Six Easy Steps To Cleaning Your Running Shoes

So, you’ve looked up the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis and found something to your liking. After a couple runs on the trail, you now notice that your shoes are in need of some cleaning. Not only does cleaning your shoes remove unwanted odor, it helps your shoes perform better (by, for example, removing dirty from the tread) and makes the shoes look better. Also, having clean shoes is a positive statement about your own personality. “But, wait! How should I clean my running shoes?” you ask yourself. Don’t worry, because below is the definitive guide to keeping your running shoes spic-n-span.

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Step 1: Remove the Insole

Most of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis will have a removable insole. This will allow you to clean not only the insole, but the inside of the shoe much more easily. Furthermore, it provides a way to more effectively get rid of bad odor.

Step 2: Remove the Shoelaces

Believe it or not, dirt can creep up in and especially around the eyelets. Not only does removing the laces make it easier to clean them, it makes it easier to get at dirt that might otherwise be blocked by dangling shoelaces.

Step 3: Mix Dish Soap with Warm Water and Go Over Everything With a Toothbrush

Of course, for this step, you should use an old toothbrush. Even though you may be cleaning a pair of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis, they still are shoes. You wouldn’t want to brush your teeth with a toothbrush you used to clean shoes, would you? You will want to be careful to make sure that you use liquid soap used for doing dishes (or cleanser designed specifically for running shoes). Using soaps such as saddle soap can cause damage to any leather components. Using an old toothbrush is a good way to get dirt and grime off as well as reach some difficult spots.

Step 4: Clean the Insoles and Shoelaces

Don’t forget about what you took out! You can use a washcloth and the same soapy water used to clean your shoes for the laces and insoles. Of course, you may want to opt for changing the water after using it to clean your shoes. When finished, hang up the shoelaces to dry and find some paper to set your insoles on so they can also air-dry. In the case of odor, use some foot powder or baking soda. If that doesn’t work, just chuck the insoles in the garbage and buy a new pair.

Step 5A: Put the Shoes in the Washing Machine

Just like with anything else you wear, shoes can be cleaned (usually) by tossing them in the washing machine. However, note that you should not just put your shoes in as is. In order to prevent your shoes from becoming damaged during the violent spinning that goes on during a wash cycle, put them in pillowcases or wrap them in sheets. You can cushion the inside of the washing machine with blankets or towels to lessen the impact the shoes have to absorb while being washed.

Step 5B: Use a Washcloth to Clean the Shoes

Not all of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis are tumble-proof. Some shoes, such as Nike, specifically warn against putting the shoes through the wash cycle. When this is the case, it is best to heed the manufacturer’s warning and simply use a washcloth to wipe dirt off the shoe.

Step 6: Dry Your Shoes

The best way to dry your running shoes is to let them air dry. This can take a rather long time, though – anywhere from half a day to a full day or more. The process can be sped up by stuffing the shoes with paper or towels. You will want to avoid using newspapers, though, since it is possible for the ink to bleed into the inside of your shoes. Some sources suggest tossing your shoes into the dryer, but since heat can alter a shoe’s shape, doing so is not highly recommended.

Six easy steps to cleaning your shoes. Now, you not only have the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, you know the best way to clean them as well. Keeping your shoes clean is important to maintaining them in good condition and allowing them to perform at their maximum capability.