How to Clean Shoes Properly for Different Materials
Good shoe cleaning starts with identifying the material. Smooth leather, nubuck, suede, textile, mesh, synthetic materials and rubber react differently to water, brushes and cleaning products. A careful method can remove dirt without unnecessarily stressing the surface, colour or adhesive bonds.
1. Identify the material
Check the upper, lining, sole and any combination of materials. A cleaner for textile or synthetic surfaces is not automatically suitable for nubuck or delicate leather. Test every product on an inconspicuous area first.
2. Remove the laces and insoles
Take out the laces and removable insoles. This makes the tongue, eyelets and edge areas easier to reach. Clean these parts separately according to the manufacturer instructions.
3. Remove loose dry dirt
Remove dust, sand and dried dirt with a soft brush or dry cloth. Work carefully around seams and sole edges. Vigorous scrubbing can roughen delicate surfaces or change the colour.
4. Use a suitable cleaner sparingly
Apply cleaner to a cloth, sponge or compatible brush instead of soaking the shoe. For many sneaker materials, the Sneaker Power Cleaner 250 ml may be suitable. The Sneaker Cleaning Sponge To Go provides a compact option. The Premium Power Foam Cleaner Set offers foam-based cleaning for compatible materials.
Always follow the product information. Do not use scouring cream, bleach, solvents, nail polish remover or other aggressive household products. They can damage colour, coatings and adhesives.
5. Adapt the method to the material
Smooth leather
Clean smooth leather with minimal moisture and a suitable product. After drying, a thin layer of compatible leather care can be applied. Find more products in the Leather Care collection.
Nubuck and suede
These raised leather surfaces require specific brushes and care products. Do not apply greasy smooth-leather creams because they can change the texture and colour.
Textile, mesh and synthetic materials
Work in sections with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid soaking the shoe, especially when it contains bonded components or several layers of mesh.
Rubber and sole edges
Sole edges are often more robust, but they should still be treated with a suitable cleaner and without aggressive abrasives.
6. Remove cleaning residue
Lift away dirt and product residue with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Repeat the process gently rather than using a large amount of water.
7. Dry at room temperature
Leave the shoes open and well ventilated until fully dry. Do not use direct heating or a hair dryer. Clean, colourfast paper can be inserted loosely to absorb moisture and support the shape.
8. Renew suitable protection
Once the shoes are completely dry, a compatible protector can help reduce moisture penetration and dirt adhesion. For selected sneakers, the Sneaker Power Protector 150 ml may be suitable. Follow the label, material compatibility and safety instructions.
Find more cleaning products in the Shoe Cleaning collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can every shoe be washed in a washing machine?
No. Only when the manufacturer explicitly permits machine washing. Without approval, manual cleaning is the safer option.
How often should shoes be cleaned?
Remove light dirt promptly. A thorough clean is useful when visible soiling is present or before applying a new protective treatment.
Can the same cleaner be used for every material?
No. Always check compatibility and test the product on an inconspicuous area.