KicksWrap: A Guide to Cleaning New Balance Shoes

14th November 2024 EDT FEATURES

KicksWrap: A Guide to Cleaning New Balance Shoes

Learn the best methods for cleaning, including how to tackle stubborn suede stains, maintain leather, and protect your shoes after washing.

KicksWrap: A Guide to Cleaning New Balance Shoes

KicksWrap Utility Eraser Retail US$

New Balance sneakers have long been favorites among sneaker enthusiasts, but keeping suede models spotless can be challenging. Dirt tends to show up more easily, leaving many wondering how to keep their kicks looking fresh.

In this article, we’re exploring the best methods for cleaning your New Balance sneakers. Watch as we tackle a heavily soiled pair and explain the steps to follow for a thorough clean.

Common Fabrics Found in New Balance Sneakers

New Balance sneakers are crafted from a variety of materials, each with its own unique care needs. Here’s a quick rundown of the main types you’ll find:

1. Natural Leather (Suede)
Suede is known for its soft, luxurious feel and distinctive matte finish. Over time, the fibers can flatten, and dirt can easily work its way into the texture, making it tough to remove with simple brushing. Suede, along with nubuck, tends to trap dirt, requiring a more hands-on cleaning approach to restore its look.

2. Synthetic Leather
Synthetic leather is designed to mimic the look and feel of genuine leather, offering a smooth, uniform surface that resists dirt and moisture. While it’s less prone to staining, it can accumulate dust over time, so regular cleaning is key to keeping it looking fresh.

3. Woven Fabric (Mesh)
Lightweight and breathable, mesh is a go-to for running shoes and other sporty styles. While its comfort is unmatched, it’s also highly absorbent, making it susceptible to stains. Dust and dirt can quickly accumulate within the fibers, so mesh requires regular attention to prevent heavier build-up.

Now that you know the materials, here’s how to keep your sneakers spotless with these easy steps:

1. Insert a shoe tree.
2. Remove the shoelaces and soak them in the cleaning solution.
3. Brushing.
4. Erasing tough stains.
5. Cleaning the upper.
6. Cleaning the soles.

Insert a Shoe Tree

Before you start cleaning, make sure to insert a shoe tree. Not only does it help smooth out any creases in the leather, but it also enhances your ability to clean. By stretching the upper, the shoe tree makes brushing easier and improves overall cleaning efficiency.

These small but crucial steps ensure your sneakers stay in top shape, so use a well-fitted shoe tree for the best results.

Remove the Shoelaces and Soak in Cleaning Solution

Before you begin the cleaning process, remove the shoelaces. Not only will they get in the way while brushing, but they also collect dirt over time. Soak them in a small container filled with a water and cleaning solution mix. Just a few pumps (about 5) of cleaner should be enough. While the laces soak, you can focus on cleaning the sneakers themselves.

Brushing

Now, it’s time to start brushing. Begin with a dry brush to gently remove surface dust and dirt, prepping the shoe for a deeper clean. This step is essential for removing the larger particles before moving to the next stages.

Erasing Tough Stains

For more stubborn marks, grab a sneaker-specific eraser, like the Utility Eraser, to treat the toughest stains and spots.

• Use a black eraser for suede or nubuck materials.
• Use a white eraser for leather.

This targeted approach will lift stains that the brush can’t tackle, ensuring your sneakers look pristine.

Cleaning the Upper and Soles

With the upper of the shoe, use a soft brush and cleaner to gently scrub away any remaining grime. Instead of pressing down hard, use the brush to cover more area by lightly applying the bristles. Once cleaned, wipe away the excess cleaner with a cloth. If any stains remain, repeat the process until the upper is spotless.

Move on to the sole, using the same cleaning method: apply cleaner, brush, and wipe. Start with the midsole and work down to the outsole for an all-around clean.

Before & After

The results speak for themselves: the midsole will be bright and white, while the upper will look refreshed, with even the toughest mesh stains disappearing. By following the right steps and using the right products, even the dirtiest sneakers can be restored to their former glory.

Aftercare: Keep Your Kicks Looking Fresh

To keep your New Balance sneakers in top shape after cleaning, follow these simple aftercare steps:

• Moisturize with a moisture mist
• Protect the outsole
• Apply a waterproof spray

These essential steps help maintain the leather’s integrity, prevent dirt buildup, and ensure long-lasting freshness.

Moisturize with a Moisture Mist

After cleaning, leather can become dry, so it’s important to restore moisture and shine with a specialized shoe moisture mist. Here’s how to do it:

1. Shake the mist bottle well.
2. Hold it about 15cm from the surface and spray evenly. Avoid spraying too close to prevent stains.
3. Use a soft cloth to gently press the mist into the material.

Once moisturized, finish by applying the right care for each material:

• Leather: Use a sheepskin mitt to polish and restore that glossy, rich shine. If the leather feels soft and supple, you’re good to go.
• Suede and napped materials: After moisturizing, use a brass brush to gently lift the fibers and bring out the texture, giving your suede a smooth, refreshed look.

Protect the Outsole

The outsole takes the most wear, especially around the heel. To protect against abrasion, apply a Heel Plus 3.0 protective seal. Here’s how:

1. Coat the heel area with the included Build Up Primer.
2. Attach the Heel Plus 3.0 to the heel.
3. Press firmly to ensure it adheres.
4. Trim any excess with scissors for a neat finish.

Apply a Waterproof Spray

Seal the deal with a waterproof spray. This not only protects against water but also creates a dirt-repellent barrier, making it harder for grime to stick. The result? Easier clean-ups and long-lasting freshness, even if you spill something. Apply this spray after every cleaning session to keep your sneakers looking their best.

New Balance Cleaning FAQs

Q: Can New Balance sneakers be machine-washed?
If your sneakers are made entirely of fabric materials like mesh, you can machine wash them using regular laundry detergent. However, it’s important to note that most New Balance sneakers are made from a combination of materials, including leather, making them unsuitable for a full wash.

When leather gets wet, it loses its natural oils, which can lead to issues like:

• Cracking
• Fading
• Hardening

Plus, the adhesive used in the soles is often water-soluble, meaning water exposure could weaken the glue, causing stains or even deterioration of the upper part of the sneaker. To avoid these risks, always opt for a cleaner designed specifically for sneakers.

Q: Can I use baking soda on New Balance sneakers?
If your sneakers are made entirely from fabric, it’s possible to use products like baking soda, but it’s not recommended for most mixed-material sneakers. For peace of mind and the best results, it’s always safer to use a dedicated sneaker cleaner.

Q: Is it safe to use OxiClean on New Balance sneakers?
Absolutely not. Soaking your sneakers in OxiClean is a big no-no. The rubber soles and synthetic materials can break down or even melt. There have been reports of sneakers becoming damaged or falling apart after being treated with OxiClean.

Although New Balance sneakers sometimes feature fabric or mesh elements that might seem safe for OxiClean, the risks far outweigh any potential benefits. Stick with a sneaker-specific cleaner to ensure your sneakers stay in tip-top shape.

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