5 Easy Steps: How to Clean Inside of Shoes

Shoe Cleaning
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Shoes, especially the ones we love to wear, often go through a lot. They can get dirty, smelly, and even harbor bacteria. That’s why it’s important to clean our shoes regularly. However, cleaning the outside of shoes is not enough. You also need to clean the inside of your shoes to keep them fresh and free of odor. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean the inside of your shoes.

To start, you will need a few supplies such as a soft brush, a mild soap solution, a clean cloth, and a shoe deodorizer. First, remove the laces from your shoes and soak them in the soap solution. Then, use the soft brush to gently scrub the inside of your shoes, paying special attention to areas that are particularly dirty or smelly. Once you have scrubbed the inside of your shoes, rinse them with clean water and blot them dry with the clean cloth. Finally, apply the shoe deodorizer to the inside of your shoes and allow them to air dry completely.

By following these simple steps, you can keep the inside of your shoes clean and fresh. This will help to extend the life of your shoes and keep your feet healthy and comfortable. Additionally, cleaning the inside of your shoes regularly will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus, which can cause foot odor and other problems.

Inspecting the Shoe Interior

Before cleaning your shoes’ interior, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect them to assess the level of dirt, stains, and odors present. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Empty the Shoes: Remove any loose items, such as insoles, laces, or debris, from the shoes.
Examine the Insoles: Check the insoles for visible dirt, sweat stains, or odors. Remove the insoles if possible for further inspection and cleaning.
Inspect the Interior Lining: Use a flashlight to illuminate the shoe’s interior and carefully examine the lining. Look for stains, discoloration, or signs of mold growth.
Check the Tongue and Collar: Lift the shoe’s tongue and inspect the interior of the collar area for dirt or odors. These areas often trap moisture and bacteria.
Assess the Toe Box: Check the toe box for dirt, stains, or indentations that may indicate wear or damage.
Use a UV Light for Odor Detection: For shoes with persistent odors, consider using a UV light to detect the presence of bacteria or mold that may not be visible to the naked eye.

By meticulously inspecting the shoe’s interior, you can better determine the appropriate cleaning methods and address any specific areas of concern effectively.

Using a Soft Brush

To begin, choose a brush with soft bristles, preferably made of natural materials like horsehair or goat hair. Avoid using stiff-bristled brushes, as they can damage the material of your shoes. Gently brush away any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoes, paying attention to areas where dirt tends to accumulate, such as the seams and around the toe.

For more stubborn dirt or stains, apply a small amount of a mild cleaning solution directly to the brush and work it into the stained area using circular motions. Be cautious not to over-saturate the brush or the shoes, as excessive moisture can damage the material.

Once you have removed all visible dirt, wipe down the shoes with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them or storing them away.

Additional Tips for Using a Soft Brush:

Tip	Description
Use a separate brush for each color of shoes	This prevents color transfer from one shoe to another.
Gently brush in the direction of the material’s nap	This helps prevent damage to the material.
Use a soft brush to polish shoes	After cleaning, apply a small amount of shoe polish to the brush and gently work it into the material using circular motions.

Cleaning With a Damp Cloth

For quick cleanups or light stains, a damp cloth is a simple and effective solution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Gather materials: Gather a soft, clean cloth or microfiber towel, water, and a mild soap or cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh detergents or cleaners that could damage the material.
Prepare the solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap or cleaning solution with water in a bowl or spray bottle.
Dampen the cloth: Dip the cloth or towel into the solution and wring out any excess water. The cloth should be damp but not dripping wet.
Wipe down the shoes: Gently wipe the inside of the shoes with the damp cloth, focusing on areas with dirt or stains. Avoid excessive scrubbing, which could damage the material. For stubborn stains, you can lightly dab the area with the damp cloth and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away.
Rinse the cloth: Rinse the cloth or towel with clean water and wring it out to remove any dirt or cleaning solution. Repeat the wiping process until the inside of the shoes is clean.
Allow to air dry: Once the shoes are clean, allow them to air dry completely. Do not use heat to dry the shoes, as this can damage the material or cause shrinking.

Additional Tips for Cleaning with a Damp Cloth:

Always test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the shoe to ensure it does not cause any damage.
Use a microfiber towel or a soft cloth designed for cleaning delicate surfaces.
Avoid scrubbing too hard, especially on leather or suede, as this can damage the material.
For stubborn odors, you can add a few drops of white vinegar to the cleaning solution. Vinegar has natural odor-absorbing properties.
If the shoes are heavily soiled, you may need to repeat the cleaning process several times.

Utilizing Shoe Cleaning Solutions

1. Identify the Shoe’s Material:

The type of cleaning solution you use will depend on the material of your shoes. Check the manufacturer’s label for specific recommendations.

2. Test the Solution:

Before applying any cleaning solution to the entire shoe, test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage the material.

3. Use a Soft Brush:

When using a cleaning solution, apply it gently using a soft brush. Avoid using harsh scrubbing brushes, as they can damage the leather or suede.

4. Rinse Thoroughly:

After cleaning, rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water. This will remove any residual cleaning solution and prevent discoloration.

5. Types of Shoe Cleaning Solutions:

Shoe Material	Cleaning Solution
Leather	Shoe polish, leather cleaner or saddle soap
Suede	Suede brush or cleaner
Canvas	Laundry detergent or baking soda
Mesh	Mild soap and water
Rubber	Dish soap and water

Deodorizing the Shoes

Shoes can accumulate unpleasant odors over time, especially if they’re worn frequently. Here are some effective methods to deodorize your shoes:

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. Vacuum or shake out the excess powder in the morning.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is another effective odor absorbent. Place a few pieces of activated charcoal in a small cloth bag and leave it inside your shoes for several hours or overnight.

White Vinegar

White vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help neutralize odors. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution inside your shoes and allow them to air dry.

Tea Bags

Used tea bags can help absorb odors and leave a pleasant scent. Place a few tea bags inside your shoes and leave them in for several hours or overnight.

Essential Oils

Essential oils with disinfecting properties, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, or eucalyptus oil, can help freshen shoes. Add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spray the solution inside your shoes.

Cat Litter

Cat litter has excellent odor-absorbing capabilities. Pour some cat litter into a coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band. Place the litter filter inside your shoes and let it sit for several hours or overnight.

Drying the Shoes Effectively

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the inside of your shoes, it’s crucial to dry them effectively to prevent the growth of bacteria and odors. Here are seven detailed steps to ensure your shoes are completely dry:

1. Air Drying

Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. Avoid drying them in direct sunlight, as this can damage the materials.

2. Use a Fan

Set up a fan near your shoes to accelerate the drying process. The airflow will help to remove moisture faster.

3. Stuff with Newspaper

Fill your shoes with crumpled-up newspaper. The paper will absorb moisture and help to keep the shoes in shape.

4. Use a Hairdryer (Caution)

If you’re in a hurry, you can use a hairdryer on the lowest heat setting to dry your shoes. Hold the dryer at a distance of 6-8 inches and move it around to avoid overheating.

5. Use a Shoe Dryer

Investing in a shoe dryer can be an effective way to dry your shoes quickly and thoroughly. These devices use warm air to circulate through the shoes, ensuring even drying.

6. Silica Gel Packets

Place silica gel packets inside your shoes. These packets will absorb moisture and help to keep your shoes dry.

7. Avoid Heat Sources

Never place your shoes directly on a heater or radiator. Excessive heat can damage the materials and cause them to shrink or crack. Additionally, it can promote bacterial growth.

Preventing Future Buildup

9. Proper Storage

Properly storing your shoes is crucial for preventing future buildup. Never store damp or wet shoes; dry them thoroughly beforehand. Stuff shoes with newspaper or shoe trees to maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Ventilate shoes by removing insoles and ensuring airflow. Use shoe deodorizers to neutralize odors and keep shoes fresh. Regularly cleaning the inside of your shoes is essential to prevent buildup and maintain their hygiene and longevity.

Additionally, consider the following tips to further prevent buildup:

Tip	Description
Use Shoe Bags	Keep shoes protected from dust and dirt by storing them in individual shoe bags.
Regularly Brush Shoes	Remove loose dirt and debris from shoes with a soft-bristled brush.
Avoid Moisture	Protect shoes from rain and snow by using protective sprays or waterproofing agents.
Wear Socks	Wearing socks helps absorb sweat and moisture, reducing buildup inside shoes.
Inspect Frequently	Regularly check the inside of shoes for any signs of buildup and address them promptly.

Seeking Professional Cleaning Assistance

If home remedies and DIY techniques fail to address the issue effectively, consider seeking professional cleaning assistance. Professional shoe cleaners possess specialized equipment and expertise to restore your footwear to pristine condition.

10 Advantages of Professional Cleaning:


1. Deep Cleaning:	Thorough cleaning that removes stubborn dirt, stains, and odors.
2. Odor Removal:	Specialized treatments eliminate unpleasant odors caused by sweat, bacteria, or moisture.
3. Stain Removal:	Expert techniques to effectively remove various stains, including grease, food, and dye.
4. Restoration:	Repairs shoes to improve their appearance and extend their lifespan.
5. Material Care:	Knowledgeable about different shoe materials, ensuring proper treatment and preservation.
6. Deodorizing:	Special products and techniques eliminate unpleasant odors and freshen up shoes.
7. Protection:	Applies protective coatings to repel water, dirt, and stains.
8. Convenience:	Time-saving and effortless, allowing you to focus on more important tasks.
9. Guarantee:	Many professional cleaners offer guarantees for their services, ensuring satisfaction.
10. Footwear Enhancement:	Improves the overall appearance of your shoes, making them look like new again.

How To Clean Inside Of Shoes

Cleaning the insides of shoes is essential for maintaining foot hygiene and preventing unpleasant odors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean the inside of your shoes:

Remove Laces and Insoles: Start by removing the laces and insoles from the shoes. Laces can be washed separately, while insoles should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Wipe Down the Inside: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside of the shoes, removing any loose dirt or debris. Pay attention to areas that tend to accumulate sweat and bacteria, such as the toe box and heel.
Use a Shoe Cleaning Spray: Apply a shoe cleaning spray to the inside of the shoes and allow it to sit for the recommended time. These sprays often contain antibacterial agents that help eliminate odors and kill bacteria.
Scrub with a Brush: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the inside of the shoes, focusing on areas that need extra attention. Be careful not to damage the lining of the shoes.
Wipe Down Again: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the inside of the shoes again, removing any remaining cleaning solution or debris.
Dry Thoroughly: Allow the shoes to air dry completely before putting them back together. Avoid using heat, as this can damage the materials.