Keeping New Balance sneakers looking fresh involves the right supplies and a simple, repeatable routine. This guide outlines a practical, step-by-step method to clean common New Balance materials while protecting color, texture, and integrity of the footwear.
With the right tools and a steady approach, cloth, brushes, and gentle cleaners can remove dirt, restore brightness, and extend the life of your sneakers without damage.
Quick Answer
Use a dedicated sneaker cleaning kit tailored to your shoe material, a soft brush, microfiber cloth, and a light detergent. For odor, finish with an odor-eliminating spray. Dry naturally away from direct heat to preserve shape and materials.
What You’ll Need
- sneaker cleaning brush set nylon bristle
- canvas sneaker cleaning kit with detergent
- suede nubuck sneaker cleaner kit brush
- microfiber towel cloth for sneakers cleaning
- odor eliminating spray for sneakers
Before You Start
Inspect the shoe to identify material zones: canvas, suede, or nubuck. Use the appropriate brush for each area to avoid scuffing. Remove loose dirt with a dry cloth or brush before applying any cleaner. Protect the midsole and laces by removing or bagging them, if possible. Time estimate: 15–30 minutes per cleaning session, plus drying time. Important: never saturate suede or nubuck with water, and avoid harsh chemical cleaners that can discolor fabrics.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean New Balance Shoes
- Remove laces and insoles if possible; wash laces separately in warm water and a small amount of detergent.
- Dry brush the exterior to lift loose dirt from canvas, suede, and nubuck surfaces.
- Mix a small amount of detergent with water according to kit directions; test a hidden area for colorfastness.
- For canvas areas, dip a soft nylon-bristle brush into the solution and scrub in circular motions to lift dirt.
- For suede or nubuck portions, use a dedicated suede brush or nubuck cleaner designed for delicate textures; brush in one direction to lift grime without damaging nap.
- Wipe away excess moisture with a microfiber towel; avoid soaking the material, especially suede and nubuck.
- Rinse canvas sections with a lightly damp cloth to remove soap residue; do not saturate the fabric.
- Pat dry with a clean microfiber towel and allow shoes to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight to prevent fading or warping.
- Once dry, reassemble laces and reset shape by stuffing with paper or using shoe trees if available.
- Apply an odor-eliminating spray to the interior and exterior to refresh the scent and extend time between cleanings.
- Brush suede or nubuck lightly after drying to restore nap, if needed.
- Store in a cool, dry place and avoid crushing the toe box during storage.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoe still stained after cleaning | Stubborn stains on canvas or suede | Re-clean with a bit more gentle cleaner; spot-treat with material-specific product | Test cleaners in hidden areas first |
| Color fading or water staining | Over-wetting suede or nubuck | Stop water exposure; use minimal moisture; dry thoroughly | Use material-specific sprays and brushes |
| Unpleasant odor remains | Moisture trapped inside | Air-dry longer; spray interior with odor eliminator; consider baking soda resets | Dry completely after each wear; store with vents |
| Wrinkles or misshapen toe box | Excess heat or improper drying | Dry away from heat; stuff with paper during drying | Follow material drying guidelines |
Common Mistakes
- Using hot water or strong detergents on suede or nubuck
- Over-wetting the shoe, especially fabric and leather-adjacent areas
- Scrubbing aggressively that can wear away fabric or nap
- Forgetting to dry completely, which can lead to odors or mold
Sticking to gentle, material-specific care reduces damage risk and preserves color and texture.
Tips For Best Results
- Brush before cleaning to remove loose dirt and prevent grinding grime into fibers.
- Use a dedicated kit per material type to protect delicate surfaces.
- Test cleaners on an inconspicuous area to prevent color transfer or staining.
- Pat-dry with a microfiber cloth rather than wringing or squeezing.
- Air dry completely; avoid dryers or direct sun to prevent warping and fading.
Call A Professional
Seek professional help if shoes have extensive abrasion, deep stains, or sentimental value. Stop-use if the material shows excessive wear, color transfer to other items, or if odors persist after multiple cleanings. Professionals can restore suede and nubuck with specialized equipment and products beyond at-home kits.
FAQ
Can I use regular household detergent to clean canvas sneakers?
Yes, a mild detergent and water solution works well on canvas, but use gentle amounts to avoid leaving residues.
Is it okay to use a hairdryer to speed up drying?
No. Excess heat can warp materials; air drying is safer for most New Balance sneakers.
Should I clean insoles separately?
Yes. Remove insoles and wash them by hand if possible; let them dry completely before reinserting.
How often should I clean sneakers?
Clean lightly after heavy wear, and deeper clean every few weeks depending on activity and conditions.
Buying Guide
When selecting cleaning gear for New Balance sneakers, consider the material mix in your wardrobe. A versatile kit that includes both canvas-focused and suede-safe tools helps manage most everyday pairs. Key buying factors include size and scope of the kit, noise level of brushes (quiet nylon bristles preferred for indoor use), and the presence of a dedicated detergent and odor-control components. Look for a microfiber cloth with gentle abrasion and a spray labeled for sneakers to manage odors. For storage and future use, choose compact, easy-to-clean containers and ensure the tools are clearly labeled for canvas versus suede care. Finally, assess how the kit fits into your routine: regular, lighter cleanings may reduce the need for intensive sessions later. Would you benefit from a single, all-in-one kit or split components for material-specific care? Consider your typical sneaker materials and cleaning frequency to decide what best fits your needs.