Keeping your On Running shoes clean is important for both hygiene and performance. Dirt, sweat, and grime can not only make your shoes smelly and unpleasant to wear, but they can also affect the function and lifespan of your shoes.
To properly clean your shoes, you will need the following supplies:
- Soft-bristled brush
- Mild soap (dish soap or laundry detergent)
- A Bowl
- Clean cloths or paper towels
- Old socks or newspaper (for stuffing while drying)
With these simple cleaning tools on hand, you can thoroughly clean your On Running shoes with these 6 easy steps:
Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles
Start by removing the laces and insoles from your shoes. This allows you to clean the tongue area more effectively.
To remove the laces, simply unlace them completely and pull them out of the eyelets.
For the insoles, carefully peel them out of the interior. You may need to use your fingers to gently pry them loose if they are stuck.
Set the laces and insoles aside until it’s time to put them back in.
Step 2: Rinse With Water
Before scrubbing your shoes, you’ll want to rinse them with water to remove any initial dirt or debris. You can do this by holding them under running water in your sink for a minute or two.
Rotate the shoes and focus the water on dirty areas to help dislodge mud or caked-on gunk.
This preparatory rinse will make the scrubbing step more effective.
Step 3: Make a Cleaning Solution
To scrub your On Running shoes, you’ll need to make a cleaning solution. The best cleaning solution for On shoes is a mild mix of warm water and gentle soap.
Avoid using hot water, as this can damage the materials. Also, stay away from harsh detergents or chemical cleaners.
Add a small amount of mild soap like dish soap or laundry detergent to a bowl of warm water. Only a small cap-full is needed – you don’t need a lot of suds.
Use a soft-bristled brush and dip it in the soap solution. Soft bristles are important, as stiff bristles can damage the mesh or knit fabrics.
You can find shoe brushes made specifically for sneaker cleaning that works perfectly.
Step 4: Scrub the Shoes
With your cleaning solution ready, start scrubbing the On Running shoes. Apply the soapy brush to all exterior surfaces of the shoes using small, circular scrubbing motions.
Focus on the dirtiest areas first. The sides of the soles, toe cap, and lace eyelets often need extra scrubbing.
Make sure to scrub the mesh upper area thoroughly. Dirt and grime can really accumulate here.
As you scrub, re-dip the brush in the soapy water to reapply the cleaning solution. If needed, you can gently wipe away stubborn spots with a clean soft cloth.
Take your time and be thorough. Scrub the entire exterior surface – top and bottom – to lift away all built-up dirt and stains.
Step 5: Rinse Again
Once you’ve scrubbed the entirety of both shoes, rinse them again with clean water. You can hold them under running water in the sink again.
Rotate and turn them, rinsing all areas to wash away the soap and lift off the dirty residue from scrubbing.
Rinse them until the water runs clear. Shake off excess water and gently blot with a paper towel or clean rag.
Inspect closely to ensure no dirt or soap remains. Rinse again if needed.
Step 6: Air Dry
After thorough rinsing, allow your On Running shoes to fully air dry before wearing them again.
Stuff some balled-up paper towels or crumpled newspaper inside the shoes to help them hold their shape as they dry. You can also use rolled socks.
Set the shoes in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
You may place shoes on a porch or deck. You can also set them in front of a fan to speed up drying.
Do not put your On shoes into a clothes dryer! High heat can damage the shoes.
Allow 1-2 days for drying time depending on humidity. The shoes are ready to wear when completely dry inside and out.
Once dry, replace the clean laces and insoles. Your shoes are ready for many more miles!
Extra On Running Shoe Cleaning Tips
- For super dirty shoes, allow them to soak in your cleaning solution for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing.
- Use an old toothbrush to get into small crevices and tight spots.
- Try a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution for disinfecting and deodorizing.
- Allow shoes to fully air dry between wears to prevent bacteria growth.
- Wash laces and insoles separately in gentle soap and water.
- Replace insoles every 300-500 miles as cushioning breaks down.
- Wash dirty socks and exercise clothes after each wear to minimize shoe grime.
- Apply water protection spray after cleaning for added stain resistance.
- Consider getting two pairs of On shoes and rotating them to maximize lifespan.
- Bring an extra pair of clean socks when exercising to manage sweat.
Things you should not do when cleaning On Cloud shoes:
- Do not put On Cloud shoes in the washing machine. The high-pressure water and detergent can damage the shoes.
- Do not put On Cloud shoes in the dryer. The heat can damage the materials.
- Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals to clean On Cloud shoes.
- Do not use stiff-bristled brushes or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the fabric.
- Do not soak the shoes for long periods, as this can cause the adhesives to break down.
Final Verdict:
Keeping your On Cloud running shoes clean is easy when you follow this simple 6-step method. By using mild soap, soft brushes, and proper drying techniques, you can keep your shoes looking fresh and performing at their best.
With just a few affordable supplies and regular cleaning, your On Cloud shoes can log mile after mile in comfort and style. Proper shoe hygiene also helps prevent foot odor and bacterial buildup.
Follow these tips and enjoy many seasons of high-performance running in your On Cloud sneakers!
