To clean your New Balance trainers effectively, use a soft-bristled brush, mild detergent, and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive soaking.
Here’s a detailed guide:
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for New Balance Trainers
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Prepare Your Materials:
- Soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great)
- Mild detergent (dish soap or laundry detergent without dye)
- Lukewarm water
- Clean cloths or towels
- Optional: Shoe cleaner specifically designed for athletic shoes
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Remove Loose Dirt:
- Tap the soles of your trainers together to dislodge loose dirt.
- Use a soft brush to remove any remaining surface dirt from the upper, midsole, and outsole.
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Mix Your Cleaning Solution:
- In a small bowl, mix a small amount of mild detergent with lukewarm water.
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Clean the Trainers:
- Dip the soft-bristled brush into the cleaning solution.
- Gently scrub the upper, midsole, and outsole of the trainers. Avoid excessive scrubbing that could damage the materials.
- Pay close attention to areas with visible dirt or stains.
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Rinse Thoroughly:
- Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue from the trainers.
- Avoid fully submerging the shoes in water.
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Clean the Laces:
- Remove the laces from the trainers.
- Hand wash the laces in the same cleaning solution or place them in a mesh laundry bag and machine wash them on a delicate cycle.
- Rinse the laces thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
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Dry the Trainers:
- Stuff the trainers with clean paper towels or newspaper to help them maintain their shape and absorb moisture.
- Allow the trainers to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Direct sunlight and heat can cause the materials to shrink or become damaged.
- Replace the paper towels as needed until the trainers are completely dry.
- Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage the adhesives and materials.
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Reassemble:
- Once the trainers and laces are completely dry, re-lace the trainers.
Important Considerations:
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Material Specifics: Different New Balance trainers are made from various materials (leather, suede, mesh, synthetic). Always check the care instructions on the shoe label or New Balance's website for material-specific cleaning advice.
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Suede and Nubuck: For suede or nubuck trainers, use a suede brush and a suede cleaner specifically designed for these materials. Avoid getting these materials excessively wet.
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Stubborn Stains: For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or use a specialized stain remover designed for athletic shoes. Test any stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the material.
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Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning will help prevent dirt and grime from building up and making your trainers more difficult to clean. Aim to clean your trainers every few weeks, depending on how often you wear them.
By following these steps, you can keep your New Balance trainers clean and looking their best.
