If you know how to clean them you will extend your beloved shoes’ life and save up your budget.
There’s something special about a fresh pair of shoes right out of the box. From that new shoe smell to the unblemished look—we all love a brand new pair. Of course the more you wear your favorite pair, you have to understand that a little dirt or grime will show up over time. Or if you’re unlucky, you’ll accidentally step in mud—or something worse! And if we’re talking about kids—all bets are off when it comes to keeping anything they wear pristine.
Fortunately, we have some tips to help keep your Skechers in the best shape possible. With proper care you can extend the life and look of your favorite pair.
A few notes before we begin…
Never machine wash light-up shoes—or any shoes that include any form of electronics. The batteries and wires don’t like being fully submerged in water! For regular non-leather sneakers, first try to hand wash the shoes with cold water using a damp cloth with a mild detergent.
NYLON / MESH SHOES
Most non-leather casual shoes can be safely machine washed—if needed—on the gentle cycle and air-dried. Apply a protectant such as Skechers Water Proofer Spray to guard the shoes from water and stains. For shoes with Skechers Memory Foam™ insoles, allow shoes and insoles to air dry for 10 to 12 hours to ensure the insoles are fully dry.
PERFORMANCE SHOES
Machine washing Skechers GOwalk and Skechers GOrun shoes is not recommended. Start by removing excess dirt from the upper and outsole by using a small brush or towel. Then create a soapy mixture by combining warm water and a small amount (a few drops) laundry detergent. Finally, dip the brush or cloth into the soapy mixture. Wipe down the affected area. Apply a small amount of clean, warm water with the brush or cloth and brush/wipe off the excess soap. Allow the shoes to air dry.
LEATHER SHOES
Apply a protectant such as Skechers Water Proofer Spray to guard the shoes from water and stains before wearing in wet conditions. Use a leather cleaning lotion or spray such as Skechers Athletic Cleanser to clean. Apply a leather lotion or oil periodically to keep the leather supple. Do not machine wash leather shoes.
For smooth leather, the shoes will need cleaning and care with shoe creams or polishes. Select a neutral shade or a color nearest to the color of the shoes. Remove all the dust with a damp cloth. Never polish wet shoes.
For scuff resistant leather, remove minor scuffs by simply rubbing them with your hand. The natural oil in your hand restores the original look of the leather. For deeper scrapes and scuffs, use a soft and neutral polish. This process moisturizes and replenishes the natural oil in the leather leaving a shiny coating that will prolong and sustain the wear of the leather.
SUEDE OR NUBUCK SHOES
Apply a protectant such as Skechers Water Proofer Spray to guard the shoes from water and stains before wearing in wet conditions. Do not machine wash suede or nubuck shoes. When shoes are dry, brush with a dry rubber sponge or soft brush to eliminate any clinging dirt. Regular use of a soft brush will keep the nap of the suede free from dust.
LIGHT-UP SHOES
Machine washing light-up shoes is not advised as it may damage the lights. Clean with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth.
DRYING WET SHOES
Never put wet shoes in a clothes dryer or near a heat source—this includes anything that would force dry your shoes like a radiator, tumble dryer, fireplace, hairdryer or any other source of direct heat. The heat source may melt or otherwise damage your shoes. Always allow shoes to dry naturally at room temperature. Stuff the shoes with paper and let them air dry. Use a shoetree to help your shoes maintain their shape when not in use.
ELIMINATING ODOR
Apply a deodorizing product such as Skechers Odor Eliminator Spray to keep shoes fresh and odor-free. This spray is specifically formulated to deodorize and freshen Skechers footwear and you can find it on SKECHERS.com here.
Another effective solution to this issue is Baking Soda or Activated Charcoal (which can be found at most pet stores that sell fish tank/aquarium items). Simply put the powder of your choice in a bag, set your shoes on top of the powder, tie up the bag and let the shoes sit in the bag for 2 to 3 days.
