Blog
How to Clean & Deodorize Running Shoes
January 10, 2024
-
By
Sophia Grant
Running shoes are a must if you plan on running. Unlike regular shoes, they’re designed to reduce the amount of stress that is placed on the ankles, heels, and toes.
Not only that but they’re also made of lightweight materials, which means you’ll be able to run much faster with less effort.
How to Choose a Pair of Running Shoes
Choosing a good pair of running shoes can be tricky. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re choosing a pair:
- Make sure there is enough room for your toes; there should be a thumb’s width between the shoe and the top of your toe
- Check the shoe’s width; you want to have enough space so that you can spread out your feet
- The shoe should comfortably wrap around your foot
- Check for any irritation spots – these can easily lead to blisters.
Remember, an ill-fitting running shoe can lead to potential injury.
These are some of the top brands of running shoes that we recommend:
Caring for Running Shoes
Running shoes take quite a beating on the road, which makes sense, seeing as how they come into contact with a variety of surfaces from cement to grass.
Given that, it only makes sense that they’d get dirty.
Unless you want mud-stained shoes, it’s best to wash running shoes every once in a while, ideally once every six months. This goes for all shoe brands, including Adidas running shoes.
How to Clean Running Shoes
The best way to wash a pair of running shoes is to do so by hand.
Step 1: Remove Surface Dirt
Start by getting rid of the dirt and mud on the surface. You can do this using an old toothbrush; you can also hit the shoes gently against themselves.
Step 2: Wipe the Outer Surface
Dampen a clean cloth and use it to wipe the outer surface of the shoe.
Step 3: Wash Insoles and Liners Separately
Remove the insoles and liners and wash them separately; the shoelaces can be removed as well. Wash them either by hand or put them in the washing machine.
Step 4: Clean With ACTIVE Detergent
Mix a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent with water in a tub or a container. Using an old toothbrush, apply the solution to the shoe and gently scrub to get rid of any grime. Do the same with the soles.
Step 5: Wipe Dry
Wipe the surface and sole dry with a damp soft cloth. Stuff the shoes with crumpled newspaper when you’re finished; the paper will help to prevent the build-up of moisture.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Old toothbrush
- Damp cloth
- Newspapers
Do not put your running shoes under direct sunlight—the UV rays can damage the fabric.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Formulated to eliminate odors from sweat and body oils in your running shoes.
Can You Put Running Shoes in the Washing Machine?
It’s best to hand wash your running shoes. With that said, you can machine wash them if you take the proper steps. Here’s how to do it.
Supplies:
- Baking soda
- Laundry bag
- Old toothbrush
- A few towels
- ACTIVE Detergent
Step 1:
Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda in each shoe the night before – that will help eliminate any odors.
Remove the powder in the morning.
Step 2:
Take out the shoelaces and put them in a mesh bag – that will keep them together and prevent them from becoming tangled.
Next, wipe off any dirt or mud from the surface using an old toothbrush.
Step 3:
Place the running shoes in their own mesh laundry bag before loading them into the machine.
For the best results, add a few towels. They will balance the load and prevent the shoes from slamming against the inside, which can damage the washer.
Step 4:
Add half a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot or warm water.
Step 5:
Remove the running shoes from the machine once the cycle is finished.
Place them on a clean surface and allow them to air dry.
Never put them in the dryer – the heat will likely damage the glue that keeps it together.
The Best Ways to Remove Stains From Your Running Shoes
Here are a few ways to tackle stubborn stains:
Using Baking Soda and Vinegar
Using baking soda and vinegar is a great way to remove stubborn stains from your shoes. Here’s how to do it.
Supplies:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Old toothbrush
- Clean cloth
Step 1:
Gently scrub off any dried stains with an old toothbrush. Be gentle; you don’t want to damage the surface of the shoe.
Step 2:
Create a paste by mixing one part vinegar with one part baking soda and apply a small amount onto the stain using a clean cloth.
Step 3:
Leave the mixture on for at least 15 minutes (longer if necessary) and wipe off with a cloth afterward.
If necessary, you can also rinse the stain with cool water afterwards.
Use a Magic Eraser
Most running shoes can be cleaned with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
Supplies:
- Magic Eraser
- Water
Step 1:
Start by wetting the product to activate the inner micro-scrubbers.
Step 2:
Gently squeeze out the extra water before using it on scuffs and stuck-on dirt.
From there, simply swipe the eraser across the area – the stains should come out easily.
Always test the product with an inconspicuous area first. Do not use it with other types of household cleaners.
Use Laundry Detergent and Water
ACTIVE Detergent isn’t just for washing, it can also be used to remove stains.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Old toothbrush
- Paper towels (optional)
Step 1:
In a small bowl, mix a bit of ACTIVE Detergent with water.
Step 2:
Using an old toothbrush, apply the solution to the stain. If necessary, you can brush the area gently with the brush.
Step 3:
Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes. Blot it dry afterwards with a cloth or a paper towel and allow the shoe to dry.
You can also use mild dish soap in a pinch.
Alternative Solution: Use a Commercial Stain Remover
In some cases, you might need a commercial stain remover.
Just make sure that it is compatible with your running shoes or trail runners before applying. Depending on the product, you might need to rinse off the cleaning solution with water afterward.
How to Deodorize Dirty Running Shoes – Remove Stinky Odors
It’s not uncommon for running shoes to develop odors, especially if you’ve worn them for a long time. Here are a few ways to get the stink out:
Put them in the Freezer
The cold temperatures in the freezer will kill off many odor-causing contaminants that are on your shoes.
Supplies:
- Large pillowcase
Step 1:
Slip the shoes into a pillowcase and place them in the freezer.
Step 2:
Remove the shoes from the freezer the next morning; the smell should be gone.
You can also put your shoes in a large freezer bag (assuming they fit).
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great deodorizing agent that most of us already have in the kitchen.
Supplies:
- Baking soda
Step 1:
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the shoes.
Step 2:
Leave the powder inside overnight before removing the following morning.
You can clap the shoes together upside down to remove any remaining powder.
Use Cat Litter
Believe it or not but you can also deodorize your shoes with kitty litter.
Supplies:
- Cat litter
- A pair of socks
Step 1:
Stuff each sock with unused kitty litter.
Seal the socks with knots and stuff them inside your running shoes. Leave them in overnight.
Step 2:
Remove them the next morning; the odor should be gone by then.
Using a Commercial Odor-Removing Spray
There are a variety of deodorizing sprays that you can get in stores. They are specially formulated for tackling odors, with many containing special ingredients such as enzymes, which can eat away at the odor-causing contaminants.
Simply follow the instructions on the bottle and apply them to your shoes.
Using Cedar Wood Insoles
Cedar wood is naturally anti-fungal; it also smells fresh and light, which makes it a great deodorizing agent.
If the smell is a recurrent issue, you might want to consider investing in a pair of cedar wood insoles. Simply put them inside your running shoes and they will smell fresh for longer.
SAVE
15% off
Your Next ACTIVE
Purchase on Amazon
Limited Time Offer
Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
Similar posts
