How to wash and dry the shoes correctly - a complete footwear care guide 2025

Why proper care of shoes matters

Have you ever wondered why your shoes don't serve as long as they should? Often the cause is not intensive use or low quality, but incorrect care. Regular cleaning, proper washing and drying are the key to the longevity of footwear.

Each type of shoes requires a different approach - what works with sneakers can destroy elegant leather shoes. In this article you will learn proven methods of care for various types of footwear that will allow you to enjoy your favorite pairs for years.

Regardless of whether you wear sneakers, boots or sandals - you will find practical tips here that will help you keep your shoes in perfect condition.

Which type of shoes can be washed and which one

Material shoes - sneakers, sneakers, sneakers

Most shoes made of textile materials can be washed in a washing machine, but this requires proper preparation:
• Remove the laces and inserts
• Clean the sole of larger dirt
• Place the shoes in a washing bag or pillowcase
• Set the temperature to max. 30 ° C, delicate program without spinning
• Use a small amount of washing liquid, avoid a conditioner

Leather shoes - pumps, shoes, boots

Natural leather requires special caution:
• Never immerse completely in water
• Clean a damp cloth with a delicate soap
• Use specialized pastes and skin balms
• Apply a nourishing cream after cleaning

Suede and nubuck shoes

These materials are the most demanding:
• clean only dry brush
• Use eraser for spots
• Do not soak - moisture destroys the structure of the material
• regularly use the suede impregnation

Washing shoes in the washing machine step by step

Preparation for washing

1. Remove the laces and inserts - plug them separately
2. Clean shoes from mud, pebbles and dust
3. Check if the manufacturer allows machine washing
4. Prepare a bag for laundry or soft towels

Washing machine settings

• temperature: maximum 30 ° C (ideal 20 ° C)
• Program: delicate or special for footwear
• Vial: disabled or minimal speed
• detergent: liquid, without bleach and softener
• add -ons: You can add a few towels for better cushioning

Errors that should be avoided

• Washing at too high temperature
• using too much detergent
• throwing shoes directly into the drum
• washing with other clothes
• Using bleaches or acute chemicals

Drying shoes - the best methods and frequent mistakes

Basic drying rules

Correct drying is as important as washing itself. Incorrectly dried shoes can deform, crawl or begin to smell unpleasant.

What to avoid when drying

• direct sun - may cause fading and cracks
• radiators and radiators - high temperature deforms shoes
• clothes dryers - can damage the material and glue
• drying in closed spaces without ventilation

Proven drying methods

1. Natural drying - the best method for all types of shoes
2. Stuffing with a newspaper - helps to keep shape and absorb moisture
3. Drying in a ventilated place - ensures adequate air circulation
4. Use of moisture absorbing inserts - accelerates the process

How long to dry your shoes

• Sneakers and sneakers: 24-48 hours
• Leather shoes: 2-3 days
• Winter shoes: up to 5 days
• Sandals and summer shoes: 12-24 hours

Cleaning individual elements of the shoe

Cleaning different parts of the shoe

Sole:
• brush with hard bristles + warm soapy water
• for white soles: toothpaste or baking soda
• persistent stains: delicate bleach diluted with water

Material upper:
• Soft brush + delicate detergent
• Stains: baking soda paste and water
• Drying: natural, away from heat sources

Leather upper:
• microfiber cloth + specialized skin liquid
• deeper cleaning: gentle glycerin soap
• Nutrition: Cream or skin balm every 2-3 weeks

Removing odors

• Baking soda: Pour overnight in the morning.
• vinegar: wipe the interior with diluted vinegar
• antibacterial spray: regularly spray the interior
• antibacterial inserts: replace regularly

Practical care tips on a daily basis

Daily care habits

• Wipe the shoes after each use
• Use wooden rules to keep the shape
• Let the shoes dry between wearing
• Regularly replace the inserts
• Impregnate footwear before the season

Seasonal care

Before the season:
• thorough cleaning after storage period
• Checking the condition of the upper and soles
• impregnation with appropriate preparations
• replacement of used inserts and laces

After the season:
• thorough cleaning from storage
• complete drying
• protection against moles (leather shoes)
• storage in breathable bags or boxes

When to go to the shoemaker

• damage to the soles or uppers
• need for professional cleaning (e.g. white shoes)
• Flek replacement or lock repair
• thorough renovation of older footwear