Cleaning textile and mesh sneakers: a safe method for sports and running shoes

Textile and mesh sneakers are lightweight, breathable, and ideal for sports and running. At the same time, they easily absorb dirt, mud, and sweat. Incorrect cleaning can cause them to deform, discolor, or lose their cushioning and structure. In this guide, you will learn how to safely clean textile and mesh sneakers without damaging them in a washing machine.

Why textile and mesh are different from leather

Unlike leather, textile and mesh are often made of woven or knitted fibers. These have different properties:

• They absorb water and dirt more quickly.
• They can stretch or deform with too much heat or friction.
• The glue and midsole can be sensitive to high temperatures.

Therefore, gentle, controlled cleaning is important.

What do you need to clean textile/mesh sneakers?

• A mild sneaker cleaner or textile cleaner
• A soft brush (possibly a second, slightly stiffer brush for the soles)
• Clean microfiber cloths
• A bowl or basin with lukewarm water
• Optionally, a deodorizer or sneaker refresher for odor

Do not use chlorine, bleach, or aggressive degreasers. These can damage the fibers and cause colors to fade.

Step-by-step cleaning of textile and mesh sneakers

1. Preparation

• Remove laces and insoles (if removable) and set them aside.
• Tap or brush off loose sand and mud, ideally outdoors or over a trash can.

2. Make cleaning solution

Mix a small amount of sneaker cleaner with lukewarm water according to the instructions on the package.

3. Clean the upper

1. Dip the soft brush into the solution and tap off excess water.
2. Clean the textile in gentle, circular motions. Do not over-wet: the material should become damp, not soaked.
3. Pay extra attention to areas with a lot of sweat and dirt, such as the toe box and sides.
4. Dab with a clean cloth in between to absorb dirt and foam.

4. Clean soles and edges

1. Use a slightly stiffer brush for the midsole and outsole.
2. Scrub away mud and street dirt, but be careful along the edge where the sole is glued to the upper.

Dealing with mud, sweat, and odor

• Mud: let mud dry completely first, then brush it off before wet cleaning.
• Sweat: regularly clean the inside of the shoe and allow insoles to dry thoroughly.
• Odor: use a sneaker refresher or special deodorizer and always allow shoes to air out completely between workouts.

To machine wash or not?

Many people throw textile and mesh sneakers in the washing machine. This seems easy, but it has disadvantages:

• The combination of heat, water, and spinning can loosen glue bonds.
• The shoe's shape and the sole's cushioning can be affected.
• Colors can fade or bleed unevenly.

A short, lukewarm sports wash on a low cycle seems harmless, but repeated washing accelerates wear. Manual cleaning with a brush and mild cleaner is much safer.

Drying and protecting

• Allow the sneakers to dry at room temperature, out of direct sunlight.
• Lightly stuff them with paper towels to maintain their shape and absorb moisture.
• Never place them on a heat source or in the dryer.
• Once the shoes are dry, you can spray them with a protective spray suitable for textile and mesh. This helps repel dirt and moisture.

Conclusion: fresh sneakers without damage

Cleaning textile and mesh sneakers doesn't have to be complicated, as long as you do it gently and in a controlled manner. With the right products, a soft brush, and sufficient drying time, your sports and running shoes will stay fresh, comfortable, and beautiful for longer – without the risk of washing machine damage.