How to Clean Shoes in the Bath: Step-by-Step

What You’ll Need

Warm water (not hot)
Mild liquid detergent (like dish soap or laundry detergent) or a dedicated shoe cleaner
Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works well) or a soft cloth
Clean towel(s)
Optional: baking soda, white vinegar, or a gentle stain remover for tough spots

Step-by-Step

Prepare the shoes. Remove the laces and insoles. If the insoles are removable, take them out and set them aside; you can clean them separately with soapy water and let them air-dry. Loosen any caked-on mud or dirt by tapping the soles together over a trash bin.
Fill the tub. Plug the drain and fill the bathtub with a few inches of warm water. Add a small squirt of mild detergent (about a teaspoon) and swish it around to create a light suds. Avoid hot water, which can damage glue and some materials.
Submerge and soak. Place the shoes in the water, soles down. Let them soak for 5–10 minutes to loosen dirt and grime. Do not leave them longer than 15 minutes, as prolonged soaking can weaken adhesives and cause colors to bleed.
Scrub gently. Dip your brush or cloth into the soapy water and scrub the shoes in small circular motions. Focus on the soles, the sides, and any stained areas. For canvas or fabric, use a soft brush; for leather or suede, use a soft cloth and be extra gentle to avoid scratching.
Clean the laces and insoles. While the shoes soak, hand-wash the laces and insoles in the same soapy water. Rub them between your fingers to remove dirt, then rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
Rinse thoroughly. Drain the soapy water. Rinse the shoes under a gentle stream of lukewarm water (or use a clean container of water) until no suds remain. Make sure to rinse the insides as well, especially if you used detergent.
Remove excess water. Press a clean towel against the shoes to absorb excess moisture. Do not wring or twist the shoes—this can deform them. For stubborn water, stuff the shoes with dry towels or paper towels to help draw out moisture from the inside.
Air-dry completely. Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or hair dryers. Let them dry naturally for 24–48 hours. Once dry, reinsert the insoles and laces.

Common Mistakes

Using hot water: Hot water can warp materials, weaken glue, and cause colors to bleed. Always use warm or cool water.
Soaking too long: Leaving shoes in water for more than 15 minutes can damage the structure and adhesives.
Scrubbing too hard: Aggressive scrubbing can scratch leather, damage suede, or fray fabric. Use a gentle touch and let the soap do the work.
Skipping the rinse: Leftover detergent can attract dirt and cause skin irritation. Rinse thoroughly.
Drying in direct sunlight or with heat: This can cause fading, cracking, and shrinkage. Always air-dry at room temperature.

Tips

For extra-stubborn stains on white canvas, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing.
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to get into the treads of the soles without scratching them.
If your shoes have a strong odor, add a cup of white vinegar to the bathwater (it neutralizes smells) or sprinkle baking soda inside them after drying.
Clean shoes regularly (every few weeks) to prevent dirt from setting in and to extend their life.
For leather shoes, apply a leather conditioner after they are completely dry to keep the material supple.

Troubleshooting

Shoes still look dirty after drying: Some stains may need a second treatment. Repeat the cleaning process, but this time apply a stain remover or baking soda paste directly to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing.
Shoes smell bad after drying: This usually means they weren’t dried completely. Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let them sit overnight, then shake out the powder. Ensure they are fully dry before wearing.
White shoes turned yellow: This can happen if they were dried in direct sunlight or if detergent wasn’t fully rinsed. Try re-rinsing them with cool water and drying them in a shaded, well-ventilated area. For stubborn yellowing, a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide (test on a small area first) can help.
Leather shoes got water spots: Let them dry completely, then gently buff with a soft cloth. You can also use a leather conditioner to even out the appearance.
Shoes are still wet after 48 hours: If they are still damp, they may have been too thick or the environment too humid. Move them to a drier, warmer (but not hot) spot with good airflow. You can also stuff them with dry towels to speed up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean all types of shoes in the bath?

Most fabric, canvas, and synthetic shoes are fine. Leather and suede require extra care—use a damp cloth and specialized cleaner instead of submerging them. Avoid cleaning shoes with delicate embellishments or electronics (like some smart shoes) in water.

How often should I clean my shoes in the bath?

It depends on how often you wear them and the conditions. For everyday sneakers, once a month is usually enough. If you wear them for sports or in muddy conditions, you may need to clean them more frequently.

Can I put my shoes in the washing machine instead?

Yes, but it’s riskier. The machine can be too rough and cause damage. If you do use a washer, place shoes in a mesh bag, use cold water, and a gentle cycle. Air-dry them afterward. Bath cleaning gives you more control and is gentler.

How do I dry shoes quickly without damaging them?

The best way is to air-dry them naturally. To speed up, stuff them with dry towels or paper towels to absorb moisture, and place them in front of a fan. Avoid direct heat sources like hair dryers or radiators, which can warp or crack the material.

Will cleaning shoes in the bath ruin the glue?

If you soak them for too long or use hot water, yes. Keep soaking time under 15 minutes and use warm or cool water. After cleaning, dry them thoroughly at room temperature to help preserve the adhesive.

Can I use bleach to whiten my shoes?

Bleach can damage fabrics and cause yellowing. It’s better to use a gentle oxygen-based cleaner or a baking soda paste. If you do use bleach, dilute it heavily and test on a small, hidden area first.

Sources: general know-how. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.