Introduction:

Gym shoes endure a lot of wear and tear, not to mention sweat and odor. With time, they accumulate dirt and grime, making them look dull and smell terrible. To give those gym shoes a new life, follow these 14 steps to wash them thoroughly and effectively.

1. Check the label: Always read the manufacturer’s care instructions on the label before washing your gym shoes. Some shoes might require a specific cleaning method or precautions.

2. Remove dirt and debris: Use a dry brush or toothbrush to remove any loose dirt or debris from your shoes, focusing on the soles and seams.

3. Remove laces and insoles: Take out the shoelaces and insoles from your gym shoes since you need to clean them separately.

4. Pre-treat stains: Apply stain remover or laundry detergent on any visible stains, letting it sit for at least 15 minutes.

5. Fill a basin with water: Fill a container or basin with warm water, ensuring that it’s large enough to accommodate your gym shoes.

6. Add detergent: Pour a small amount of gentle detergent into the water, stirring it until it’s well mixed.

7. Submerge your shoes: Put your gym shoes into the soapy water, ensuring they are fully submerged.

8. Scrub the shoes gently: With a soft brush (such as an old toothbrush), gently scrub all parts of your gym shoes, paying extra attention to any remaining stains or worn areas.

9. Rinse the shoes thoroughly: Drain the soapy water from the basin and refill it with clean water. Completely rinse off any soap residue from your gym shoes until they’re clean.

10. Squeeze out excess water: Hold each shoe over the sink or basin, squeezing gently to remove as much water as possible without damaging the material.

11. Dry your gym shoes: Stuff your gym shoes with crumpled paper towels, newspapers, or white tissue paper to help retain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Air dry the shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

12. Clean laces and insoles: Handwash shoelaces using a mild detergent and warm water, scrubbing them gently with your fingers or a soft bristle brush. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry. Clean the insoles using a mild detergent and a sponge. Rinse them well and air dry too.

13. Reassemble the shoes: Once the shoes, laces, and insoles have dried completely, replace the insoles and re-lace your gym shoes.

14. Deodorize: To prevent odors from returning, sprinkle some baking soda inside your gym shoes overnight and shake it out in the morning.

Conclusion:

By following these 14 steps, you’ll have a pair of clean and fresh-smelling gym shoes ready for your next workout. Remember to maintain proper shoe hygiene by airing out your gym shoes after each use and washing them regularly to avoid excessive dirt buildup and odors.