Your ultimate guide to cleaning Skechers Go Walk 7 shoes at home

We all love our shoes and it’s way more when we are talking about Skechers Go Walk 7 shoes. They are soft, light, and super comfortable. Whether you use them for walking, traveling, or even everyday work, these shoes are a perfect match for long hours. But like all shoes, they get dirty over time. Mud, sweat, dust, and water can make them look old and feel smelly. 

Don't worry! The good part is you can totally freshen them up at home with a little time, a few tools, and a little care. Let’s get started with these tips!

Step 1: Know what you’re dealing with

Go Walk 7 shoes are typically crafted with lightweight mesh or knit fabric uppers, soft cushioned interiors, and durable rubber soles—all designed to provide maximum comfort, breathability, and flexibility for everyday use. However, each of these materials requires special care when cleaning:

• Mesh and knit uppers are breathable but porous, which means they can easily trap dust, sweat, and grime.
• Cushioned interiors, especially those with memory foam, should never be soaked or scrubbed harshly.
• Rubber soles are more durable and can handle firmer scrubbing.

By matching the right cleaning method to each material, you can keep your shoes looking and feeling like new without risking any damage.

Step 2: Gather your cleaning tools

Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Using the proper cleaning items ensures that you won’t damage the delicate material of your shoes while still getting rid of all the dirt and grime.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shoe cleaning brushes –

This is essential for gently scrubbing away dirt, especially from the mesh or knit uppers. A brush with soft bristles won’t fray the fabric but is still effective enough to lift out dust, mud, and surface stains. On the other hand, medium-and hard-bristles brushes will help to clean the midsoles and outsoles.

• A good-quality sneaker cleaner –

Choose a cleaner that's made specifically for shoes, like the SHOEGR Sneaker Cleaner. It's specially formulated to be mild yet effective, making it safe for delicate materials like mesh, knit, or foam. It cleans deeply without leaving behind any residue.

• A clean microfiber towel–

You’ll need this to wipe away excess cleaner and dirt as you go. Microfiber cloths are soft and absorbent, making them ideal for blotting without damaging the material.

• A bowl of water –

This will be used to mix your cleaner (if it’s concentrated) and to rinse your brush during the process.

Having these basics ready will make the cleaning process smoother, more effective, and less messy. You can also get SHOEGR shoe cleaning kit, which includes all these essentials in one kit.

Step 3: Remove the laces & dry brush first

Start by removing the laces. This step not only allows you to clean the laces separately, but it also gives you full access to the tongue and eyelets, where dirt often builds up unnoticed.

Before you add any water or cleaner, use a dry, soft brush to remove loose dirt, dust, or mud from the upper part of the shoes. This makes the cleaning process easier later.

• Don’t use too much pressure.
  

• Clean gently in a circular motion.

Step 4:Deep clean using sneaker cleaner 

Start with the uppers:

Mix a small amount of sneaker cleaner with water (or use it directly if it's foam-based). Dip your brush into the solution and start scrubbing the upper fabric parts in circular motions. And then wipe the uppers with a microfiber towel.

Scrub the midsoles:

Take the medium-bristles brush and start scrubbing the midsoles. Repeat the process of wiping the excess foam or leftover residue with a microfiber towel.

Clean the outsole: 

Now, take the hard brush. Dip it into the solution and scrub the bottom of the shoe. This part usually has the most dirt and stains. After proper cleaning, wipe off the leftover residue with a microfiber towel.

Step 5: Clean the insoles and laces (if removable)

Pop out the insoles and clean them separately with the same cleaner. This step is important because insoles trap sweat and odor over time. Scrub gently and then pat them dry with a microfiber towel.

Don’t forget to clean the laces as well. Soak them in a small bowl of the cleaning solution. Gently scrub them using your hands or a soft brush to remove stains. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then pat dry with a microfiber towel.

Step 6: Let them air dry (patiently)

Stuff the shoes with a shoe shaper or newspaper to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Place them in a well-ventilated, shaded area to dry. It might take time, but it’s worth the wait.

Step 7: Clean and reinsert the laces and insoles

Once your shoes are dry, put the clean laces and insoles back. You’ll notice your shoes look fresher and feel more comfortable.

Can you put Skechers Go Walk 7 in a washing machine?

While some walking shoes may be labeled as machine washable, it's not a one-size-fits-all rule—especially when it comes to Go Walk 7 shoes. Tossing them in the washing machine can do more harm than good. The spinning and water pressure can weaken the glue that holds the sole, damage the memory foam cushioning, or even cause the fabric to lose its shape and support.

Instead, it’s much safer and more effective to clean them by hand using a sneaker cleaner or a proper shoe cleaning kit. This way, you can target the dirty areas without soaking the entire shoe, helping it last longer and look better.

For best results, always check the care tag inside the shoe or visit the official website for model-specific cleaning instructions before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Skechers Go Walk 7 shoes at home is easy and worth the effort. With just a few tools and 20–30 minutes, you can make them look almost new. Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking fresh but also helps them last longer.

So, take a little time every few weeks and give your shoes the care they deserve. Your feet—and your sneakers—will thank you!