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How to Wash Superga Sneakers

September 1, 2024

Superga is an Italian footwear company that’s known for its tennis shoes.

About Superga

Superga was founded in 1911 by Walter Martiny, who began his career producing rubber-soled footwear.

In 2011, the Steve Madden Corporation acquired the license to sell and distribute its products in North America. Not long afterwards, they opened their first store in Soho, New York City.


About Superga’s Footwear Collection

Superga sells a variety of sneakers including platforms, lace-ups, slip-ons, and high tops. They also have an organic shoe collection, which features an organic canvas cotton upper and an all-natural rubber outsole.

how to wash superga sneakers

Compared to other brands, their products are also affordable. It depends on the style but generally speaking, you’re looking at around $65 to $90 for a pair. They also have a clearance section where you can take advantage of extra discounts.


Taking Care of Superga Footwear

Their products are made from durable materials, which are designed to withstand everyday wear. Like all shoes, however, they’ll inevitably get dirty. To prevent that, it’s highly recommended that you use a shoe-protectant spray. It’ll provide an invisible coating, which will protect the material from water, dirt, and stains.


What Materials Are Their Shoes Made Of?

Their shoes are made from various materials from cotton to moleskin. Here’s what you need to know.

Cotton

organic cotton

Cotton is hypoallergenic, which makes it ideal for those who suffer from allergies. It’s also comfortable, lightweight, and easy to clean. On top of that, it’s fully breathable (ie. your feet will remain cooler in hot conditions). The only drawback is that it tends to shrink if exposed to heat.

Moleskin

Moleskin is a heavy woven cotton fabric that’s brushed and sheared on one side. Not only will it stand up against tough winds and chills, but it’s also breathable.

Suede

Suede is a type of leather that’s known for its fuzzy finish. Made from the underside of animal skin, it’s incredibly soft, lightweight, and luxurious. The thinness of the material also gives it a smooth, appealing appearance. Compared to other materials, however, it tends to get dirty easily.


How to Wash Superga Sneakers

Here’s how to wash their classic sneakers:

Throwing Superga Shoes In the Washer

Their classic sneakers can be machine-washed, ideally with a few towels to balance the load.

Step 1: Remove the Laces and Remove Excess Dirt

white laces

Take out the shoelaces and wash them separately with soapy water. Using a soft bristle brush, remove any excess dirt from the shoes, then place them in a mesh laundry bag.

Step 2: Place the Shoes In the Washer

shoes in washer

Make sure the mesh bag is closed and toss it in the washer.

For the best results, wash the shoes separately from your clothes. However, you can add a few towels to balance the weight so that the cycle will run more smoothly.

Step 3: Add Detergent

active detergent

Measure one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent powder and add it directly to the drum. Make sure not to add too much as soap residue can build up, trapping dirt and debris.

Do not use chlorine bleach or oxygen bleach as they can damage the material.

Step 4: Run the Washer

washing machine settings

Run a delicate wash cycle; it will minimize the amount of agitation, keeping your shoes looking like new. Be sure to use cold water as hot water can damage the adhesives holding the rubber sole together.

Step 5: Let Them Air Dry

air dry superga sneakers

After washing, let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area.

You can speed up the process by using a dehumidifier or fan. Stuffing the shoes with crumpled newspaper will also help soak up the excess water.

Supply:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Laundry bag
  • A few towels
  • Dehumidifier or fan (optional)
  • Newspaper (optional)

Wait until the shoes are fully dry, usually between 8-12 hours, before putting the laces back in.

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Hand Washing Superga Shoes

You can also clean your Superga shoes by hand – you just need a sink or tub that’s large enough for them to fit comfortably.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Old toothbrush (optional)
  • Newspaper (optional)

Step 1:

Fill a large sink or tub with cold water and mix in a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a cleaning solution.

You may have to swish the water with your hands to help dissolve the powder.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 2:

Take out the laces and place them in the cleaning solution, then do the same with the shoes.

If necessary, use an old soft toothbrush to remove excess dirt from the upper and soles.

scrub with old toothbrush

Step 3:

Let everything soak for 15-20 minutes; that’ll get rid of any dirt and mud that’s embedded in the fabric.

soapy mixture

Step 4:

After soaking, rinse the shoes and laces thoroughly with cold water. Continue until there are no more soap suds.

running water kitchen

Step 5:

Wipe the shoes with a clean cloth so they’re not dripping wet, then place them in a well-ventilated space so they can dry naturally.

Consider stuffing the inside with newspaper to speed up the process.

crumpled newspapers

Don’t put your Superga footwear in the dryer – the high temperature will destroy the adhesives holding the shoes together.

Spot Treating Your Superga Shoes

Shoes that can’t be machine washed should be spot-treated. Our preferred stain remover is ACTIVE Detergent.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Damp cloth
activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 1:

Fill a small bowl with water, then mix in a small amount of ACTIVE Detergent to create a spot-cleaning solution.

spot treat shoe

Step 2:

Using a soft bristled brush, apply the detergent mixture onto the problem area.

Gently rub it into the shoe with small, circular motions, then leave it for 15-20 minutes.

clean with damp cloth1

Step 3:

Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth, then let it air dry.

You may need to leave the detergent mixture on for longer if you’re dealing with white canvas shoes.


How to Wash Superga Slip-Ons

Their slip-ons can be washed similarly to the classics (assuming that the particular model is machine washable).

Machine Washing Superga Slip-Ons

The slip-ons can also be run through the washing machine. Here’s how to do it.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Laundry bag
  • A few towels
  • Fan or dehumidifier (optional)

Step 1:

Remove excess dirt from the surface of the shoes using a soft bristle brush, then place them in a laundry bag before loading them in the washer.

Don’t put the shoes directly into the machine as they will get damaged during the wash cycle.

clothes in laundry bag

Step 2:

Add a few towels to help balance the weight. It’ll prevent the slip-ons from getting tossed around, which can damage both the shoes and washing machine.

add towels1

Step 3:

Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and run a delicate wash cycle.

Make sure to use cold water as hot water can cause permanent damage to the shoe material. Not only is it bad for the adhesives but it can also warp and shrink the upper material.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 4:

Let the shoes air dry after washing. You can speed up the process by placing them in front of a fan or a dehumidifier.

Keep in mind that it can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours for them to dry completely.

Don’t leave them out in the sun as UV rays can cause the fabric to fade.

superga slipons

Avoid using chlorine or non-chlorine bleach when washing your Superga slip-ons.


Hand-Washing Superga Slip-Ons In the Sink

If you don’t have a washer or don’t want to run the machine, you can also wash them by hand.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Towel
  • Newspaper (optional)
activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 1:

Fill a sink with cool water, then add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a cleaning solution. You will need to agitate the water to dissolve the powder.

soapy water in tub

Step 2:

Place the slip-ons in the solution after removing any dirt with a soft bristle brush.

Make sure the shoes are completely saturated with the detergent mixture and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.

running water kitchen

Step 3:

Rinse the slip-ons thoroughly with cold water after soaking. Continue for 1-2 minutes, until all soap suds are gone.

superga slip ons

Step 4:

Wipe the outside of the shoes with a clean towel so they’re not dripping wet, then let them dry naturally indoors.

You can place crumpled newspapers inside the shoes to speed up the drying process.


Removing Smells From Your Superga Footwear

It’s not uncommon for shoes to develop an odor with regular wear. Here’s how you can eliminate the smell.

Supplies:

  • Baking soda
  • Damp cloth

Step 1:

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda into each shoe and let it sit overnight.

add baking soda 1

Step 2:

Remove the powder in the morning. If necessary, you can wipe the footbed clean with a damp cloth.

clean with damp cloth1

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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.

Comment (1)

  • Cyndi Kern Reply

    How do I get stains out of the toes of the shoes. Can I use white shoe polish?

    May 23, 2023 at 2:33 pm

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