In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, gym, running and padel shoes pick up fine sand and a lot of sweat, so they need cleaning often. Doing it by hand takes about 15 minutes.
Why can a washing machine damage sneakers?
A washing machine soaks sneakers and tumbles them against the drum, which can weaken the glue that holds the sole on, bend the shape, and make colors run. ASICS says soaking running shoes can damage the fabric and the adhesives. Dryer heat adds more stress, which is why Nike and ASICS both recommend air-drying. Nike also notes that bulky items like sneakers can damage the washing machine itself.
What do Nike, Adidas, ASICS and On recommend?
Most big sneaker brands recommend cleaning by hand and drying at room temperature, but the details differ by brand and model, so check the care page for your exact pair.
Nike doesn't recommend the washing machine and says dryer heat can damage shoes. Brush off dirt with a soft brush, clean with mild soap and water, and let the shoes air-dry.
Adidas recommends a little mild detergent in warm water and drying at room temperature, away from dryers and heaters, because heat can change the shape of the rubber. A few running models, such as the 4DFWD, can go in the machine in a mesh bag on a cold, delicate cycle.
ASICS says never to put running shoes in the washer or dryer. Scrub the outsoles with a soft brush and warm soapy water, stuff the shoes with paper towels, and dry them away from heat and direct sun.
On, Hoka, New Balance and other running brands vary by model, especially for shoes with thick foam or plated midsoles. If the care label or the brand's site doesn't say the model is machine-washable, clean it by hand.
How do you clean sneakers by hand?
Hand-cleaning canvas, mesh or synthetic sneakers needs a soft brush, mild soap and warm water.
Remove the laces and insoles.
Brush loose dirt off the outsole, midsole and uppers with a dry, soft-bristled brush, as Nike recommends. Brushing first stops sand turning into mud.
Mix a little mild soap into warm water and scrub gently, a small area at a time. Nike advises against bleach and harsh cleaning products, which can damage the material.
Wash the laces in soapy water and rinse them.
Wipe the insoles and leave them out to dry separately.
Stuff the shoes with paper to hold their shape and air-dry them away from heat and direct sun.
Suede and leather need different care. Nike says suede absorbs moisture and stains quickly, so use a suede brush rather than water.
How do you stop sneakers from smelling?
Sneakers smell when sweat stays trapped inside them and they never dry out completely. Alternate between two pairs so each pair gets a full day to dry between wears. Take the insoles out after a workout so they dry faster, and once the shoes are dry, ASICS suggests sprinkling a little baking soda inside to absorb odors.
When is it worth getting sneakers professionally cleaned?
A professional clean is worth it when sneakers are heavily soiled or you don't have time. Washmen, the UAE laundry and dry cleaning app, offers Sneaker Wash for everyday canvas, mesh and synthetic sneakers, such as Nike, Adidas and ASICS running shoes, gym and padel shoes, Converse and Vans. It costs AED 65 per pair and uses a 3-stage process: a sole clean, a 360° wash of the uppers, insides, insoles and laces, and a controlled dry. Pairs come back in 2 days. Leather, suede and designer pairs go to ShoeCare, our hand-cleaning service. You can book Sneaker Wash in the Washmen app.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put sneakers in the dryer?
No. Nike, Adidas and ASICS all advise against drying shoes with heat, which can warp the sole and weaken the glue. Stuff them with paper and let them air-dry instead.
How do you fix yellowed white soles?
Yellowing on white rubber soles usually doesn't scrub off with soap. Washmen's ShoeCare offers sole icing, a treatment that reverses yellowing on soles.
Can you wash running shoes in cold water in the machine?
Only if the brand says that model is machine-washable. Cold water lowers the risk but doesn't remove it, because soaking and tumbling still stress the glue and the shape, so hand-cleaning is the safer option for running shoes.
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