for deep-set stains or persistent smells. Here are some targeted solutions for common problems.
Removing Grass and Mud Stains
For green grass stains or dried mud, create a slightly stronger paste from baking soda and your dish soap. Apply the paste directly to the stain on the mesh and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, gently scrub with your soft brush and rinse thoroughly. The mild abrasive action of the baking soda can help lift the stain without being to harsh on the fabric.
Eliminating Tough Odors
If odors linger after cleaning, the issue is usually bacteria deep in the fabric or insole. Make a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water. Lightly mist the inside of the shoe and the insole (avoid over-saturating) and allow it to air dry completely. The vinegar smell will dissapear as it dries, taking the bad odors with it. Sprinkling baking soda inside the dry shoes overnight and shaking it out the next day is another effective odor absorber.
Common Cleaning Mistakes To Avoid
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right steps. These common errors can shorten the lifespan of your running shoes.
- Using the Washing Machine: The agitation and spin cycle can break down the structural integrity of the shoe and damage the mesh.
- Applying Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, stain removers, and strong solvents will discolor and weaken mesh fibers.
- Scrubbing Too Aggressively: Hard scrubbing with a stiff brush will pull and fray the delicate mesh threads.
- Drying With Direct Heat: As mentioned, heat warps shoes and ruins the cushioning and glues.
- Leaving Shoes Soaking Wet: Excess moisture trapped inside can lead to material breakdown and mildew growth.
Tips For Maintaining Clean Running Shoes
Regular maintenance makes deep cleans less frequent and easier. Incorporate these simple habits to keep your shoes in better condition longer.
- After each run, knock off loose dirt and wipe the soles with a damp cloth.
- Allow your shoes to air out after every use; don’t just toss them in a dark gym bag.
- Rotate between two pairs of running shoes if possible. This gives each pair ample time to dry and recover its cushioning.
- Consider a waterproofing spray designed for mesh and synthetic materials to help repel light stains and water. Always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
FAQ About Cleaning Mesh Running Shoes
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this topic.
Can You Put Mesh Running Shoes in the Washing Machine?
It is not recommended. While some people do it, the machine’s harsh agitation can damage the shoe’s structure, midsole foam, and the mesh itself. Hand washing is always the safer, more effective method for preserving your investment.
What is the Best Cleaner for Mesh Shoes?
A mild dish soap diluted in water is the best all-around cleaner. It’s effective at cutting grease and dirt but gentle on materials. For commercial options, choose a cleaner specifically formualted for sneakers or athletic shoes.
How Often Should You Clean Your Running Shoes?
It depends on your usage. A quick wipe-down should happen after muddy or dirty runs. A full, deep clean like the one described above is recommended every 4-6 weeks for regular runners, or whenever visible dirt and odors become noticeable.
Why Do My Clean Shoes Still Smell?
Odors are caused by bacteria. If a smell persists, it means bacteria are still present in the fabric or insole. Ensure you are cleaning the insoles separately and thoroughly, and use the vinegar or baking soda treatments mentioned to kill odor-causing bacteria.
Following this comprehensive guide will ensure you know exactly how to clean running shoes with mesh safely and effectively. With proper care, your running shoes will not only look better but will also provide reliable support and comfort for many more runs to come.