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How to Clean & Deodorize Nike Shoes

February 3, 2024

Nike manufactures a variety of shoes for men, women, and children. For example, they have collections for running, basketball, tennis, skateboarding, golf, and football. They also have casual shoes, as well as slides and sandals, which are meant for everyday wear.

A Look at the Different Nike Shoe Brands/Lines

Here are some of their most popular shoe models.

Nike Flyknit

The Nike Flyknit is made from a blend of yarn and fabric and is formfitting with a seamless upper. It’s also extremely lightweight, with the upper and tongue weighing only 34 grams.

Nike Free RN 5.0

Nike’s Free RN shoes are unique in that they are designed for a barefoot-like feel. Not only are they flexible but they come with a single mesh layer that provides a considerable amount of stretch.

nike free rn

It also comes with less foam in the midsole, which makes it easier for you to run.

Nike Metcon

The Nike Metcon features a strong platform that provides stability and a flexible forefoot that allows for natural movement. It also has a 3D-printed upper, which boosts durability.

Not only is it ideal for running and training but it’s also great for rope climbs.

Nike Trainer

Nike offers a variety of trainers that are ideal for most sports. They are built for performance, these shoes deliver cutting-edge technologies that make your workouts easier.

Nike Zoom

Nike Zoom is built for runners. Not only do they come with a full-length Zoom Air unit, which provides responsive cushioning, but they also feature a seamless Flymesh fabric .

nike zoom

The rubber outsole is also engineered for impact absorption.

Nike ZoomX

The Nike ZoomX features foam cushioning that is designed to maximize speed and energy return (up to 85%).

It’s also softer, lighter, and more responsive than their other foams.


How to Wash Nike Shoes the Right Way

There are a few ways to wash Nike Shoes – you just need a cleaning solution or some mild laundry detergent.

Are Nike Shoes Machine Washable?

Yes, most Nike shoes can be put in the washing machine.

Keep in mind, however, there are exceptions, like their suede collection.

Step 1: Remove the Laces

remove laces

First things first, remove the shoelaces from the shoes; you want to wash them separately in a mesh laundry bag.

Step 2: Place the Shoes In the Washer

clothes in laundry bag

Place the shoes in a large mesh laundry bag and put them in the washer. Do the same with the laces.

Step 3: Run a Delicate Cycle

washing machine settings

Add a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent into the basin and run a delicate wash cycle with cold water.

Step 4: Let Them Air Dry

air dry nikes

Once the cycle is finished, lay the shoes and laces in a well-ventilated area and allow them to air dry.

Supply:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Laundry bag

Avoid putting your Nike shoes in the dryer; they are not designed to withstand high heat.

active det transparent shadow

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Cleaning Nike Shoes by Hand

You can also clean your Nike shoes by hand. If anything, it’ll be gentler than machine washing.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Water
  • Microfiber cloth

Step 1:

Gently scrub the sole with a soft-bristled shoe brush or damp cloth – the goal is to remove all of the excess dirt.

You can also knock off some of the dirt by gently hitting the shoes against each other.

shoe soles

Step 2:

Fill a sink with lukewarm warm water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a soapy mixture.

Carefully place the insoles in and let them soak. Do the same with the shoelaces.

soapy water

Step 3:

In a small bowl, mix some warm water with a small amount of ACTIVE Detergent.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 4:

Apply some of the cleaning solution to a soft cloth and use it to clean the dirty areas on the surface of the shoe. 

Rinse the detergent off the cloth or brush when you’re finished.

apply solution

You can speed up the drying process by stuffing newspapers into each shoe.


Best Ways to Deodorize and Clean Nike Shoes

There are a few ways to de-stink your running shoes, which we will be going over below.

Deodorizing with Baking Soda

Baking soda has cleansing properties and can remove the contaminants that are responsible for the stinky shoe odor.

Supplies:

  • Baking soda
add baking soda 3

Step 1:

Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of baking soda into each shoe.

nike shoes

Step 2:

Leave the powder in the shoes overnight – that will give the baking soda plenty of time to do its magic.

By the next morning, the odor should be gone.


Deodorizing with White Vinegar

White vinegar is mildly acidic and can also be used to neutralize odors.

Supplies:

  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Spray bottle

Step 1:

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

fill spray bottle

Step 2:

Spray the vinegar solution onto the shoes. Allow them to dry completely afterwards.

apply spray 1

Deodorizing with Essential Oils

Essential oils are anti-microbial and are known for their strong fragrances, which can help eliminate the stink.

Supplies:

  • Essential oil
  • Tissue paper
essential oil

Step 1:

Choose an essential oil of your choice (e.g. lavender oil, clove oil, tea tree oil, etc.) and add 3 to 4 drops to the inside of your shoes.

Be careful not to put it on the surface as there’s a possibility of discoloration.

tissue paper

Step 2:

Cover the sneakers with some tissue paper and leave it overnight. The smell should be gone by the morning.


Deodorizing with Tea Bags

Tea bags also come in handy for eliminating odors.

Supplies:

  • Tea bags
  • Boiling water

Step 1:

Start by preparing the tea bags – simply place them in boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes.

tea bag

Step 2:

Remove them from the heat afterwards and let them cool for at least 10 minutes before putting them in each of your shoes.

Leave the tea bags in there overnight. Like magic, they will reduce the smell inside your shoes. Remove the bags the next morning.

nike air

Easiest Methods to Prevent Your Nike Shoes From Smelling

There are a few things that you can do to prevent odors from developing. For example, it helps to dry your shoes completely between wearings.

And if you can, try to avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row. If necessary, you can also apply foot powder before wearing your sneakers.


Washing Nike Shoes – FAQs

Are Nike running shoes machine washable?

Yes, most of their running shoes are machine washable. If necessary, you can also remove stains by spot-treating the area with a laundry detergent solution.

Is it better to hand-wash Nike shoes?

Hand washing your Nike sneakers will always be gentler than machine washing.
With that said it’s fine to machine wash your Nike shoes every once in a while. For one thing, it can be a lot more convenient.

Can you put Nike shoes in the clothes dryer?

No, you should never put your Nike shoes in the dryer. Not only will the heat damage the materials but it can also melt the glue that’s holding certain parts together.
Let your shoes air dry instead, ideally in a well-ventilated area. You can also dry them outdoors.

What detergent should you use for Nike shoes?

ACTIVE Detegent is the best option as it contains enzymes that are capable of dissolving the dirt and oils on your shoes. It can also be used to spot treat different areas.

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Picture of Sophia Grant

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.

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