How to Clean Mesh Sneakers Without Ruining Them

Mesh and knit sneakers are comfortable and breathable, but they collect dirt quickly. Cleaning them properly keeps them looking good and helps them last longer. Cleaning them badly, especially with heat or harsh chemicals, can damage the adhesives and foams that hold them together. Here is a gentle method that works for most athletic shoes.

Always check the manufacturer's care instructions first. If they differ from this guide, follow the manufacturer.

What you need

• A soft brush (a soft toothbrush works well for detail)
• Two bowls of lukewarm water, not hot
• A small amount of mild soap, such as gentle dish soap or a dedicated sneaker cleaner
• Microfiber cloths or clean towels
• Paper towels or plain paper for drying

Avoid bleach, harsh solvents and abrasive scrubbers unless the manufacturer says they are safe for your shoe. They can discolor mesh, weaken fibers and break down glues.

Step 1: Prep the shoes

1. Remove the laces and insoles. They are cleaned separately.
2. Knock off loose dirt. Tap the soles together outside, then brush off dry dirt from the upper and sole.
3. Let mud dry first. Wet mud smears into mesh. Dry mud brushes off much more easily.

Step 2: Clean the upper

1. Mix a small amount of soap into one bowl of lukewarm water.
2. Dip the brush, shake off excess water, and gently scrub the mesh in small circles. Do not soak the shoe.
3. Wipe away the foam with a damp cloth dipped in the clean-water bowl.
4. Repeat on stubborn areas rather than scrubbing harder.

For knit uppers, be especially gentle; hard scrubbing can cause fuzzing or pulls.

Step 3: Clean the midsole and outsole

Midsoles (the foam sides of the sole) and outsoles (the rubber bottom) can take a little more scrubbing. Use the brush and soapy water, paying attention to the grooves in the outsole. A toothpick can remove stones stuck in the tread.

Some people use a melamine sponge on white midsoles. It is mildly abrasive, so test it on a small hidden area first, and do not use it on the mesh.

Step 4: Laces and insoles

Laces: Soak them in warm soapy water, rub them together, rinse and hang to dry. Very dirty laces are cheap to replace.

Insoles: Wipe the top with a damp soapy cloth, then a clean damp cloth. Do not soak them, because many insoles are foam and can take a long time to dry or lose their shape. Let them air dry fully.

Step 5: Dry properly

This step matters most.

1. Blot excess water with a towel.
2. Stuff the shoes loosely with paper towels or plain paper to absorb moisture and help them hold their shape.
3. Leave them to dry at room temperature in a ventilated spot.
4. Replace the paper after a few hours if it becomes damp.
5. Allow them to dry completely, often overnight or longer, before wearing.

Do not use a clothes dryer, radiator, hair dryer or direct sun. Heat can weaken adhesives, warp the shoe and damage foams. See our full guide to drying wet shoes.

What about the washing machine?

Some manufacturers say certain shoes can be machine washed; others advise against it. Machine washing can loosen glue, distort the shape and damage foams. If you decide to use a machine anyway:

• Check the manufacturer's guidance first.
• Remove laces and insoles.
• Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
• Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
• Add towels to balance the load.
• Never put them in the dryer.

Treat it as a last resort, not routine maintenance.

Dealing with odors

• Let shoes dry fully between wears; rotating pairs helps. See how to make shoes last longer.
• Wear moisture-wicking socks.
• Sprinkle a little baking soda inside overnight, then shake it out thoroughly.
• Wash or replace insoles if they hold odor.

How often to clean

A quick brush after muddy wear, and a full clean when they look dirty, is enough for most people. Regular light cleaning is easier on the shoe than occasional heavy scrubbing.

The bottom line

Remove laces and insoles, brush off dry dirt, clean gently with lukewarm water and mild soap, then air dry with paper inside and no heat. It takes a few minutes of work and helps your sneakers look better and last longer.