“I’m a sneakerhead and this is how I keep my trainers box-fresh”

From using a soft brush to drying at room temperature – these are the simple ways to clean your trainers, without ruining them. 

Putting on a pair of box-fresh trainers will make you feel ready to take on any challenge, in serious style. The first step to white trainer ownership (see what we did there?) is arguably the hardest: which pair to choose? From chunky and retro trainers, to sleek and simple – the world really is your oyster when it comes to bright kicks. Thankfully, Stylist has done the hard work for you with this guide to the best white trainers to shop now. The next logical thought is how on earth you’ll keep them looking their best.

We’re all-for a more sustainable fashion world, so that’s why we want you to know more about how to reuse, recycle and relove your old trainers. So here’s the 5 steps to cleaning your kicks.

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1. Remove dried on dirt from your trainers

It may sound like a no-brainer, but getting the old dirt off your kicks is the first step to a deep clean. Tap them on a wall outside to loosen any mud that’s stuck on. Then, use a dry, soft-bristled brush (or old toothbrush) to gently clean the body of the trainers. For the sole, use an old butter knife (with rounded edges) to get into the thread and remove stuck in mud. 

• Sneaky Brush

  Perfect for removing dry, trapped dirt. 

  Shop Sneaky Brush premium trainer and shoe cleaning brush, £4.99

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2. Soak the trainer laces

Once you’ve removed the dried on dirt, it’s time to remove the laces. Yes, you could just replace with a new pair but there’s no need when they’re easily cleaned. Mix up a solution of your everyday laundry detergent with a cup of warm water, or if they’re super dirty then mix the water with Vanish stain remover, and soak for a couple of hours. 

Once they’ve had a dip, remove, scrub gently, rinse and then lay out flat on a cloth/towel to dry at room temperature.

• Vanish

  You’ll be able to use this multi-purpose stain remover for clothes and fabric, too. 

  Shop Vanish oxi action stain remover powder, £7.50

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3. Clean trainers with a gentle solution

If your treads just need a freshen up, then use warm water and washing up liquid. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and rub gently in circular motions, but if the stains are more stubborn, then try diluting bleach with some warm water and using that instead. If they’re pretty grimy then use one part bleach to five parts warm water and use the same technique as above. If a cloth still doesn’t work, opt for the old toothbrush trick.

Rinse and repeat as needed and use a clean, dry cloth to pat dry. 

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• E-cloth

  The soft fibres of the cloths won’t damage the leather and suede on your kicks. 

  Shop e-cloth general purpose cloths, £14.98

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4. Scrub the soles of the trainers

You may have got the dried dirt off but now it’s time to make the soles white once again. Use a solution of hot water and washing up liquid or detergent with a bristle brush and scrub. Once you’ve finished with the soles, spray the insoles with Scholl fresh step spray to banish sweaty odours. 

• Scholl

  Refresh your insoles with a quick spray.

  Shop Scholl fresh step shoe spray, £4.49

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5. Dry and spray

The final step is to leave to dry. Stuff the trainers with tissue paper or kitchen roll to soak up any excess moisture, which will also help them to keep their shape. Never dry on the radiator or tumble dry as this can damage the trainer, instead opt to air-dry at room temperature overnight. Once they’re completely dry, spray with a protector to help reduce future stains and scuffs. 

And once they’re sparklingly white again, store your sneaks in a cool, dark place to stop the colours from fading.  

• Jason Markk

  This simple to use spray will protect your trainers to keep them cleaner for longer. 

  Shop Jason Markk repel spray, £11.99 (office.co.uk)

  BUY NOW

Images: Getty and courtesy of brands.

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