How to safely clean Knit Air Max sneakers | Guide by SHOEGR

Knit sneakers like the Nike Air Max Flyknits are loved for their lightweight feel, breathable design, and modern aesthetic. But here’s the downside: that same knit fabric can trap dirt, dust, and stains much faster than traditional leather or synthetic sneakers. So, how do you keep your Air Max knit sneakers looking fresh without ruining the delicate material?

At SHOEGR, we know the ins and outs of sneaker care—and in this guide, we’ll walk you through the safest and most effective way to clean your knit Air Max sneakers without damaging the fabric, color, or structure.

Why do knit sneakers need special care?

Knit uppers (like Nike’s Flyknit) are made of woven yarns that are flexible and breathable but also absorbent and delicate. If you scrub too hard, use too much water, or use the wrong cleaner, you risk:

• Stretching the fabric.

• Causing discoloration.

• Leaving watermarks or soap residue.

• Weakening the knit structure over time.

Normal cleaning methods may ruin the knit material. That’s why you need a sneaker cleaning kit and the right technique.

Things you will need

Before you begin, gather these items:

1. Sneaker cleaning solution.

2. A soft bristle brush for the delicate uppers

3. Medium bristle brush for the midsoles

4. Hard bristle brush for the outsoles

5. A microfiber towel

6. A bowl of water

7. A shoe tree or newspaper paper to keep the shape (optional)

You can find all of this in a SHOEGR Ultimate Shoe Cleaning Kit or you can opt for the Ultimate Shoe Cleaning Kit + Shapeit Shoe Trees Super Saver Combo. The Ultimate Kit is designed to clean your sneakers without damaging them. It's safe, easy to use, and made for effectively cleaning all types of sneakers. SHOEGR Shapeit Shoe Trees are designed to maintain your shoe’s natural shape during the cleaning and drying process.

Step-by-step: Cleaning your Knit Air Max Sneakers safely

Step 1: Prepare the cleaning solution

Mix 2-3 squirts of sneaker cleaning solution in a bowl of 200-250 ml water. Don’t use harsh soaps. SHOEGR Clean sneaker cleaner is made from natural ingredients and is safe for delicate materials like knit. Now let’s proceed with the next steps.

Step 2: Remove the laces and insoles

Take out the laces and insoles from your sneakers. This helps you clean the shoe better, and these can trap dirt, so it’s better to clean them separately.

• Wash laces by hand using the prepared cleaning solution and water after you have completed cleaning the shoes.

• If insoles are smelly, clean them with a soft brush and the same solution and let them air out.

Step 3: Dry brush to remove loose dirt

Use a soft-bristle brush to gently remove loose dust, dirt, or dried mud. Thoroughly dry brushing before applying any cleaner helps prevent rubbing dirt deeper into the knit. Avoid using too much pressure—let the bristles do the work.

Step 4: Clean the uppers first

Begin by gently scrubbing the knit upper in small sections using a soft-bristle brush dipped in your prepared cleaning solution. Use circular motions and avoid applying too much pressure—let the brush and cleaner do the work.

Always hold the brush lightly. Pressing too hard can stretch the knit or damage its texture. Avoid soaking the fabric with too much liquid. Knit material is absorbent and can hold water deep within, which may lead to longer drying times or even watermarks.

If you're dealing with stubborn stains, apply a bit more cleaner to the spot and repeat the process gently. Be patient—it's better to clean in layers than to overdo it in one go.

If you are new to shoe cleaning, then you can also use the foam shoe cleaner and a soft-bristle brush to avoid overuse of cleaning solution.

Step 5: Clean the midsoles and outsoles

• Use a medium brush for midsoles and a hard brush for outsoles—these areas are mostly made of sturdy rubber or EVA foam and can handle more pressure.

• Dip the brush in the cleaning solution and clean by scrubbing in circular or back-and-forth motions to remove dirt, stains, and buildup.

• Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

Step 6: Let them air dry naturally

Once cleaned, stuff your sneakers with crumpled paper or a shoe tree to help them retain shape. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid using hairdryers or heaters—high heat can warp the material and damage adhesives.

Final thoughts

Knit Air Max sneakers are stylish, light, and trendy. But they also need more care than regular shoes. With the right method and the best shoe care products, you can keep them looking fresh and clean for a long time.

SHOEGR’s products are made with sneaker lovers in mind. Whether you wear them daily or on special days, your shoes deserve the best care.