For sneakerheads out there, proper care of your collection is crucial. Proper care is crucial if you want your sneakers to last a long time, stay in good form, and appear fresh for years to come. It’s something to keep in mind if you consider your sneakers as investments.
Meanwhile, one’s wardrobe isn’t complete without a quality pair of sneakers. Nevertheless, you want your sneaker collection to stay in good shape and functional for years.
Here are some sneaker maintenance tips and tricks:
1. Provide Your Shoes With The Right Protection
Taking care of your sneakers from the moment you remove them from the box is a simple first step in keeping them in good shape. Look for a good-quality repellent spray designed for the sneaker’s material. This can help prevent dirt and water from causing any damage to its exterior.
Make it a point to apply the repellent immediately after unboxing your shoes. Considering this additional step can help keep your sneakers clean and dry. This is also helpful especially if you wear one during bad weather conditions where there’s a chance for your shoes to get wet.
Don’t forget to check for water resistance every one to two months routinely. Apply a few drops of water to the exterior of your sneaker and reapply the repellent as necessary.
2. Keep The Laces Clean
Although most tend to focus on the exterior of sneakers, the laces also require special care. Dirty laces can make your shoes appear old and unappealing. When the laces of your favourite sneakers start turning yellowish or accumulating traces of dirt or debris, it’s time to clean them.
Soak the laces in a sink or basin of water. Pour laundry detergent or a specialized cleaner into the mix and ensure that the laces are fully saturated. Avoid using bleach-based products on white laces as much as possible since it can damage the fibres over time.
Allow soaking before removing the laces from the solution. Use a toothbrush to remove any remaining stains or spots. Meanwhile, make sure to rinse the laces and hang them to dry thoroughly.
Another option is to invest in several pairs of laces you can interchange, such as Collonil laces and similar options from reputable brands, to give your sneakers a fresh look.
3. Carry Out Routine Cleaning By Hand
If your sneakers get dirty, you must learn the best way to clean them. Start by preparing a moist cloth, shoe brush, and a cleaning product specially made for sneakers. Use a cloth or towel to thoroughly wipe away any debris or dirt on the exterior.
To remove stubborn stains, you can always switch to a toothbrush to scrub them away. Ensure the brush has bristles that are appropriate for the material of your sneakers to avoid causing any damage.
If you believe using a washing machine is the most convenient way to clean your sneakers, you should reconsider. Take time to read the care instructions. Avoid using a washing machine or dryer to clean your sneakers as much as possible. This can damage the material and cause rapid deterioration.
4. Remove Odour From The Insoles
If you have a favourite pair of sneakers, you’re likely to wear them most of the time. However, continuous use over several days will prevent the interior from drying completely. Significantly, you should allow your sneakers to dry before using them. Even waterproof shoes can still generate an unpleasant stench if not appropriately treated.
Ideally, the best way to deal with the insole odour is to wear socks with a moisture-wicking material. On the other hand, you could also use a natural deodorizing spray with ingredients such as tea tree or peppermint. Most of these products can help freshen up insoles that smell bad without leaving behind damaging chemical residues.
5. Observe Proper Storage
Most tend to keep their sneakers in their respective boxes, but it pays to go an extra mile to ensure you’re storing your sneakers properly. Aside from the physical protection the shoe boxes provide, you should consider investing in additional dryer sheets to keep your shoes fresh.
You can also look for specialized products to prevent undesirable shoe odours. An alternative yet equally effective product you can use to eliminate the stench is baking soda, which you’re likely to find in your kitchen.
As an extra measure, it’s best to pack your sneakers with newspapers after use. Newspapers can absorb moisture, especially if your feet sweat profusely. Stuffing your shoes with newspaper allows them to dry faster, preventing odour build-up. This also helps the toe section of the shoe from folding in, which can diminish the shoe’s aesthetic value.
Final Thoughts
Sneakers nowadays come in various materials and styles. If you love them for their versatility, providing extra care is crucial if you want them to last a long time.
Considering these valuable pointers can serve as your guide in keeping your shoes looking clean and fresh. Ultimately, how you care for your sneakers is essential in ensuring they look good and stay functional for years to come.
