Sneaker Cleaning at Home: Do's and Don'ts

The internet is full of sneaker "hacks", and half of them will wreck your shoes. Here's what actually works.

Do

• Knock off loose dirt and remove the laces before you start.
• Use a soft brush with mild soap and lukewarm water.
• Clean midsoles with a little baking soda paste — it's gentle and effective.
• Air-dry away from direct heat, stuffed with paper to hold shape.

Don't

• Don't machine-wash — it deforms the sole and loosens the glue.
• Don't use whitening toothpaste on coloured uppers; it bleaches unevenly.
• Don't dry leather or suede in the sun — it cracks and stiffens.
• Don't soak knit sneakers; they hold water and smell.

Suede & leather

These need a dry process and a protective finish, not water. That's where a professional shoe spa pays for itself.

LoomLift's shoe care restores shine, kills odour, and protects the material — for sneakers, leather, suede and boots.