How to clean your used shoes

Buying worn shoes is a cost-effective method to add to your shoe collection or score a pair of vintage treasures. However, giving those used shoes a good cleaning before wearing them out is imperative. Cleaning old shoes guarantees that they are hygienic and comfortable to wear in addition to improving their appearance. This article will provide you with a step-by-step tutorial on how to thoroughly clean used shoes with an emphasis on maintaining the condition of your shoes.

Step 1: Compile Your Materials

Gathering all the required equipment is essential before you start the cleaning process. You’ll require:

a. A gentle toothbrush

b. Shoe cleaning or mild detergent

c. Hot water

d. Sanitized sponges or rags

e. White vinegar (for cleaning purposes)

f. Baking soda (to get rid of odors)

g. Shoe tree or torn newspaper (to keep shoes in condition)

h. Leather conditioner, waterproofing spray, and polish are optional.

Step 2: Clean Up Surface Grit and Garbage

Start by cleaning the shoes of any loose dirt and debris. Brush off dirt, dust, and cobwebs with a soft brush or toothbrush. Be sure to inspect all seams, cracks, and challenging-to-reach places. This action is necessary to stop dirt from being embedded into the material while it is being cleaned.

Step 3: Evaluation of Shoe Material Your Used Shoes

Different cleaning techniques are needed for different shoe materials. How to care for typical shoe materials is as follows:

a. Use a leather cleaning or a solution of mild detergent and water on leather shoes. Use a clean cloth or sponge and the cleanser to gently scrub the surface in circular motions.

b. Suede shoes are delicate and need special care. To remove stains and scratches gently, use a suede brush or an eraser. Water shouldn’t be used on suede since it could leave stains. Consult a professional cleaner for tough stains.

 c. Shoes made of canvas typically hold up well to washing. Warm water and mild detergent should be combined before cleaning the surface with a cloth or sponge. To prevent fabric damage, scrub carefully.

Step 4. Address Stains and Odors Your Used Shoes

Used shoes frequently have concerns with odors and stubborn stains. This is how to approach them:

a. Stains:

Mix baking soda and water to make a paste for stubborn stains. Apply the paste to the affected areas, then wait 15 to 30 minutes before wiping it off. Next, use a soft brush or towel to cleanse the area gently. Thoroughly rinse.

b. Odors:

Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes to absorb odors and leave it there overnight. Baking soda aids in odor neutralization and moisture absorption. The next day, shake away any extra baking soda.

Step 5. Cleanse And Dry Your Used Shoes

It’s crucial to disinfect your used shoes in order to make sure they’re hygienic. Cleaning the inside of the shoes requires a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water and a towel or sponge. Using vinegar as a natural disinfectant can help get rid of bacteria and germs that cause odors.

After cleaning, let your shoes totally air dry. Avoid heat sources and direct sunshine since they can harm some textiles, including leather. Use a shoe tree or pack your shoes with crumpled newspaper to keep their form while they dry.

Step 6. Condition and Protect (Optional)

If the leather in your worn shoes has dried entirely, you might want to think about treating them. By restoring moisture and suppleness to the leather, the leather conditioner helps keep it from drying out and becoming brittle. In order to shield your shoes from moisture and stains, you may also spray them with a waterproof coating.

Step 7. Shine and Polish Your Used Shoes (Optional)

Shining and polishing are the final steps for leather footwear. Pick a shoe polish that complements the hue of your shoes, then use a clean cloth or brush to apply it in a circular motion. For a final, polished look, buff the shoes until they are shiny.

It is rewarding to clean used shoes because it not only improves their appearance but also makes them clean and hygienic to wear. You can bring your previously owned footwear back to its former glory by following the instructions provided in this tutorial. Don’t forget to inspect the shoe material, adjust your cleaning strategy as necessary, and disinfect the interior to preserve cleanliness. Your worn shoes can continue to serve you well for numerous further fashionable occasions with the right maintenance.