Introduction: Athletic shoes not only provide support and comfort during exercise but also have become a popular choice for everyday wear. Like any other footwear, athletic shoes also accumulate dirt over time, and it’s essential to maintain their cleanliness for optimum performance and durability. Follow these 12 steps to effectively clean your athletic shoes.

1.Remove loose dirt: Start by removing any loose dirt or debris from the shoes using a dry brush or cloth. Focus on areas like the sole, edges, and grooves where dirt is likely to accumulate.

2.Remove the laces: Take out the laces to clean them separately and reach difficult spots on the shoe.

3.Clean laces: Mix mild laundry detergent in a bowl of warm water, soak the laces for a few minutes, and then gently scrub them using an old toothbrush. Rinse with clear water and lay them flat to air-dry.

4.Prepare cleaning solution: Mix a mild dish detergent or sneaker cleaner with warm water in a bowl.

5.Scrub the exterior: Start cleaning the main part of the shoe using an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush dipped in your cleaning solution. Gently scrub in circular motions, focusing on dirty areas like seams and stitching.

6.Wipe down: Use a damp cloth to wipe off any remaining soapy residue from your shoes

7.Clean insoles: Remove the insoles if they’re removable and use your brush with cleaning solution to scrub away any dirt or odor-causing bacteria on the surface of the insole.

8.Air out insoles: Rinse thoroughly under water and leave your insoles to air-dry separately.

9.Wash mesh fabric (optional): If your shoes have mesh parts that require extra cleaning, use a mesh-specific detergent or cleaner to gently wash those areas by following the manufacturer’s instructions

10.Rinse and dry: Once all parts of your shoes have been cleaned, ensure they are thoroughly rinsed and patted dry with a clean towel.

11.Air-dry your shoes: Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators, as these can damage the materials in your shoes. Instead, place your shoes in a well-ventilated area and let them air-dry naturally.

12.Reassemble: Once everything is completely dry, reinsert the insoles and re-lace your shoes.

Conclusion: Regularly cleaning your athletic shoes not only keeps them looking fresh but also helps prolong their lifespan. With these 12 steps in mind, you can confidently maintain the cleanliness of your favorite athletic shoes while ensuring they remain comfortable and functional for years to come.