How to Clean Shoe for Every Material and Type

TL: DR

• This guide is for anyone who wants to keep their shoes whether leather, suede, canvas, or sneakers clean, stylish, and long-lasting using easy home methods.
  
• Cleaning your shoes weekly prevents dirt buildup, cracking, and discolouration, helping your footwear stay durable and new-looking.
  
• Proper shoe cleaning removes bacteria and sweat, keeping your feet healthy and your shoes fresh-smelling.
  
• Different materials need different care, leather needs polish, suede needs gentle brushing, and canvas can be hand-washed safely.
  
• Avoid direct sunlight, use mild detergents, store shoes properly, and use waterproof sprays to protect and extend their lifespan.

Introduction

Shoes are not merely a fashion item. The way you appear is complete and unforgettable. No matter what you do, dress up, attend the office, or walk around casually, clean and well-maintained shoes will make you appear good. Your shoes may get dirty with dust, stains, or weather damage so you should clean them on a regular basis.

The most effective and easy of them is to learn how to clean shoes properly to increase their longevity and comfort. Clean shoes are nice and reflect an image of being organized and a detail-oriented person. It is even more significant to take care of shoes in different places such as India where dust, humidity, and abrupt monsoons are frequent. Leather, suede, and canvas can easily end up dirty and wet resulting in loss of color and bad smell unless cleaned immediately.

Hygiene can also be ensured by keeping shoes clean. Shoes may also accumulate sweat, bacteria and foul odors over time particularly when you wear them every day to work or exercise. These issues can be prevented by regular washing, which maintains the health of your feet and the freshness of your shoes. It is also cost effective and environment friendly as shoes that are well maintained last long.

Here in this guide you will know how to clean any type of shoes whether leather or suede, canvas or sneakers. We will also demonstrate to you easy ways of doing it at home, what to use, and professional tips that will restore the original shine and comfort to your shoes. This guide will take care of all the cleaning things you would wish to do, be it getting rid of difficult stains, whitening sneakers, or polishing formal shoes.

You will also need to learn how to clean a pair of shoes at home using cheap and safe procedures before purchasing a new pair. Your footwear does not require a lot of time or attention to appear new and be ready to take you on all your steps.

Why You Should Clean Your Shoes Regularly

Shoes are an essential part of your daily life. They carry you through every step, from long office hours to casual outings. Yet, they’re also the most exposed to dust, sweat, and rough surfaces. Over time, this constant wear and tear can make them lose their shine, comfort, and even structural strength. That’s why learning how to clean shoes properly and doing it regularly is more than just a matter of style, it’s a form of self-care and smart maintenance.

1. Extend the Lifespan of Your Shoes

Every time you wear your shoes, they collect dust, dirt, and moisture from the environment. If left uncleaned, these particles settle deep into the material, leading to cracks, discoloration, and loss of texture. Regular cleaning helps remove these harmful elements before they cause permanent damage.

Knowing how to clean shoes correctly whether they’re made of leather, canvas, suede, or mesh  can add months or even years to their life. For example, polishing leather shoes after wiping off dirt keeps the surface smooth and prevents cracking, while washing sneakers regularly prevents stains from setting in. Consistent care ensures your footwear stays sturdy and stylish for longer, saving you from frequent replacements.

2. Prevent Odour and Bacteria Buildup

Shoes absorb sweat, especially in hot and humid Indian weather. If they aren’t cleaned or aired out regularly, the moisture becomes a perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to grow. This not only leads to bad odour but can also cause itching, rashes, or fungal infections.

By understanding how to clean shoes the right way, you can easily eliminate these problems. Using mild detergents, natural deodorizers like baking soda, or disinfectant sprays helps keep your footwear fresh and germ-free. Regular cleaning of insoles and proper drying can drastically reduce odour and improve foot hygiene.

3. Maintain Shoe Quality, Look, and Comfort

Shoes that are well-maintained always look and feel better. Dirt, grease, and stains not only dull the appearance but also affect the comfort of your footwear. For instance, mud stuck in the sole can make your steps uneven, while dust in the lining can make shoes feel stiff or uncomfortable.

Once you learn how to clean shoes properly, maintaining their quality becomes simple. Polishing, brushing, and washing help preserve the original colour and shape, keeping the shoes breathable and flexible. Clean shoes also complement your outfit better, making you look more polished and confident whether you’re at work, a party, or travelling.

4. Save Money and Stay Sustainable

Replacing shoes frequently can be expensive, especially if you own branded or high-quality pairs. Regular cleaning is an easy, budget-friendly habit that saves you money in the long run. Instead of throwing away worn-out or dirty shoes, knowing how to clean shoes properly can help restore them, giving them a second life.

Moreover, maintaining your shoes is an eco-friendly choice. By extending their lifespan, you reduce waste and contribute to sustainable fashion, something more people in India are becoming conscious about today.

5. Boost Confidence and Personal Hygiene

There’s no denying that clean shoes create a positive impression. Whether it’s at work, college, or a social gathering, people do notice your footwear. When you take time to learn how to clean shoes and keep them looking fresh, it boosts your confidence and shows attention to detail. Plus, clean shoes prevent foot odour, ensuring you feel comfortable and fresh all day long.

What You’ll Need Before You Start Cleaning Shoes

Before you begin learning how to clean shoes, it’s important to have the right tools and materials ready. Using proper cleaning essentials ensures you don’t damage the shoe’s material and helps achieve the best results with minimal effort. Whether you’re dealing with leather, canvas, or suede, having these basic tools can make the entire cleaning process smoother and more effective.

A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush is your best friend when it comes to removing dirt and dust. It helps clean small corners and textured areas without scratching the surface. For delicate materials like suede, always use a dedicated suede brush. This simple tool plays a huge role when mastering how to clean shoes properly.

Harsh chemicals can damage the color and texture of your shoes, so it’s always better to use a gentle detergent or a specially formulated shoe cleaner. Mix a few drops with warm water to create a mild cleaning solution. This step is crucial in how to clean shoes safely without causing fading or cracking.

A clean, soft microfiber cloth is ideal for wiping away dirt, foam, or excess water. It’s gentle on all materials and prevents scratches. You can also use it to dry your shoes after cleaning or to buff leather shoes for an extra shine. Microfiber cloths help you maintain that fresh, polished look every time you follow your how to clean shoes routine.

If you want to go a step further in keeping your footwear spotless, a few household items can make a big difference. Baking soda and white vinegar work wonders for removing odours and whitening soles. A magic eraser is perfect for cleaning rubber parts or midsole stains on sneakers. These simple additions make your how to clean shoes process more effective and budget-friendly.

How to Clean Shoes Based on Material

Not all shoes are made the same and neither should be their cleaning methods. Understanding how to clean shoes based on their material helps you maintain their texture, colour, and shine without causing any damage. Each shoe type requires a slightly different approach and care routine. Here’s a detailed guide on how to clean various materials the right way.

Leather shoes are a timeless classic, but they can easily collect dust and lose their polish if not cleaned regularly. To begin, remove surface dirt using a soft brush or a damp cloth. Then, mix a few drops of mild soap with warm water and gently wipe the shoes to remove stains.

After cleaning, dry them naturally avoids direct sunlight, as it can crack the leather. Once dry, apply a leather conditioner or polish to restore the natural shine and flexibility. When you know how to clean shoes made of leather, you can keep them looking professional and elegant for years.

Suede shoes look stylish but need extra care since the material is delicate and prone to stains. Always start with a suede brush to remove surface dirt in gentle, one-way strokes. For scuffs or darker marks, use a suede eraser or a soft pencil eraser.

Avoid using water directly, as moisture can leave spots or damage the nap. Instead, lightly steam the area and brush it again. Finish with a suede protection spray to prevent future stains. Knowing how to clean shoes made from suede ensures your footwear stays smooth and rich in texture.

Canvas shoes are lightweight and easy to clean perfect for daily wear. Start by removing the laces and brushing off any loose dirt. Mix mild detergent with lukewarm water and scrub the surface gently using a soft brush or cloth.

You can hand wash them or use a gentle machine cycle if the care label allows it. Always air dry in the shade to avoid yellow stains or fabric shrinkage. Once you master how to clean shoes made of canvas, maintaining your casual favourites becomes quick and effortless.

White shoes are stylish but also the hardest to keep spotless. The secret lies in regular cleaning and using the right methods. Mix baking soda, toothpaste, and a few drops of water into a paste. Apply it on stains, gently scrub, and leave it for 10–15 minutes before rinsing off.

This method removes dirt and restores brightness without damaging the fabric. Dry them in indirect sunlight to maintain the colour. Learning how to clean shoes that are white helps keep them bright, fresh, and ready to wear every day.

Sneakers are everyday essentials that easily pick up dirt from constant use. Start by removing the laces and insoles. Use a mild soap solution to clean the outer surface, then scrub the midsoles and soles to remove stains and grime.

For deeper cleaning, use a magic eraser on stubborn marks. Rinse lightly and air dry your sneakers completely before wearing them again. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside to deodorize them naturally. When you understand how to clean shoes like sneakers properly, they’ll stay comfortable, fresh, and stylish for longer.

How to Clean Shoe Soles and Insoles

When you think about how to clean shoes, it’s easy to focus only on the upper material leather, suede, or canvas while ignoring the soles and insoles. But in reality, these are the parts that collect the most dirt, sweat, and bacteria. Clean soles keep your shoes looking neat and performing well, while fresh insoles ensure comfort and hygiene. Learning how to clean shoes from the inside out is essential for maintaining their quality and keeping your feet healthy.

1. How to Clean Shoe Soles

The soles of your shoes bear the brunt of every step. They come in direct contact with dirt, mud, and road grime, which not only dulls their appearance but can also reduce grip and traction. Before you begin, tap the soles together outdoors to remove any loose mud or stones stuck in the treads.

Next, prepare a cleaning mixture by combining mild detergent or liquid soap with warm water. Use a medium-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the soles in circular motions. Focus on the grooves and edges, where dirt usually builds up. If the soles are white, a magic eraser can help remove stubborn stains and restore their brightness.

For deep cleaning, you can also use a mixture of baking soda and water that helps lift grime and deodorize the rubber at the same time. Once the soles are clean, wipe them down with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any residue. Let the air dry completely before wearing.
By taking the time to clean your soles properly, you’re not only improving their appearance but also adding to your understanding of how to clean shoes for long-lasting performance.

2. How to Clean and Sanitize Insoles

Insoles are the hidden part of your shoes that directly touch your feet absorbing sweat, moisture, and odour throughout the day. If not cleaned regularly, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to unpleasant smells and even foot infections. That’s why it’s equally important to know how to clean shoes from the inside as it is to clean the outside.

Start by removing the insoles from your shoes, if possible. Brush off any loose dirt or dust first. Then, prepare a mild cleaning solution with warm water and gentle detergent. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the surface of the insoles. Avoid soaking them, as too much moisture can weaken the foam or fabric.

Once cleaned, you can naturally deodorize your insoles by sprinkling baking soda over them and letting it sit overnight. This absorbs sweat and neutralizes odour. For sanitizing, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the insoles; this helps kill bacteria without leaving a strong smell.

Let the insoles air dry in a shaded area before placing them back inside your shoes. Never dry them under direct sunlight or near a heater, as this can cause them to warp or harden. Regularly cleaning and sanitizing insoles ensures that your shoes stay fresh, hygienic, and comfortable to wear all day long.

3. Why Cleaning Soles and Insoles Matters

Understanding how to clean shoes thoroughly including their soles and insoles helps maintain hygiene, comfort, and durability. Clean soles offer better traction and prevent dirt from spreading indoors, while fresh insoles keep odour away and support healthy feet.

If you wear your shoes daily, especially in warm or humid Indian weather, make it a habit to clean the insoles every two weeks and the soles weekly. This simple routine not only enhances comfort but also keeps your footwear looking and feeling brand new.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Shoes

Even though many people know the basics of how to clean shoes, small cleaning mistakes can cause long-term damage to your footwear. Every shoe material  whether leather, suede, canvas, or synthetic  needs a specific kind of care. Sometimes, what seems like a quick fix, such as drying in the sun or using a strong cleaner, can actually harm the material and reduce the shoe’s life.
To make sure your shoes stay looking fresh and last longer, it’s important to know what not to do. Here are the most common mistakes you should avoid when cleaning your shoes.

1. Using Harsh Detergents or Strong Chemicals

One of the most frequent mistakes people make while learning how to clean shoes is using harsh detergents, bleach, or cleaning sprays that are not designed for footwear. While these may seem effective at removing dirt instantly, they can also strip away the natural oils and protective coating of the material.

For example, bleach can turn white shoes yellow, and strong detergents can dry out leather, making it crack and lose its shine. Instead, always choose a mild soap, baby shampoo, or a shoe-specific cleaner. If you’re cleaning suede or nubuck, go for specialized products to protect the texture.
When you understand how to clean shoes with gentle solutions, you’ll preserve their softness, colour, and overall quality.

2. Exposing Shoes to Direct Sunlight

Drying shoes in direct sunlight might feel like the quickest way to get them ready, but it’s one of the worst things you can do. Heat from the sun can cause fading, shrinkage, and cracking especially in materials like leather or synthetic fabrics. Suede shoes, in particular, lose their velvety finish and become stiff if exposed to too much sunlight.

The correct way to dry shoes after cleaning is to place them in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated area. You can also stuff them with newspaper or tissue paper to help them retain shape and absorb excess moisture. When you’re learning how to clean shoes effectively, patience during the drying stage is key to keeping them in perfect condition.

3. Machine Washing or Drying Delicate Materials

Many people make the mistake of tossing their shoes into the washing machine for convenience. While this might work for some sturdy canvas sneakers, it’s not ideal for delicate materials such as leather, suede, or mesh. Machine washing can loosen glue, ruin stitching, and cause distortion in the shoe’s shape. Machine drying is even riskier, as the high heat can warp the soles and damage adhesives.

If you truly want to master how to clean shoes the right way, stick to hand cleaning. Use a soft brush or cloth with a mild cleaning solution to gently scrub away dirt. For canvas or running shoes, if machine washing is necessary, use a gentle cycle, cold water, and always place them in a laundry bag to reduce friction. The air dries them naturally to preserve their structure.

4. Ignoring Insoles and Laces

Another common mistake when it comes to how to clean shoes is focusing only on the outside. The insoles and laces often get overlooked, even though they collect the most sweat, bacteria, and odour. Over time, this can make even clean-looking shoes smell unpleasant.

Remove the laces and insoles before cleaning. Soak the laces in soapy water and scrub them lightly to restore their colour. For insoles, use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean the surface, then sprinkle baking soda to absorb odour. Make sure both are completely dry before putting them back. Paying attention to these small details ensures your entire shoe stays fresh, inside and out.

5. Using Too Much Water While Cleaning

While water helps in washing away dirt, using too much can harm the shoe material — especially leather or suede. Excess water can loosen adhesives, cause water stains, and make the shoes lose shape. When learning how to clean shoes, remember to use only a damp cloth or brush. Always wring out extra water before cleaning to prevent soaking the material.

After cleaning, allow the shoes to air dry slowly. Avoid rushing the process with hair dryers or heaters; they can do more harm than good.

6. Skipping Regular Maintenance

Many people wait until their shoes look visibly dirty before cleaning them. However, regular light cleaning prevents buildup of grime and keeps them looking new longer. Simply brushing off dust after every wear and wiping stains as soon as they appear makes a big difference.

If you truly understand how to clean shoes, you’ll know that maintenance is a continuous process,  not a one-time fix. Treat your shoes with care after every use, and they’ll reward you with years of comfort and style.

Pro Tips for Keeping Shoes Clean Longer

Once you’ve learned how to clean shoes properly, the next step is keeping them clean for as long as possible. Regular maintenance and smart care practices not only save time but also help your shoes look new and last longer. Whether you wear formal leather shoes, everyday sneakers, or stylish suede loafers, a few simple habits can make a big difference.
Here are some professional tips to maintain your footwear’s cleanliness and durability with minimal effort.

The most effective way to keep your shoes in great condition is by maintaining a regular cleaning routine. Instead of waiting for visible stains or dirt buildup, clean your shoes lightly after every few wears. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or a soft brush helps remove surface dust and prevents it from settling deep into the material.

If you’ve recently learned how to clean shoes, you’ll know that consistency is key. Set a weekly or biweekly shoe care schedule depending on how often you wear them. For leather shoes, a quick polish every few weeks restores shine and adds a layer of protection. For sneakers or canvas shoes, spot cleaning with mild soap maintains their colour and freshness.

Regular maintenance also prevents odour buildup and bacterial growth, making your shoes look and feel as good as new.

Proper storage plays a major role in keeping shoes clean and in good shape. Many people focus only on how to clean shoes, but forget that how you store them after cleaning matters just as much. Avoid throwing your shoes in a pile, as this can cause them to lose shape, pick up dust, or even develop creases.

Instead, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a fabric shoe bag or their original box to prevent exposure to dust and humidity. You can also place silica gel packets inside the shoe boxes to absorb moisture and prevent mold especially during humid weather.

If you own delicate materials like suede or leather, make sure they’re not touching each other in storage to avoid scratches or colour transfer. Clean storage is an extension of knowing how to clean shoes the right way.

A great way to extend the results of your cleaning routine is by using protective sprays. After you’ve learned how to clean shoes, consider investing in a high-quality waterproofing or stain-repellent spray that suits your shoe material.

These sprays create a thin, invisible barrier on the surface, making it easier to wipe away water, mud, or accidental spills before they stain. For suede or nubuck, this protection is essential because these materials absorb moisture quickly. Apply the spray after cleaning and drying your shoes, and repeat the process every few weeks for the best results.

Using protection sprays not only keeps your shoes looking spotless but also reduces the frequency of deep cleaning sessions.

Shoe trees or inserts are simple tools that make a big difference in shoe care. They help your shoes maintain their original shape and prevent wrinkles or creases from forming especially in leather footwear.

After cleaning your shoes and letting them dry naturally, insert wooden or plastic shoe trees inside. Wooden ones, such as cedar, are especially beneficial because they absorb excess moisture and keep the shoes smelling fresh.

If you’re serious about maintaining your footwear, learning how to clean shoes is only the first step, using shoe trees ensures that your shoes remain crisp, structured, and elegant for years.

Wearing the same pair every day can wear them out faster and lead to odour or deformation. Rotate your shoes regularly to give each pair time to air out and recover. This not only prolongs their life but also reduces the frequency of cleaning..

Conclusion: Keep Your Shoes Fresh, Clean, and Long-Lasting

Your footwear is an essential part of your overall look — clean shoes reflect care, discipline, and confidence. Knowing how to clean shoes properly is not just about appearance; it’s about extending their life, maintaining hygiene, and preserving comfort.

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored simple, effective methods to clean different types of shoes leather, suede, canvas, sneakers, and more. Each material demands a different approach, but the principle remains the same: gentle cleaning, proper drying, and consistent maintenance make your shoes look and feel new for longer.

Consistency is key. Make shoe care a part of your routine, brush off dust after every wear, polish regularly, use waterproofing sprays, and store shoes properly. When damage or deep stains appear, rely on professional cleaning or repair services to restore their original quality.

Now that you know how to clean shoes properly, your footwear can look fresh and last much longer. With the right tools, techniques, and attention, you can protect your shoes from everyday wear and tear while keeping them stylish and comfortable for years to come.

 Let the experts at ShoeCare by WashOn handle it. We offer professional cleaning and restoration with free pickup and delivery across Dubai, so your shoes always look their best without any of the hassle. Book your free pickup today!