When it comes to sneakers, most people think a quick wipe or a sporadic clean is enough. But Nike, one of the world’s leading footwear brands, has something surprising to say about how often you should clean your shoes. The advice might just make you rethink your cleaning habits — and it could even save you from ruining your favorite pair of trainers.

Why Nike’s Advice on Cleaning Shoes Could Change Your Routine

If you’re someone who loves sneakers, chances are you’ve seen your kicks go from pristine to worn-out in no time. Over time, wear and tear happen to every pair, but how often should you actually be cleaning your shoes to ensure they last?

For most people, shoes are a part of their daily routine, but cleaning them can often slip through the cracks. Whether it’s a favorite pair of trainers, a stylish set of boots, or any other type of footwear, it’s easy to forget about shoe care once they start to look worn or dirty. Yet, Nike — a global leader in the athletic footwear industry — offers some surprising advice on keeping your shoes in peak condition.

Give your shoes a clean, mate. (**Getty Stock**)

The Struggle: How Shoes End Up Looking Worse for Wear

As much as you might promise to keep your shoes looking fresh, real life gets in the way. After all, sneakers are made for movement, not just for show! You might start out with a clean pair of white sneakers, but before long, they’re looking a little worse for wear. Whether it’s mud stains, dirty soles, or scuff marks on the suede, your shoes are bound to show signs of life.

But here’s the thing: Nike believes in maintaining the integrity of your sneakers, no matter how much you wear them. Their advice may just be the push you need to get your sneakers back in shape.

How Often Should You Be Washing Your Sneakers?

According to Nike, cleaning your shoes regularly is crucial to their longevity and performance. Here’s what Nike suggests:

Every two weeks: Nike recommends cleaning your sneakers at least every two weeks to maintain their condition. This interval ensures that dirt and grime don’t build up and compromise the materials.
Whenever they look dirty: Alternatively, Nike advises cleaning your shoes as soon as they start to look dirty. This is a more flexible approach that accounts for how much you wear your shoes and where your feet take you.

Regardless of your schedule, Nike emphasizes that regular maintenance can help reduce the time and effort needed to clean your shoes, preventing damage and extending their lifespan.

Nike’s Six-Step Shoe Care Routine: The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Sneakers

It’s clear that Nike takes shoe care seriously, and they’ve outlined a simple yet effective six-step routine to clean your sneakers the right way. While it may not be the quickest process, following this guide will help keep your shoes in top shape.

1. Remove Loose Dirt Before diving into any deep cleaning, grab a dry brush (or a spare toothbrush) to remove any loose dirt from the outsole, midsole, and uppers. This simple step is crucial to avoid grinding dirt into the fabric during the cleaning process.

2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap. This solution should be gentle on your shoes, ensuring that the fabric remains intact while still getting rid of dirt. Use this solution to clean the shoelaces, massaging them with your hands before rinsing and blotting them dry with a soft cloth.

3. Clean the Outsole and Midsole Take a soft-bristled brush (a toothbrush or washcloth will work) and gently scrub the outsole and midsole with the cleaning solution. Make sure you clean every part of the sole before drying with a soft cloth to avoid watermarks or soap residue.

4. Wash the Uppers Once the soles are clean, it’s time to tackle the uppers of your shoes. Use the same solution with a soft-bristled brush or damp cloth to clean the fabric. Be sure to scrub gently to avoid damaging the material.

5. Dry the Shoes After cleaning, use a dry microfiber towel or a soft cloth to blot any remaining soap and moisture from the surface of your shoes. Avoid rubbing the fabric to prevent wear and tear.

6. Air Dry Finally, leave your shoes to air dry at room temperature. Be patient, as it can take at least eight hours for them to dry completely. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or using heat sources, as this can damage the material.

Social Media Engagement: How Sneakerheads Are Taking Care of Their Kicks

It’s clear that sneaker culture thrives on social media. With so many enthusiasts sharing tips, tricks, and before-and-after photos, cleaning your sneakers has become a point of pride for many. Here’s what people are saying on social media about their shoe care routines and Nike’s two-week cleaning advice.

Instagram Post: @sneakerheads101

“Nike says to clean your shoes every two weeks, and I finally started doing it. The difference is night and day. Fresh kicks all year long. #ShoeCare #NikeSneakers #CleanKicks” View this post on Instagram

Twitter Post: @FreshKicksExpert

“Just gave my Nikes a deep clean with Nike’s 6-step routine. So worth it. My shoes look brand new! Regular cleaning is the key! 🧼👟 #SneakerCare #NikeTips” Check out this tweet

Facebook Post: Sneakerheads Unite

“I didn’t think cleaning my shoes every two weeks would make a difference, but after trying Nike’s method, I’m hooked. It’s easy to follow, and my sneakers feel so much better! #ShoeMaintenance #SneakerLove” Join the conversation on Facebook

TikTok Video: @TheSneakerDoctor

“Here’s my 6-step routine for keeping my sneakers clean. Huge shoutout to Nike for these awesome tips! Clean sneakers = happy feet!”
Watch the TikTok video

By following these sneaker enthusiasts, you can keep up with the latest trends in shoe care and even learn a thing or two about maintaining your favorite pairs.

Why You Should Stick to Nike’s Cleaning Schedule

It may sound like a lot of work, but trust us, taking the time to clean your shoes every two weeks (or whenever necessary) can pay off in the long run. Not only will it help maintain the appearance of your shoes, but regular cleaning also helps protect the materials from long-term damage, keeping your sneakers in their prime.

It’s also important to remember that proper shoe maintenance isn’t just about aesthetics. Keeping your shoes clean and in good shape ensures that they perform better over time. The last thing you want is for your shoes to lose their grip or cushioning because of accumulated dirt or damage.

The Impact of Not Cleaning Your Shoes Regularly

While it might be tempting to skip the cleaning routine, neglecting your shoes can lead to serious problems. Here’s how:

Dirty Soles Affect Performance: The buildup of dirt and grime on the soles can impact the traction and grip of your shoes, making them less safe to wear, especially for athletic purposes.
Stains and Damage: Over time, dirt and stains can seep into the fabric, making them harder to clean and possibly leading to permanent discoloration.
Odor Issues: Regular cleaning not only keeps shoes looking fresh but also helps remove odor-causing bacteria that can develop over time.

Better start looking after your creps lads. ( **Edward Berthelot/Getty Images** )

Quick Tips for Keeping Your Shoes Fresh Between Cleans

Even if you’re following Nike’s cleaning guidelines, here are some additional tips to help keep your shoes in great condition:

Use Shoe Protectors: Spray a protective coating on your shoes to guard against water and dirt. This can help keep them cleaner for longer.
Rotate Your Shoes: If you have multiple pairs of sneakers, consider rotating them. Giving your shoes time to air out between wears will help maintain their freshness.
Store Properly: Keep your sneakers in a cool, dry place, and use shoe trees or stuff them with paper to help retain their shape.

Engaging with Sneaker Culture: Your Thoughts on Shoe Care

Now that you know Nike’s surprising advice, what do you think? Do you stick to a cleaning schedule, or do you only clean your sneakers when they’re in dire need of it? Share your thoughts on social media and join the conversation using #SneakerCareTips. Let’s see how the sneaker community is taking care of their kicks!

Conclusion: The Importance of Regular Shoe Maintenance

Keeping your shoes clean is an essential part of sneaker care. By following Nike’s advice and sticking to a regular cleaning schedule, you can prolong the life of your shoes, maintain their performance, and keep them looking fresh. Remember, your sneakers are an investment — take care of them, and they’ll take care of you.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock/Focus on Sport via Getty Images