How to clean leather sneakers
The particularity of sneakers is that they are rarely made of a single material.
For other cleaning tutorials, go here.
For ease of use, natural, synthetic and vegetable leathers (corn, grapes, etc.) are grouped here.
What you need to know when cleaning leather sneakers
The leather used in the sneaker industry is in most cases of lower quality than the one used for classic shoes. Because of the many different finishes that exist, it's difficult to generalize about leather care for sneakers, but in most cases, the leather has been rectified and can wear out quickly. If the leather is greasy, full-grain or patent, consider using care products specifically designed for these types of leather.
How to clean leather sneakers in 6 easy steps
1. PREPARE
2. DUST OFF
3. CLEAN THE LACES
4. CLEAN THE SOLE
5. CLEAN THE LEATHER
6. DRY
1. Prepare the elements of the kit as well as a bowl of warm water and a towel if necessary. Shake the cleaner.
In addition to the Bascket products and a bowl of warm water, it is recommended that you use a towel to protect the surface on which you will be cleaning the shoes. Shake the bottle to mix the cleaner.
2. Dry-brush the shoes.
Remove excess dirt by brushing the shoe with the soft brush.
If you are dealing with mud, remove it as mush as possible. This will prevent the mud residue from getting wet and complicate the cleaning process.
3. Remove the laces and soak them in water. Rub them between your hands with a combination of water and cleaning solution.
This step is not mandatory but it is highly recommended to remove the laces to clean them thoroughly and to have access to the dirt that settles the tongue.
If they are slightly dirty, spray a liberal amount of solution directly onto the laces. Then rub them with water as if you were washing your hands. Rinse, wring out and dry the laces.
If they need more work, unscrew the spray cap and pour a small amount of solution on the laces. Rub them with water for a few seconds between your hands until foam appears. Soak them for 10 minutes in hot water. Rub them with the cleaning solution and soak them again for a few minutes. Repeat if necessary. Then rinse, wring out and dry the laces.
4. Spray the solution on the sole and leave it on for a few seconds. Dip the hard brush into the bowl of water and scrub without putting pressure. Then wipe off.
Spray the solution from a distance of 5 cm on the sole and let it work for a few seconds. Dip the brush into the bowl of water and scrub the sole in a straight motion. Don't force the movement, let the bristles of the brush do the work. Wipe with the microfiber or the towel.
If stains remain, spray more solution and leave for longer. Scrub again with hot water. If necessary, wrap the microfiber cloth around your index finger, dampen it and apply a small amount of solution. Then rub vigorously.
5. Spray the solution on the leather and leave it on for a few seconds. Dip the soft brush into the bowl of water and scrub gently. Then wipe off.
If the water is dirty, replace it.
Spray the solution onto the leather from a distance of 5 cm and leave it on for a few seconds. Dip the soft brush into the bowl of water and brush in a circular motion. Don't force the movement, let the bristles of the brush do the work. Wipe with the microfiber or the towel.
If stains remain, spray more solution and let it sit longer. Brush again. If necessary, use the stiff brush gently. Be careful not to damage the leather. You can also wrap the microfiber around your index finger, dampen it and apply a small amount of solution. Then rub vigorously.
Cleaning tips for leather sneakers
Test the reaction of the leather
Some leathers are more sensitive to water than others. Test the leather's reaction to water on a hidden area.
If the leather is too sensitive, use the microfiber with a small amount of water and cleaning solution.
Do not saturate the leather with water
Too much water can deform and damage some leathers. Limit the use of water when cleaning your leather sneakers.
Use the soft brush or the microfiber
The hard brush can scratch some types of leather. Use it with care. Do not press the movement to prevent damaging the leather.
6. Blot with the microfiber or a towel. Let air dry.
Wipe clean. Place a cloth in the shoes, this will help them keep their shape while drying. Let them air dry. Avoid the dryer or heat sources such as radiators. Relace the shoes once they are dry.
Cleaning tips for leather sneakers
Place a cloth inside the shoes while they dry
Recommended for all types of materials but especially for leather to keep its shape while drying.
Nourish the leather
Some leathers need to be nourished and conditioned. If necessary, nourish the leather only when completely dry with a leather conditioner. Seek the advice of a leather specialist, such as your shoemaker, if necessary.
Need help?
Send an email to hello@shopbascket.com and I will come back to you as soon as possible.
