Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Oiled Leather Tobacco Brown

How to care for sneakers and make them last

The right care keeps sneakers in good shape for a long time, whether you wear everyday models or limited pieces for your collection. The basics are simple: clean them promptly, let them dry naturally and rotate your pairs. Let sneakers dry for at least 24 hours between wears. You'll find a step-by-step guide in our sneaker care guide.

How to clean sneakers by material

• Leather: wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Once dry, apply a leather cream or conditioner so it doesn't crack.
• Synthetic leather: a damp cloth with a little washing-up liquid is enough. Don't use solvents.
• Patent leather: wipe with a clean damp cloth and buff with a dry microfibre cloth. Avoid stiff brushes, they can scratch the surface.
• Suede and nubuck: don't soak them. Clean with a dry rubber brush or a suede eraser and finish with a protector spray. More detail in our suede cleaning guide.
• Textile, canvas and mesh: clean with a soft brush, lukewarm water and mild soap. Don't scrub too hard.
• Knit uppers: clean gently, without pressure, so the fibres don't get pulled.
• Rubber outsole and midsole: scrub with a brush and a paste of baking soda and water. A melamine sponge also works well on white soles.
• Laces and insoles: wash the laces by hand or in a laundry bag. Wash the insoles with soap and water and let them dry completely.

What not to do with sneakers

• Don't put them in the washing machine or tumble dryer – heat and water damage the glue and the shape.
• Don't dry them on a radiator or in direct sunlight. Foam slides and Foam Runners can even shrink in the heat, see Yeezy Slide and Foam Runner care.
• Don't use bleach or harsh chemicals.

Drying, protection and storage

Dry sneakers at room temperature with paper or an absorbent cloth inside. We recommend applying a protector spray before the first wear and renewing it every few weeks. Store them in a dry, ventilated place out of direct sunlight, ideally in the original box.

FAQ

Can I wash sneakers in the washing machine?

No, a washing machine can damage the glue, the shape and the materials. We recommend cleaning them by hand with a brush, lukewarm water and mild soap.

How do I clean white sneakers?

Clean the upper with a brush and soapy water, and the sole with a baking soda paste or a melamine sponge. Then let the sneakers dry at room temperature.

How do I clean suede sneakers?

Dry, with a rubber brush or a suede eraser. Don't soak them, and use a protector spray after cleaning.

How do I prevent toe creases?

Use crease protectors, put shoe trees in after wearing them and choose the right size.

How do I get rid of sneaker odour?

Air them out, sprinkle baking soda inside overnight (tap it out in the morning) and, if you wear them often, rotate your pairs.

How long do sneakers take to dry?

Usually 12 to 24 hours at room temperature. Never dry them on a radiator.

Need advice on a specific model? Message us, we're happy to help. Your PureKickz.cz team