Sneaker cleaning myths: What you’ve heard vs. what’s true
Sneakers are one of the most popular types of shoes. Many people wear them every day for work, school, or sports. Because we use sneakers a lot, they get dirty and need cleaning. But when it comes to cleaning sneakers, there are many myths or wrong ideas that people believe. These myths can sometimes make us clean our shoes the wrong way or even damage them.
Let’s cut through the noise. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common sneaker cleaning myths—and the truth that’ll help you keep your sneakers looking fresh without ruining them.
Myth 1: You can wash all sneakers in the washing machine
Many people think that all sneakers can be cleaned easily by putting them in the washing machine. This seems quick and simple. But it is not always true.
Truth: Not all sneakers are safe for the washing machine. Some sneakers have materials like leather, suede, or glued parts that can get damaged by water and the washing machine's movement. Washing machines can cause the shoes to lose shape, colors to fade, or glue to come off.
What to do instead: Check the care label on your sneakers first. For sneakers that can’t be machine washed, use shoe cleaning brushes with sneaker cleaning solution and water to clean them by hand. For better cleaning, you should invest in a shoe cleaning kit for sneakers.
Even if your sneakers are labeled as machine-washable, avoid tossing them directly into the washing machine. Instead, remove the laces and insoles first. Place the shoes in a proper shoe laundry bag to protect them during the wash. Use a gentle cycle with normal water, and always avoid using hot water or harsh detergents, as these can damage the shoe material or weaken the glue. For best results, use a dedicated shoe laundry kit designed to keep your sneakers safe and supported during the wash.
Get the SHOEGR Shoe Laundry Kit to safely machine-wash your shoes.
Myth 2: Using bleach makes sneakers whiter and cleaner
Bleach is a strong chemical. Some people believe it will make their white sneakers very bright and clean.
Truth: Bleach can harm your sneakers, especially if they are made of fabric or soft materials. It can cause yellow stains or weaken the shoe fabric. It is not safe to use bleach on most sneakers.
What to do instead: Use a gentle cleaner made for shoes or a mix of baking soda and water for whitening. These options clean well without damaging your sneakers. And even these, always test on a small hidden patch first.
Myth 3: Dry your sneakers quickly using a dryer or heater
After cleaning sneakers, many people want to dry them fast. Some use a dryer or put the shoes near a heater.
Truth: High heat can damage sneakers. It can cause the glue to melt, the materials to shrink, or the shape to change. Using a dryer or direct heat is not a good idea.
What to do instead: Air-dry your sneakers at room temperature. Take out the insoles and laces and stuff the shoes with a shoe tree or paper (if a shoe tree is not available) to help them keep their shape and dry faster.
Myth 4: You should clean sneakers every day
Some people think that cleaning sneakers every day keeps them always fresh.
Truth: Cleaning your sneakers too often, especially with harsh methods, can wear them out faster. Over-cleaning may damage the materials the same way as never cleaning them. It can also cause the colors to fade.
What to do instead: Clean your sneakers when they are dirty or smell bad. Regular light cleaning with sneaker wipes or dry brushing dirt helps maintain them without damage.
Myth 5: Shoe cleaner is a Scam—just use dish soap
Some people think dish soap is all you need to clean your sneakers and that specialty cleaners are just overpriced hype.
Truth: Dish soap or detergent can work in a pinch, but it’s not the best solution—especially for premium materials. Many soaps are too harsh, drying out leather or causing discoloration.
What to do instead: Use a sneaker cleaner that’s pH-balanced and formulated for different materials. It’ll clean effectively without risking long-term damage.
Myth 6: Sneakers don’t need to be deodorized if they look clean
Some people think that if their sneakers look clean, they don’t need to worry about odor.
Truth: Even clean-looking sneakers can have bad smells from sweat and bacteria. Odor can build up inside the shoes and cause discomfort or infections.
What to do instead: Use a shoe freshener or odor absorber regularly. Bamboo charcoal fresheners like SHOEGR charcoal sachets are natural and eco-friendly options. They help absorb moisture and odors without chemicals.
Myth 7: Suede or nubuck can be cleaned the same way as leather or canvas
Many people assume that all sneaker materials can be cleaned using the same methods and products.
Truth: Suede and nubuck are extremely sensitive to moisture and aggressive brushing. They can even lose their nap over time.
Better option: Learn how to take care of your suede shoes. How to keep them clean and how to restore their nap. Invest in a good quality Suede and Nubuck cleaning Kit, along with a regular shoe cleaning kit. Also, stock up on Coat: Water & Stain Repellent to avoid getting suede or nubuck stained or damaged by water.
Conclusion
If you want easy and safe cleaning, consider SHOEGR products. They offer wipes, shoe shapers, and charcoal fresheners that make sneaker care simple and effective.
The internet is full of quick fixes and cleaning hacks, but when it comes to sneakers, care beats shortcuts. Knowing the truth behind common myths helps you clean smarter—not harder—and protects the value and longevity of your favorite pairs.
Treat your sneakers right, and they’ll return the favor—step after step.
