Sneaker Cleaning Tips for Summer

May 19, 2025

Sneaker cleaning tips are essential during the summer months, when heat, sweat, dirt, and outdoor activity can take a toll on your favorite shoes. Whether you're heading to a barbecue, a festival, or a day at the park, summer is the season to keep your sneakers looking and smelling their best.

This guide offers smart, effective sneaker cleaning tips for summer, no matter what kind of shoes you wear. From white leather kicks to mesh running shoes, we’ll cover how to clean, protect, and store your sneakers so they last longer and stay fresher.

At SneakerCycle, we know how important it is to keep your footwear in good shape. We inspect and clean every pair we sell, and we’re here to help you do the same at home.

Why Summer Demands Better Sneaker Cleaning Habits

Summer brings sweat, heat, dust, and grass stains. You’re outside more, walking further, and wearing your favorite sneakers on repeat. That extra wear means extra care is needed to:

Prevent odors
Remove surface dirt and stains
Protect materials from sun damage
Extend the lifespan of your sneakers

Whether you're wearing white leather Air Force 1s, mesh running shoes, or canvas high tops, these sneaker cleaning tips will help you handle summer's toughest sneaker challenges.

Daily Sneaker Cleaning Tips to Prevent Buildup

The best cleaning strategy is preventative. Here are daily or weekly habits that help keep sneakers in shape without a full scrub-down every time.

1. Wipe Off Surface Dirt After Each Wear

Use a damp microfiber cloth or soft brush to remove dirt and dust. This prevents grime from settling into the material.

2. Use a Soft Shoe Brush

A gentle dry brushing before and after wear helps dislodge loose particles, especially around soles and seams.

3. Air Out Your Shoes

Let sneakers dry out in a cool, shaded space after each wear. This stops bacteria buildup and helps prevent odors.

How to Clean White Sneakers in the Summer

White sneakers are a staple during warm months, but they’re also the easiest to stain. Here’s how to keep them bright.

Leather or Faux Leather

Tools needed: soft cloth, toothbrush, dish soap, water, baking soda (optional)

Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water
Dip a toothbrush in the solution and gently scrub
Wipe clean with a damp cloth
For scuff marks, try a baking soda paste or sneaker cleaner
Let air dry completely—never in direct sun, which can yellow the material

Canvas

Tools needed: mild detergent, water, brush, towel

Mix warm water with mild detergent
Scrub with a soft-bristled brush
Rinse lightly with a damp towel
Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area
Avoid putting canvas shoes in the dryer, which can warp the shape

How to Remove Summer-Specific Stains

From grass and sweat to ice cream spills, here’s how to handle seasonal messes:

Grass Stains

Mix baking soda with white vinegar to form a paste
Apply to the stain, scrub gently, and rinse after 15 minutes

Sweat Odor

Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe overnight
For deep smells, mix water with a drop of tea tree oil and spray the insoles lightly

Sunscreen or Lotion

Blot immediately with a paper towel
Use a mild detergent and toothbrush to work out the stain

Food or Drink Spills

Spot clean as soon as possible using a damp cloth and dish soap
Avoid using bleach, which can damage colored materials

Sneaker Cleaning Tips by Material

Every material reacts differently to summer conditions. Tailor your cleaning method based on the type of sneaker.

Mesh and Knit

Remove laces and insoles
Use a gentle soap and toothbrush
Rinse with a damp cloth
Air dry away from heat

Pro tip: Mesh is prone to soaking up odors. Use a sneaker deodorizer spray once a week.

Suede

Never use water
Use a suede brush to clean surface dirt
For stains, use a suede eraser or white vinegar on a soft cloth
Stuff the shoes with paper to hold shape while drying

Rubber Soles

Scrub with dish soap and an old toothbrush
Magic erasers work well for scuffs and yellowing midsoles

How to Wash Sneaker Laces and Insoles

Don’t forget the small details—clean laces and insoles make your shoes feel brand new.

Laces

Soak in warm, soapy water
Scrub with a brush, then air dry
For stubborn stains, add a bit of baking soda to the soak

Insoles

Sprinkle with baking soda and let sit for a few hours
Or scrub with a solution of water and vinegar
Rinse and air dry before placing back in the shoe

Summer Storage Tips to Prevent Wear and Tear

Proper storage is part of any good sneaker cleaning routine, especially when summer brings more frequent use.

Keep sneakers out of direct sunlight
Store in a breathable shoe bag or box
Use shoe trees or stuff with paper to maintain shape
Don’t leave sneakers in a hot car or garage
Rotate between at least two pairs to give each time to air out

How Often Should You Clean Your Sneakers in Summer?

The answer depends on use, but general guidelines include:

Every wear: Quick wipe down and air-out
Weekly: Deeper clean for odor and dirt
Monthly: Full cleaning routine with insoles, laces, and deep scrub

For white or lighter sneakers, you may want to spot clean every few days to prevent long-term stains.

Best Sneaker Cleaning Products for Summer Use

You can use household products, but some dedicated cleaners offer extra benefits. Look for:

Sneaker wipes: Great for travel and daily use
Foaming cleaners: Safe on most materials and easy to apply
Water and stain repellent sprays: Add a protective layer after cleaning
Deodorizing sprays: Keep your shoes smelling fresh

Always test a small patch before applying any cleaner across the entire shoe.

Why Summer Sneaker Cleaning Pays Off

Summer sneakers take more wear than at any other time of year. Regular cleaning helps in several ways:

Prevents long-term staining
Extends the life of each pair
Improves comfort by removing sweat buildup
Keeps shoes looking sharp and stylish

Plus, it protects your investment—especially if you buy high-quality pre-owned sneakers from trusted sources like SneakerCycle.

Final Thoughts

The right sneaker cleaning tips make all the difference, especially during the heat and hustle of summer. Whether you're rocking white leather Nikes or breathable mesh runners, staying ahead of dirt, sweat, and wear keeps your sneakers looking their best all season long.

With a few simple tools and consistent habits, you can protect your footwear, save money, and enjoy your favorite sneakers longer.