How to Clean Tennis Shoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Regular cleaning not only makes your tennis shoes look better but also prevents odor and material breakdown. You don’t need fancy products—most items are already in your home. Here’s a practical method that works for canvas, mesh, and synthetic uppers. Avoid machine washing unless the label says it’s safe, as it can damage glue and shape.

What You’ll Need

Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works)
Mild laundry detergent or dish soap
Warm water
Clean cloth or sponge
Baking soda (for odors)
White vinegar (optional, for tough stains)
Paper towels or clean towels for drying

Step-by-Step

Remove laces and insoles. Take out the shoelaces and any removable insoles. This lets you clean every part and prevents water from getting trapped inside.
Brush off loose dirt. Use a soft brush or dry cloth to knock off mud, dust, and debris from the entire shoe. Pay attention to the tread and sides.
Rinse with cold water. Hold the shoes under a gentle stream of cold water to wet the surface. Avoid hot water, which can warp materials and weaken glue.
Make a soapy solution. Mix a few drops of mild detergent or dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Stir until suds form.
Scrub the uppers. Dip the brush or sponge into the soapy water and scrub the shoes in circular motions. Focus on stained areas and the toe box. Don’t soak the shoes—just dampen them.
Clean the soles. Use the brush with soapy water to scrub the rubber soles, especially the grooves where dirt collects. For stubborn marks, apply a paste of baking soda and water and scrub gently.
Rinse and wipe. Rinse the shoes with cold water to remove soap residue. Wipe with a clean damp cloth to catch any remaining suds.
Dry properly. Stuff the shoes with paper towels or clean towels to help them hold shape and absorb moisture. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Let them air-dry completely—this can take 12–24 hours. Once dry, reinsert the insoles and laces.

Common Mistakes

Machine washing without checking the label—this can ruin the shoe’s structure.
Using bleach or harsh chemicals—they discolor and weaken materials.
Drying on a radiator or in the dryer—heat melts glue and shrinks fabric.
Leaving laces and insoles in—they don’t get clean and can trap water.
Scrubbing too hard on mesh—it can tear or stretch.

Tips

Clean your shoes regularly, not just when they look dirty, to prevent buildup.
Use a toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas like the toe cap and lace holes.
For white soles, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders—apply, let sit 15 minutes, then scrub.
To remove odors, sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let sit overnight before shaking out.
If your shoes are leather or suede, use products specifically for those materials—water and soap can damage them.
Always air-dry thoroughly before wearing to prevent mildew and odor.

Troubleshooting

Stains remain after cleaning. For tough stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to the stain, and let sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing again. For oil-based stains, use a drop of dish soap directly on the spot and work it in with a brush.

Shoes smell after drying. This usually means they weren’t fully dry or bacteria remain. Sprinkle baking soda inside and let sit overnight, then shake out. If the smell persists, wipe the inside with a cloth dampened with white vinegar and let air-dry.

Shoes feel stiff after cleaning. You may have used too much soap or dried them too quickly. Rinse them again with water and air-dry slowly. To soften, gently flex the shoes while damp.

White soles are yellowed. This can happen from sun exposure or aging. Try a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide (test on a small area first), apply, and let sit in indirect sunlight for a few hours, then rinse.

Laces are still dirty. Soak laces in warm soapy water for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse. For stubborn stains, use a little bleach diluted in water (for white laces only).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put tennis shoes in the washing machine?

Yes, but only if the care label says it’s safe. Use a gentle cycle with cold water, place shoes in a pillowcase or mesh bag, and air-dry afterward. Never use a dryer.

How often should I clean my tennis shoes?

It depends on use. If you wear them daily, clean them every 2–4 weeks. For occasional wear, a monthly cleaning is enough. Always spot-clean spills immediately.

How do I get rid of bad odor in tennis shoes?

Sprinkle baking soda inside and let sit overnight, then shake out. You can also wipe the inside with a cloth dampened with white vinegar and let air-dry. Wearing moisture-wicking socks helps prevent odor.

Can I use bleach on white tennis shoes?

Bleach can be used on white cotton or canvas shoes, but it may yellow or weaken synthetic materials. Always dilute it (1 part bleach to 5 parts water) and test on a small area first. Avoid bleach on colored shoes.

How do I remove grass stains from tennis shoes?

Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to the stain, and let sit for 15 minutes. Scrub with a brush, then rinse. For stubborn grass stains, use a little white vinegar before scrubbing.

Can I dry tennis shoes in the sun?

Indirect sunlight is fine, but direct sun can fade colors and dry out materials. It’s better to dry them in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

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