How to Clean Nike Shoes the Right Way, 100% Like-New at Home Easily

Cleaning your Nike shoes the right way helps remove dirt while limiting damage to the materials and shape of the shoes. Each material also needs a suitable cleaning method to avoid damaging the surface. Let Supersports show you how to clean Nike shoes easily at home, following Nike's shoe care guide from Nike.

What Do You Need to Clean Nike Shoes?

Before cleaning, check the material of your shoes so you can choose the right tools and cleaning method. Here are some items to prepare:

• Soft-bristle brush or a clean toothbrush: Used to remove dirt and clean different areas of the shoes.
• Soft cloth: Used to wipe the shoes and blot away excess solution during cleaning.
• Warm water: Used to mix the cleaning solution.
• Mild laundry detergent or dish soap: Use only a small amount and dilute it with water.
• Shoe trees or newspaper: Place inside the shoes to help hold their shape during cleaning and drying.

How to Clean Nike Shoes at Home in 6 Simple Steps

Once you have all your tools ready, you can start cleaning your Nike shoes by following the 6 steps below. Clean one section at a time to remove dirt without soaking the whole shoe in water.

Step 1: Remove dry dirt

Use a soft-bristle brush or a clean toothbrush to remove soil, sand, and dust from the upper, midsole, and outsole. Do this step while the shoes are still dry so the dirt does not mix with water and sink deeper into the surface.

Step 2: Mix the cleaning solution

Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap. Stir well to create a diluted solution for the next cleaning steps.

Step 3: Clean the shoelaces

Remove the laces from the shoes, apply a small amount of cleaning solution to them, then gently rub with your hands to clean. Next, rinse with water and blot away excess water with a soft cloth before letting them air dry.

Step 4: Clean the soles

Use a soft-bristle brush, a toothbrush, or a soft cloth dipped in the cleaning solution to clean the outsole and midsole. Pay attention to the grooves and spots where dirt builds up easily, then wipe with a soft cloth and blot away any remaining solution.

Step 5: Clean the upper and insoles

Use a soft-bristle brush, a toothbrush, or a damp cloth dipped in the solution to gently scrub the upper. After cleaning, use a soft dry cloth to blot away water, soap, and dirt from the surface instead of rubbing hard with the cloth. You can repeat this if the shoes still have stains.

If you need to clean the insoles, remove them and clean them separately with the prepared solution. Insoles must dry completely before being placed back into the shoes.

Step 6: Air dry the shoes

After cleaning, place the shoes in a well-ventilated area and let them air dry at room temperature. Only wear or use the shoes again once all parts are completely dry.

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How to Clean White Shoes Easily, Thoroughly, and the Right Way at Home

How to Clean Nike Shoes by Material

Depending on the material of each pair of Nike shoes, some cleaning steps need to be adjusted to limit damage to the surface and structure of the shoes.

Nike Flyknit, Knit, and Mesh Shoes

Woven materials should be cleaned gently to avoid affecting the fiber structure:

• Use cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water.
• Use a soft-bristle brush and brush gently in the direction of the woven fibers.
• Adjust the brushing direction in areas where the fiber structure changes.
• Avoid scrubbing hard, as it may scratch, snag, or damage the fibers.
• After cleaning, wipe the surface again with a clean cloth to remove any leftover solution.
• Use a dry cloth to blot away moisture, then let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Nike Leather Shoes

Leather surfaces should be cleaned gently, and the shoes should not be exposed to too much water:

• First, use a soft-bristle brush to remove dry dirt from the surface.
• Use a soft cloth or brush with a small amount of cleaning solution to treat the areas that are still dirty.
• Do not scrub too hard or get the leather too wet.
• After cleaning, wipe the surface again with a clean cloth, then blot dry and let the shoes air dry.

Nike Suede Shoes

Suede is sensitive to moisture, so you should not fully apply the cleaning methods used for smooth leather or fabric:

• If the shoes are damp or covered in mud, wait for the surface to dry before cleaning.
• Use a suede brush to gently brush off dirt.
• Brush in the direction of the suede nap. Avoid scrubbing back and forth hard.
• You can use a suede eraser to treat minor scuff marks.
• Avoid wetting the entire surface during cleaning.
• For stubborn stains: You can dab a cloth with a small amount of white vinegar to gently treat the stained area.

>>> Read more: How to Clean and Care for Running Shoes Properly by Material

Tips for Cleaning Nike Shoes

• Clean each part separately: Remove the laces and insoles if possible, then clean the upper and sole separately.
• Hand clean whenever possible: Avoid machine washing, as it may affect certain materials.
• Do not make the solution too concentrated: Use only a small amount of cleaner diluted with water to help prevent discoloration or damage to the material.
• Do not scrub too hard: Brush gently, especially on the upper and other sensitive surfaces.
• Avoid harsh cleaners: Do not use bleach or strong cleaning agents on Flyknit, knit, and mesh.
• Air dry the shoes: Keep them at room temperature and avoid hair dryers and high heat sources.

>>> See more: How to Get Rid of Smelly Shoes Quickly and Effectively at Home

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Nike Shoes

How Often Should You Clean Nike Shoes?

There is no fixed schedule for every pair of Nike shoes. Nike suggests cleaning them about once every two weeks or whenever they start to look dirty, depending on how often and where you wear them.

Can You Wash Nike Shoes in the Washing Machine?

It is not recommended. Nike recommends hand cleaning because machine washing may affect certain materials or the structure of the shoes. Use a soft-bristle brush and a mild cleaning solution, and clean the shoes one section at a time.

Can You Use Baking Soda to Clean Nike Shoes?

Baking soda can be used on some white or light-colored Nike shoes. However, check the material before trying it, as not every surface is suitable for the same cleaning method.

How Do You Remove Odor From Nike Shoe Insoles?

If the insoles are removable, take them out and clean them separately with a mild cleaning solution. Let them dry completely before putting them back into the shoes. If the odor remains after cleaning, consider replacing the insoles.

Shop Authentic Nike Shoes at Supersports

Explore Nike shoe collections at Supersports now, from running shoes, training shoes to sneakers for everyday style. With a wide range of product lines, designs, and colorways, you can easily choose the right pair for each activity and personal taste. Supersports offers authentic Nike shoes, so you can shop with confidence.

Supersports is VIETNAM'S NO. 1 RETAILER AND DISTRIBUTOR OF AUTHENTIC SPORTS FOOTWEAR, APPAREL, AND ACCESSORIES. The brand is part of Central Retail, a leading retailer from Thailand.

Supersports operates a retail network with more than 30 well-known sports brands such as Nike, Adidas, Crocs, Puma... Among them, Supersports is the official and exclusive distributor of Under Armour, HOKA, and Columbia. We are committed to bringing authentic, top-quality products to sports enthusiasts across Vietnam.