Keeping those Adidas kicks fresh is vital for any runner. But cleaning fabric and foam shoes takes some finesse so you don’t damage them.
This easy 6-step guide breaks down how to clean Adidas running shoes safely using supplies you likely already have at home.
In order to clean effectively you’ll need the following:
- Gentle liquid detergent
- Soft-bristle brush
- Toothbrush for scrubbing
- Shallow basin
- Cool water
- Clean rags or paper towels
- Crumpled newspaper or shoe trees
Step 1: Laces Out, Insoles Out
Start the cleaning process by fully unlacing your Adidas shoes and gently pulling the laces out one by one through each eyelet.
Carefully loosen and remove the insoles as well, starting at the heel and peeling towards the toe.
The insoles can be a hotspot for dirt, debris, and sweat buildup from wear, so it’s essential to take them out prior to washing.
Removing the laces and insoles gives you unrestricted access to all exterior and interior surfaces to thoroughly clean every nook and cranny.
Step 2: Sweep Away Loose Grit
Before getting the shoes wet for washing, use the soft-bristle brush to gently sweep away any dried clumps of mud or dirt adhered to the soles, bottoms, and sides of the shoes.
Be sure to brush debris from tread grooves and small spaces where grit can collect. Getting this loose buildup off ahead of time stops the particles from getting pushed deeper into the shoe material once the washing starts.
Quickly sweeping or brushing away this loose dirt saves your cleaning brush bristles from getting loaded up too fast as well.
Step 3: Mix Gentle Cleaning Solution
Fill the shallow basin with cool water, avoiding hot temperatures that may potentially cause damage to the shoes.
Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent to the water – about 1-2 teaspoons is plenty. Using a gentle detergent avoids stripping away shoe coatings over time.
Swirl the soft brush around to dissolve and mix the detergent into the water. Minimal sudsing is best to prevent leaving soapy film residue on the shoes after cleaning.
Step 4: Clean Uppers and Mesh Areas
With the gentle detergent solution made, dip the soft-bristle brush into the basin of water and detergent.
Lightly scrub the upper area of the shoes, concentrating cleaning on the fabric components and mesh panels. These zones on the uppers tend to accumulate significant dirt, grime, and sweat stains from wear.
Gently scrub using circular motions to lift debris and discoloration, rinsing and re-dipping the brush as needed. For particularly dirty spots or set-in stains, use the old toothbrush for extra scrubbing power on localized areas.
Carefully spot-scrub any eyelets, logos, or printed sections, avoiding excessive scouring which can cause damage over time.
Step 5: Wash Soles and Sides
In addition to the uppers, use the soft brush dampened with the cleaning solution to gently scrub the soles, treads, and sides of the Adidas shoes.
Carefully work the brush over the entire exterior bottom, getting into all sole grooves and crevices where compacted dirt loves to hide.
Make sure to scrub both lateral sides as well as the heel and toe edges, rotating the shoes as needed to access all surfaces.
Rinse and re-dip the brush into the detergent solution periodically to keep it active and effective as you clean.
Step 6: Rinse Away Residue
Once the shoes are fully scrubbed all over, thoroughly rinse them with cool running water to remove any remaining debris, soap residue, or suds. Rinsing removes all remnants of dirt and detergent.
Run water over the entire exterior until it flows clear. Lightly blot the shoes with a clean rag to soak up dripping water. Be careful not to twist or wring.
Stuff the damp interior cavities tightly with crumpled newspaper or shoe trees to hold the original shape as the shoes air dry.
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Adidas Running Shoes:
- Don’t machine wash or dry them
- Don’t use hot water
- Don’t let them soak too long
- Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals
- Don’t use stiff-bristled brushes
- Don’t place near direct heat
- Don’t ignore mesh areas
- Don’t wash inserts or laces in the machine
Final Verdict
By following these simple steps and avoiding potentially damaging cleaning methods, you can safely clean your Adidas running shoes at home and make them last.
Keeping your Adidas kicks fresh and odor-free maintains comfort and performance. Regular cleaning removes grime before it builds up and leads to deterioration. Your shoes will bounce back feeling like new again!
