Sneakers before gentle material-appropriate cleaning

How to Clean Sneakers Safely: Why Household Remedies Can Be Risky

Toothpaste, vinegar, baking soda, oil and hairspray are often recommended online for sneaker care. These products are not designed for shoes and can affect colour, coatings, fibres or adhesive bonds. Material-compatible cleaning is generally easier to control.

Sneakers before gentle material-compatible cleaning
Always match the cleaner to the material and colour.

Why household remedies can cause problems

The composition of toothpaste, washing-up liquid, wipes and other household products varies considerably. Abrasive particles, acids, alcohol, oils or fragrances can leave residue or damage materials. Nubuck, suede, mesh, coated surfaces and bonded constructions are particularly sensitive.

Products to avoid

  • Toothpaste and abrasives: may scratch or dull surfaces.
  • Vinegar and acidic mixtures: may affect colour, coatings and adhesives.
  • Bleach and solvents: can discolour or permanently damage materials.
  • Olive oil and cooking oils: may cause stains and uneven darkening.
  • Hairspray: is not a suitable protector and may leave deposits.
  • Printed newspaper: may transfer ink to damp interior materials.

1. Identify the material

Check whether the sneaker is made from smooth leather, nubuck, suede, textile, mesh, synthetic material, rubber or a combination. Read the care instructions and test every product on an inconspicuous area.

2. Remove dry dirt

Take out the laces and removable insoles, then remove dust and sand with a soft brush or dry cloth.

3. Use a suitable cleaner sparingly

For many compatible materials, the Sneaker Power Cleaner 250 ml may be suitable. The Sneaker Cleaning Sponge To Go provides compact care. Apply the product to a cloth, sponge or soft brush and avoid soaking the shoes.

4. Treat soles and uppers separately

Rubber is often more robust than textile, mesh or leather. Do not use aggressive abrasives and avoid transferring cleaner to an incompatible surface.

5. Remove residue and allow drying

Wipe away dirt with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Leave the shoes open to dry at room temperature. Avoid heaters, hair dryers and strong sunlight.

6. Refresh white areas if required

On compatible white surfaces, Sneaker White 75 ml can visually cover yellowed areas, small scratches and uneven spots.

7. Add suitable protection

After complete drying, the Sneaker Power Protector 150 ml can help reduce moisture and dirt adhesion on compatible materials. Follow the label and use it in a well-ventilated area.

Find more products in the Sneaker Care and Shoe Cleaning collections.

Frequently asked questions

Is mild soap always safe?

No. Even a mild product may contain dyes or leave residue. Always test compatibility.

Can sneakers be machine washed?

Only when the manufacturer explicitly permits it. Otherwise, manual cleaning is safer.

What about valuable or delicate sneakers?

Avoid experiments. Professional cleaning is preferable for unknown materials or valuable models.

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