Everyone loves a pair of sneakers that look as good as new, but not everyone knows the best way to achieve that fresh-out-of-the-box appearance. This article will guide you through the steps of prepping and cleaning your sneakers with a Magic Eraser, followed by how to care for them afterward. With these simple tips, keeping your kicks in pristine condition can be easier than you think.
Prepping Your Sneakers
Step 1: Dry Brush Away the Loose Dirt
Grab a soft-bristled brush like an old toothbrush or a shoe brush and gently but firmly brush the surface of your sneakers. This step removes any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the surface, preventing you from turning mud and grime into a smeary mess once you bring in the Magic Eraser. Give the soles a good brush too, as they often catch most of the dirt.
Step 2: Remove Those Laces
Pull out the laces and set them aside. You can soak them in a soapy water solution or throw them in with your laundry to get them sparkling clean. With the laces out, you'll have better access to clean those hard-to-reach areas under and around the eyelets.
Step 3: Wipe Them Down
Give your sneakers a once-over with a damp cloth. This preliminary sweep dampens the surface slightly, making the Magic Eraser's job a bit easier. Focus on getting rid of any visible surface dirt that didn't budge during your dry brush session.
Step 4: Ready Your Magic Eraser
Take a fresh Magic Eraser and slightly dampen it with water. Squeeze out any excess, as you want it damp but not soaking wet. The Magic Eraser should feel just barely moist to the touch. According to a study by the American Cleaning Institute, using a damp Magic Eraser is more effective at removing stains than using a dry one1.
Using a Magic Eraser on Sneakers
Begin with the soles, using firm, confident strokes to scrub away any stubborn spots or marks. Gradually move to the rubber sides, where you'll see marks and dirt lift away with each rub. Be gentle around any colored fabric or designs to keep those colors vibrant and intact.
Once you've tackled the tougher parts, give the entire shoe a once-over. Run the eraser lightly over surfaces, nudging away any last bits of dirt. After you've finished erasing, rinse the sneaker with a damp cloth to whisk away any residue.
Incorporate this cleaning ritual periodically to keep your sneakers looking and feeling their best. Grab those laces you put aside earlier, weave them back in, and your sneakers are ready to make strides once more. Experts recommend cleaning your sneakers every 1-2 weeks, depending on how often you wear them2.
Post-Cleaning Care for Sneakers
After cleaning your sneakers with a Magic Eraser, proper care steps are crucial to maintain that pristine appearance.
- Air drying is your best friend – resist the temptation to speed the process with direct heat sources.
- Gently pat the exteriors with a clean, dry cloth and let the sneakers air dry in a well-ventilated space, avoiding direct sunlight which can alter the color of your shoes.
- While waiting for them to dry, give your removable shoe inserts or insoles some attention. Sprinkle baking soda on them to eliminate odors or gently wipe them down with a soapy solution. Rinse thoroughly and pat them down with a towel before letting them air dry alongside the sneakers.
- Once everything is completely dry, consider applying a sneaker protector spray suited for the material of your sneakers. A light coat from a distance ensures an even covering without drenching them.
Regular maintenance is key. Light, daily care like wiping down with a soft cloth after each wear and storing them properly prevents build-ups that require deeper cleaning sessions. Giving your sneakers a break between wears not only prolongs their life but helps air out any lingering moisture that could lead to odors or degrade the materials3.
Each round of care reinforces the hard work you've put into making those sneakers look spick-and-span. Continuous care keeps your kicks in tip-top shape for every stride you take.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you've learned not just how to bring back the shine to your sneakers but also how to maintain their look for days to come. Regular care and attention ensure that your efforts today pay off in the long run, keeping your sneakers ready for whatever adventures lie ahead. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in sneaker maintenance—your shoes will thank you for it with every step you take.
- American Cleaning Institute. (2019). Stain Removal Guide. American Cleaning Institute.
- Stout, D. (2021). How Often Should You Clean Your Sneakers? The Sole Supplier.
- Leed, R. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Sneakers. Highsnobiety.
