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A couple of weeks ago, I was trail running up Batur Mountain in Bali, just like any other day.
But that day? It was pouring rain, and the trail turned into a giant mud pit. My shoes were covered in so much mud, they could’ve been mistaken for clay sculptures.
The next day, I went to grab them for another run—and let’s just say, they could’ve been their own hazard zone.
They were a total wreck, and the smell?
Let’s just say it wasn’t anything I’d want to breathe in. I had to take them to a shoe repair guy to save them from the damage I caused.
Don’t let this happen to you. Let me show you how easy it is to clean your shoes and keep them lasting longer.
Quick Cleaning Kit — What You Actually Need
If you don’t feel like digging through the whole guide, here’s the short version.
These are the tools that make cleaning running shoes way easier.
Best Shoe Cleaning Tools for Runners
Best Shoe Cleaner
Nikwax Tech Wash
Gentle on shoe fabrics and adhesives.
👉 Check current price on Amazon
Best Shoe Brush
Soft Bristle Sneaker Cleaning Brush
Strong enough to remove mud without destroying the mesh.
👉 Compare brushes on Amazon
Best Deep Cleaning Solution
Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
Popular among sneakerheads and runners alike.
👉 View current deals on Amazon
Best Shoe Dryer
Peet Shoe Dryer
Safely dries shoes overnight without heat damage.
👉 See available models on Amazon
If you trail run a lot, a simple cleaning brush and shoe cleaner will save your shoes from an early death.
Why Shoe Care is About More Than Looks
Clean shoes don’t just look good—they help you run better and feel more comfortable. Ever run in shoes full of mud? You’re basically asking for a slip and fall.
I ignored cleaning my shoes after a race, thinking they’d be okay, but trust me, they weren’t.
By mile 5, I felt like I was running on a beach. All that dirt wore down the soles, and I could feel my grip slipping.
Taking care of your shoes now can save you headaches later.
The truth is, dirt and mud slowly break down shoe materials.
Here’s what actually happens.
Mud Breaks Down Foam
Wet mud dries and hardens inside the midsole grooves.
That adds weight and slowly damages the foam structure.
Over time your cushioning starts feeling dead.
Sweat Creates Bacteria
Running shoes collect sweat every run.
Without cleaning, bacteria build up inside the shoe.
That’s what causes the legendary running shoe smell.
Dirt Wears Down Mesh
Tiny grit particles act like sandpaper.
Over time they weaken the upper material and cause tears.
Cleaning removes that abrasive layer.
Pros and Cons of Cleaning Running Shoes
Cleaning your shoes helps — but there’s a right way to do it.
Pros
✔ longer shoe lifespan
✔ better traction
✔ reduced odor
✔ improved comfort
Cons
✖ takes time
✖ improper cleaning can damage shoes
That’s why hand washing is usually better than throwing them in a machine.
Why You Can Trust This Advice
I’ve been trail running long enough to destroy more pairs of shoes than I’d like to admit.
Mud, sweat, volcanic dust, tropical humidity — you name it.
Over time you learn quickly which cleaning habits keep shoes alive and which ones ruin them.
The methods in this guide come from:
- real trail running experience
• years of running gear maintenance
• trial and error with expensive shoes
Cleaning your shoes won’t magically make them new again.
But it will absolutely help them last longer.
How Often Should You Clean Your Shoes?
How often you clean your shoes depends on how much you run and the conditions you run in.
If you’re running often, try cleaning them every couple of weeks.
After a muddy trail run or a rainy race, clean them ASAP.
Pro Tip: I’ve skipped cleaning my shoes too often, and every time, it bites me back.
What You’ll Need for the Job
Let’s make this easy. Here’s what you need to clean your shoes the easy way:
- Mesh laundry bag (for the laces)
- Heavy-duty detergent (athletic shoe cleaner is key)
- Baking soda (for those stinky insoles)
- Scrub brush (old toothbrush works great)
- White tissue paper or towels (to help dry and keep shape)
- Bucket of warm water (avoid hot water, it can damage the shoes)
Gear List for Cleaning Like a Pro
Get the right tools, and you’ll see how much easier it is:
- Soft Bristle Brush: Perfect for scrubbing the uppers without damaging the fabric. Think of it as your shoe’s gentle massage therapist.
- Firm Bristle Brush: For those outsoles that’ve been caked with mud, grit, and who knows what else. This is the heavy-hitter you need to get into the nooks and crannies.
- Dirt Pick: Ever have a rock stuck deep in your shoe tread, and it feels like it’s going to be there forever? Grab a toothpick or a specialized dirt pick to get those tiny stones out.
- Washing Soda: This stuff is like a secret weapon for shoe cleaning. When you mix it with warm water, it works wonders for breaking down dirt, stains, and that post-run funk.
- Mesh Laundry Bag: If you’re putting laces and insoles through the wash, do yourself a favor and toss them in a mesh laundry bag. You’ll avoid the tangling mess and save your gear from any unnecessary damage. Invest in these basics, and you’ll be cleaning like a pro.
Quick Comparison — Shoe Cleaning Tools
Here’s a simple breakdown of the tools runners typically use.
|
Tool |
Best For |
Why It Helps |
|
Soft brush |
upper mesh |
removes dirt gently |
|
Firm brush |
outsoles |
clears mud and stones |
|
Shoe cleaner |
deep cleaning |
removes sweat and odor |
|
Shoe dryer |
drying shoes |
prevents mildew |
👉 Compare shoe cleaning tools
Most runners only need two things
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Running Shoes
Forget the washing machine. I’ve been there, and it’s not worth it. Here’s how to do it by hand, the right way.
- Remove Insoles and Laces. First thing’s first: take out the laces and insoles. This is the most basic step, but it makes a huge difference. Don’t let dirt hide in places you can’t reach. An old toothbrush works great for getting into the eyelets and cleaning out dirt.
- Use the Right Detergent. When I first started cleaning my shoes, I used regular laundry detergent. Bad move. It’ll wear down the fabric and the glue that holds the shoes together. Get a cleaner specifically made for running shoes, like Nikwax Tech Wash or Sport Shoe Wash. These are designed to be gentle on the materials while still getting the job done.
- Scrub the Insoles. Your insoles can get pretty funky if you don’t clean them. Scrub them gently with soapy water and a brush. Don’t soak them—they’re made of foam, and soaking them could ruin their shape. Once cleaned, let them air dry.
- Wash the Shoes. Fill a bucket with warm water (not hot!) and add your detergent. Let the shoes soak for a while, then scrub the soles and uppers with a sponge. For any tough spots or stubborn mud, use the toothbrush to get into the nooks and crannies.
- Dry the Shoes Properly. Don’t even think about throwing them in the dryer. The heat will melt the glue and shrink the materials. Instead, stuff your shoes with tissue paper or towels to absorb moisture and help keep their shape. Let them dry in a cool, dry place—away from direct sunlight.
Soaking Method: Deep Clean That Funk
Sometimes, regular cleaning just won’t cut it. For those shoes that have seen a little too much action—whether it’s mud, sweat, or a mix of both—it’s time for a deep clean.
Here’s a pro tip: if you’ve got shoes that need some serious TLC, it’s time to soak them.
Mix up a hydrogen peroxide, washing soda, and detergent solution. Here’s the breakdown:
- 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide (this stuff’s a miracle worker)
- 1/2 cup washing soda
- 2 tablespoons laundry detergent
Dump your shoes into a bucket or sink with this mixture and let them soak for at least an hour. If they’re really grimy, you can leave them soaking for up to 8 hours—this gives the grime time to break down.
After soaking, give them a good scrub with a stiff brush to get those tough stains out. Rinse them well, and don’t forget to air dry.
This deep-cleaning method will leave your shoes looking fresh and feeling like new, so you can hit the ground running—without the stank or stubborn stains.
Shoe Material Care
Now, if you’re rocking shoes with special materials—like Gore-Tex®—you’ve got to show them some extra care.
Gore-Tex® is great for keeping water out, but it needs to be treated carefully to maintain its performance.
Regular soap and harsh detergents? Nope, that can break down the water-resistant membrane.
Instead, grab a specialized shoe cleaner that’s designed for high-tech materials. A gentle clean will keep your shoes’ water resistance intact, and you won’t end up with soggy feet halfway through a run. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!
Drying Tips: Patience Is Key
Listen up: drying your shoes the wrong way is a rookie move. I get it—you want them ready for your next run ASAP, but no direct heat.
Don’t toss them in the dryer or leave them by the heater.
That intense heat will mess with the glue, shrink the fabric, and warp the shape.
What you want to do is air dry them in a mild-temperature spot.
Stuff the shoes with some paper towels or newspaper to help absorb the moisture and keep the shape intact.
Let them dry naturally—this isn’t a race. If you’re really in a pinch, using a fan can speed things up, but let’s be honest—giving your shoes time to dry properly will help them last longer. Patience, my friend.
The Products I Use
Here’s a list of the products I use often to clean and dry my running shoes.
Quick Comparison
If you don’t want to read the whole cleaning guide, this table gives you a quick overview of the tools runners usually use to keep their shoes alive longer.
| Tool | Best For | Why It Helps | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Bristle Brush | Mesh uppers | Removes dirt without damaging fabric | $8–$15 |
| Firm Bristle Brush | Outsoles | Breaks up dried mud and gravel | $10–$18 |
| Shoe Cleaner (e.g., Nikwax or Jason Markk) | Deep cleaning | Removes sweat, dirt, and odor from shoe materials | $12–$20 |
| Shoe Dryer (e.g., Peet Dryer) | Drying shoes overnight | Dries shoes safely without heat damage | $40–$60 |
| Dirt Pick / Toothpick | Tread cleaning | Removes small rocks stuck in outsole grooves | $3–$10 |
👉 Compare running shoe cleaning tools
A soft brush and a proper shoe cleaner are usually all most runners need for regular maintenance.
Soft brushes help remove dirt without damaging delicate mesh uppers.
Nikwax Tech Wash
Best for: Cleaning trail shoes and preserving fabric performance
Type: Gentle technical fabric cleaner
Works on: Mesh uppers, Gore-Tex shoes, trail running shoes
Pros
✔ Gentle on technical fabrics and adhesives
✔ Works well for muddy trail shoes
✔ Doesn’t damage waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex
✔ Easy to use in hand-wash cleaning
Cons
✖ Slightly more expensive than basic detergents
✖ Not as strong for extremely heavy stains
✖ Requires a separate brush for best results
Coach’s Take
If you run trails a lot, this cleaner is one of the safest options. It removes mud and sweat without wrecking the fabric or weakening the glue holding your shoes together.
Soft Bristle Sneaker Brush
Best for: Cleaning uppers without damaging mesh
Type: Soft bristle cleaning brush
Works on: Knit uppers, mesh fabrics, lightweight trainers
Pros
✔ Gentle on shoe fabric
✔ Removes surface dirt easily
✔ Works well with cleaning solution
✔ Great for regular maintenance
Cons
✖ Too soft for heavy mud on outsoles
✖ Needs stronger brush for deep tread cleaning
✖ Cheap brushes can shed bristles
Coach’s Take
Most runners make the mistake of scrubbing their shoes with something way too aggressive. A soft brush is perfect for uppers—it removes dirt without tearing up the mesh.
Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
Best for: Deep cleaning dirty running shoes
Type: Concentrated shoe cleaning solution
Works on: Mesh, knit, suede, rubber
Pros
✔ Very effective on stubborn stains
✔ Concentrated formula lasts a long time
✔ Popular with sneaker collectors and runners
✔ Works on multiple shoe materials
Cons
✖ Requires proper dilution
✖ More expensive than basic cleaners
✖ Overuse can fade colors if scrubbed too aggressively
Coach’s Take
If your shoes look like they just survived a mud wrestling match, this cleaner can bring them back to life. Just don’t go crazy with the scrubbing.
Peet Shoe Dryer
Best for: Safely drying running shoes overnight
Type: Electric shoe dryer (low heat)
Works on: Running shoes, trail shoes, boots
Pros
✔ Dries shoes safely without damaging glue
✔ Helps eliminate odor and bacteria
✔ Extends shoe lifespan
✔ Great for rainy runs or wet trails
Cons
✖ Higher upfront cost than air drying
✖ Requires electricity
✖ Not portable for travel
Coach’s Take
If you run in wet conditions a lot, a shoe dryer can be a game changer. Wet shoes that stay damp overnight are basically bacteria factories.
Alternative Ways to Clean Running Shoes
Not everyone wants to buy specialized cleaners.
A few simple household options can work too.
Common alternatives include:
- mild dish soap
• baking soda
• vinegar solutions
They work fine for light cleaning.
But for deep cleaning, proper shoe cleaners are usually safer.
Where to Buy Shoe Cleaning Products
Running shoe cleaning gear is easy to find online, and prices vary depending on the brand and kit size.
The stores below usually have the best availability and runner reviews.
You’ll usually find products like Nikwax Tech Wash and Jason Markk shoe cleaner, which are designed to clean technical footwear without damaging materials or adhesives.
My Best Advice?
One thing I always tell runners:
Don’t wait until your shoes look like they survived a mud wrestling match.
A quick cleaning every couple of weeks keeps dirt from grinding into the mesh and midsole foam.
Your shoes will last longer—and they won’t smell like a locker room crime scene.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Running Shoes
Can you wash running shoes in a washing machine?
Some runners do it, but it’s risky.
The agitation and heat can damage glue and foam.
Hand washing is usually safer.
How often should runners clean their shoes?
Every 2–3 weeks if you run frequently.
Immediately after muddy trail runs.
What’s the best way to remove running shoe odor?
Baking soda, proper cleaning, and letting shoes fully dry.
Moisture is what causes the smell.
Can heat damage running shoes?
Yes.
Dryers and heaters can weaken adhesives and warp foam.
Air drying is the safest method.
Do clean shoes last longer?
Usually yes.
Removing dirt and sweat helps protect the materials.
Helpful Running Gear Guides
If you want to keep your gear working longer, these guides might help.
Taking care of your gear is one of the easiest ways to save money as a runner.
Final Coaching Advice
Here’s the truth most runners learn the hard way.
Running shoes take a beating.
Mud, sweat, rain, dust — all of it adds up.
If you ignore cleaning them long enough, the shoes start falling apart faster than they should.
A quick cleaning every couple of weeks can add months to their lifespan.
And if you’ve ever spent $150 on a pair of shoes, you already know…
Keeping them alive a little longer is worth the effort.