Sneakers are more than just footwear—they’re a style statement. Whether you’ve invested in high-end trainers or simply love your everyday kicks, proper care is essential to keep them looking fresh and feeling comfortable. The following are tips for maintaining your sneakers and extending their lifespan:
- Rotate your sneakers
Wearing the same pair of sneakers daily can lead to accelerated wear and tear. By rotating your collection, you allow each pair to air out and recover from the rigours of daily use. This habit reduces odour build-up and helps prevent premature deterioration.
- Clean them regularly
- Wipe off dirt immediately: As soon as you spot dirt or stains, wipe them off with a damp cloth. This prevents grime from settling into the material.
- Deep cleaning: For more thorough cleaning, use a soft brush (or an old toothbrush) and a solution of mild soap mixed with warm water. Gently scrub the surface and rinse with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking the sneakers, as excessive moisture can damage the material and loosen adhesives.
- For white soles: A magic eraser works wonders to restore white soles to their original brilliance.
- Invest in quality products
- Protective sprays: Apply a water- and stain-repellent spray to new sneakers and reapply periodically. This creates a barrier against liquids and dirt.
- Specialised cleaners: Use cleaners designed for specific materials, such as suede, leather, or canvas. Generic cleaners may be too harsh and cause damage.
- Proper storage
- Avoid piling shoes: Stackable storage boxes or shoe racks are ideal for maintaining your sneakers’ shape. Avoid cramming them into tight spaces where they can be squashed.
- Insert shoe trees: For leather and suede sneakers, using shoe trees can help retain their shape and reduce creasing.
- Keep them dry: Store sneakers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or damp areas to prevent discolouration and mould growth.
- Handle laces and insoles
Remove and wash laces separately to give your sneakers an instant refresh. Insoles can also be removed and cleaned or replaced to keep your shoes odour-free.
- Be mindful of when and where you wear them
Avoid wearing your prized sneakers in rough or muddy terrain. Consider reserving certain pairs for casual outings and others for more active use. For rainy weather, invest in waterproof trainers or protect your sneakers with reusable covers.
- Repair, don’t discard
If your sneakers show signs of wear, don’t rush to replace them. Minor issues like loose stitching, worn soles, or small scuffs can often be repaired by a cobbler or with DIY kits available online.
- Know when to let go
Despite the best care, some sneakers will eventually outlive their prime. When this happens, consider donating them if they’re still wearable or recycling them through sustainable programmes to give them a second life.
Your footwear speaks volumes about you—why not ensure they always make the right impression?