Shoes are often the first thing people notice about you, and clean shoes can instantly elevate your overall appearance. However, many people unknowingly damage their footwear by making common cleaning mistakes. Whether it’s leather, suede, sneakers, or canvas shoes, each material requires a different approach. Using the wrong method can shorten the lifespan of your shoes, fade their color, or even ruin their shape.
To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are the top 10 mistakes people make while cleaning their shoes and how you can do it the right way.
1. Using Too Much Water
Soaking your shoes in water may seem like the easiest way to clean them, but it often causes more harm than good. Materials like leather and suede get damaged when exposed to excess water, leading to cracks or stains.
Correct Method: Use a damp cloth or a mild cleaning solution instead of submerging shoes in water.
2. Scrubbing Too Hard
Aggressive scrubbing can damage delicate fabrics and ruin the shoe’s finish. For example, suede can lose its texture if scrubbed harshly.
Correct Method: Use gentle, circular motions with a soft brush or cloth to clean shoes.
3. Using Harsh Chemicals or Detergents
Bleach or strong detergents can cause discoloration and weaken the shoe material.
Correct Method: Stick to mild soap, baking soda, or shoe-specific cleaning products.
4. Ignoring the Soles
Many people clean only the top part of their shoes and forget about the soles, which carry the most dirt and bacteria.
Correct Method: Use a stiff brush and soapy water to scrub the soles clean.
5. Drying Shoes in Direct Sunlight or Heat
Placing shoes under the sun or near heaters may dry them quickly, but it also weakens glue and causes leather to crack.
Correct Method: Always air dry shoes in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
6. Not Removing Laces and Insoles
Cleaning shoes without removing the laces and insoles results in an incomplete job and leaves dirt hidden inside.
Correct Method: Remove laces and wash them separately. Take out insoles and clean them with mild soap.
7. Washing Sneakers in a Washing Machine
While tempting, tossing sneakers in a washing machine can damage cushioning and deform their shape.
Correct Method: Hand wash sneakers with a soft brush and mild detergent.
8. Using the Wrong Brush or Cloth
A rough brush on delicate materials like suede or patent leather can cause scratches or texture loss.
Correct Method: Use material-specific brushes—soft for suede and microfiber cloths for leather or patent shoes.
9. Forgetting to Condition Leather Shoes
Leather loses its shine and flexibility over time if not conditioned properly after cleaning.
Correct Method: Apply a leather conditioner or polish to keep them supple and shiny.
10. Not Storing Shoes Properly After Cleaning
Even after cleaning, many people just leave their shoes lying around, causing them to lose shape or collect dust again.
Correct Method: Use shoe trees, store them in dust bags, or keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain shape and freshness.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your shoes isn’t just about removing dirt—it’s about protecting your investment and extending their life. By avoiding these 10 common mistakes and following the correct methods, you can ensure your leather, suede, sneakers, and canvas shoes remain in top condition.
Remember, well-maintained shoes not only look great but also speak volumes about your personality and attention to detail.