How to Clean Your Shoes

Cleaning your running shoes can help prolong the life of your shoes and also help to maintain the appearance.

Can you wash running shoes?

You can wash your running shoes, but the cleaning process will likely depend on the shoe and its materials. ASICS incorporates a variety of materials into the construction of its shoes. If you’re not careful about how you wash your ASICS running shoes, you could cause the colors of the shoes to fade or ruin the shape of the shoe.

How often should running shoes be washed?

Any wash routine will depend on your shoe and running style. If you’re more likely to be around muck and dirt, you’ll likely need to wash your shoes more than an indoor treadmill runner. Some runners will take a damp cloth and wipe down their shoes after each run.

“I clean my running shoes almost weekly for two reasons,” said Christof De Schaepmeester , an ASICS FrontRunner member. “First of all, gear that you maintain well is more sustainable. This means you will enjoy your favorite shoes longer. Second, I just can't stand running in dirty running shoes. Well cared, beautiful and colorful shoes on my feet help me stay motivated to run.”

7 steps to cleaning your running shoes

Knowing how to clean your running shoes effectively is the best way to maintain a pair’s lifespan and appearance. Wash your running shoes with gentle cleaners and never put them in the washer or dryer.

You can follow the steps below to bring your shoes back to life.

“It doesn't need much,” said Schaepmeester . “Only a rough brush and some water is enough to keep your shoes clean. When you regularly do it, this doesn't take more than a few minutes. Personally I have one rule that helps me. All my running shoes are on a white shoe rack and the rule is simple, no dirty shoes on the rack. So after every run, a quick wash at the sink and they can go back to the rack.”

The method below can also be used to clean your ASICS Work Boots. We recommend that you leave the BOA® Fit System intact and loosen it adequately before cleaning.

Step 1: Gather and prepare your cleaning supplies

In order to clean your running shoes properly, you’re going to need a few supplies.

• A soft-bristled brush, such as a vegetable brush or old toothbrush
• A sink or bucket of warm water
• A mild soap or detergent, plus a special cleaner for GORE-TEX® or other waterproof materials on the uppers
• A sponge
• Paper towels
• Optional for sockliners: A paste made from baking soda and water, or a half vinegar/half water solution

A mild soap or detergent with a special cleaner for GORE-TEX® is great for the waterproof materials on a shoes’ outer parts. You could use a soft toothbrush or a soft sponge to clean them.

Step 2: Remove your shoelaces and sockliners

While cleaning your running shoes, remove the shoelaces and sockliners. It’s important to remove these items from your shoes to access and clean those areas. This self-cleansing method prevents potential damage. Leaving sockliners in the shoes can ruin the fabric and structure needed to support your feet. Please note: For our ASICS Work & Safety Boots, we recommend that you leave the BOA® Fit System intact and loosen it adequately before cleaning.

Step 3: Wash the outsoles of your running shoes

Washing the outsoles of your running shoes properly is important. Wash them with warm water and light soap. Be sure to use the recommended cleaners.

1. Make sure the outsoles are dry.
2. Use a brush to remove dirt and mud, dipping it in warm water when necessary.
3. Scrub any remaining debris with a wet, soapy sponge.

Step 4: Wash the uppers of your running shoes

Properly washing your running shoes may extend the pair’s lifespan. Depending on the type of fabric, the best way to wash your running shoes will differ.

For fabric, mesh or canvas uppers:

1. Gently scrub your uppers with a sponge dipped in warm, soapy water.
2. Rinse with warm water. Avoid fully submerging, as this can cause damage to the uppers.
3. Use a wet towel to wipe clean.

For waterproof, breathable materials, such as GORE-TEX®:

1. Gently wash your uppers with a special cleaner made for breathable materials.
2. Re-apply your chosen water repellent treatment.

For leather, suede, or nubuck uppers,

you should use a specially-designed cleaner. Soap and water can be harmful to these materials.

Step 5: Wash the sockliners of your running shoes

Once the uppers are clean, you can wash the sockliners. Use different cleaning solutions to wash your sockliners.

1. Scrub the sockliners’ surface with a brush.

2. Remove excess dirt and grime with a sponge dipped in a cleaning solution.

Step 6: Wash your shoelaces

Washing your shoelaces separate from your running shoes can renew a pairs’ appearance. If you don't take them out, the laces will never be fully cleansed.

1. Remove dirt and debris using a brush dipped in warm, soapy water.
2. For tougher stains, submerge your laces in warm water and continue brushing.

Please note: For our ASICS Work & Safety Boots, we recommend that you leave the BOA® Fit System intact and loosen it adequately before cleaning.

Step 7: Let your shoes air-dry

Letting your running shoes air-dry is important for keeping the structure intact. Do not put your shoes in the dryer or near any heat source because high temperatures could ruin the materials.

1. Place your shoes in a temperate area with low humidity.
2. Stuff your pairs with paper towels.
3. For faster drying, place a fan nearby.
4. Once dry, sprinkle baking soda in your shoes to eliminate strong odors.

Important reminders for washing your running shoes

Be sure to use a proper solution while cleaning your running shoes and avoid harsh chemicals that can fade the material.

• Never put running shoes in the washer or dryer. Putting your shoes in the washer and dryer is not only loud, but can ruin its shape and dull the colors.
• Always use the correct cleaning solutions. Using the proper cleaning solutions can help keep the colors of your shoes vibrant and fresh without breaking down the materials of the shoe.