How To Wash Brooks Tennis Shoes – 3 Easy Ways

Washing your Brooks tennis shoes can help to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria, which can cause the shoes to smell and deteriorate.

There are a few different ways to wash Brooks tennis shoes. You can wash them by hand or in the washing machine. If you choose to wash them by hand, be sure to use a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the shoes.

Shoes looking their best require regular cleaning to maintain performance, extend lifespan, and preserve their overall appearance. Here we’ll learn how to wash Brooks tennis shoes in detail.

How To Wash Brooks Tennis Shoes – 3 Simple Methods

There are three easy methods to clean and dry Brooks running shoes:

Method 1: Wash Shoes by hand

  1. Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes.
  2. Fill a sink or basin with warm water and a mild detergent.
  3. Submerge the shoes in the water and gently scrub them starting with the uppers with your hands.
  4. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water.
  5. Remove the shoes from the water and let them air dry completely.

Method 2: Washing shoes in the washing machine

  1. Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag.
  2. Add the shoes to the washer and set it to a delicate cycle.
  3. Use cold water and mild laundry soap.
  4. Wash the shoes according to the instructions on the washing machine.
  5. Remove the shoes from the washing machine and let them air dry completely.

Method 3: Spot cleaning

  1. If your shoes have only minor dirt or stains, you can spot-clean them with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
  2. Stuff your shoes with newspaper so that they absorb water. Apply the washing powder to the cloth or soft brush and gently rub the stain until it is removed.
  3. Rinse the area with clean water and let it air dry completely. Do not use a hair dryer, as the heat can warp the shoes.

Tips for cleaning Running Shoes in the Washing Machine

  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the shoes.
  • If your shoes have any removable parts, such as a tongue or heel cup, remove those before washing.
  • Be sure to rinse the shoes thoroughly after washing.
  • Allow the shoes to naturally dry completely before wearing them again.

Tips for drying Brooks shoes

  • Do not put your Brooks shoes in the dryer. The heat can damage the shoes and reduce their lifespan.
  • Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area to naturally dry completely.
  • You can also use a shoe dryer to help the shoes dry faster.

How To Get Rid Of Bad Odor From Shoes?

Here are the steps to get rid of bad odor from shoes:

Air Them Out

  • Remove the insoles (if possible) and place your shoes in a well-ventilated area.
  • Allowing them to air out helps reduce moisture and odor.

Baking Soda Magic

  • Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda inside your shoes.
  • Leave the baking soda in your shoes overnight.
  • It absorbs odors effectively.
  • Shake out any excess baking soda before wearing your shoes again.

Cedar Shoe Inserts

  • Consider using cedar shoe inserts.
  • Cedar not only absorbs moisture but also imparts a pleasant scent to your shoes.

Freeze Them

  • Seal your shoes in a plastic bag.
  • Place the bag in your freezer overnight.
  • The cold temperature kills odor-causing bacteria.

These simple steps should help you kick bad odors to the curb and enjoy fresh-smelling shoes again!

Reassembling The Shoes

Once you’ve successfully cleaned your tennis shoes, it’s time to reassemble them so they’re ready for your next match or workout. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Drying Confirmation

  • Before you begin reassembly, double-check that your shoes are completely dry. 
  • Moisture trapped inside the shoes can lead to odor and even mold growth. 
  • If necessary, allow them to air dry for a little longer.

2. Reinserting Insoles

  • Take the clean, dry insoles that you removed earlier.
  • Align them carefully with the inside of each shoe, making sure they fit snugly.
  • Press down gently to ensure they are flat and secure.

3. Lacing Your Shoes

  • If you removed the ties, now is the time to put them back in.
  • Start by threading one lace through the bottom eyelets, ensuring both ends are even.
  • Continue lacing up, making sure the tension is even on both sides.
  • Tie a secure knot at the top. You can choose the shoe tie style that suits your comfort and support needs.

4. Testing the Fit

  • Before fully tightening the laces, try on the shoes to check the fit.
  • Adjust the ties as needed to achieve the desired snugness. Remember that proper fit is essential for comfort and performance.

5. Tucking in the Laces

  • After confirming the fit, you can tuck in any excess lace inside the shoe to prevent tripping or snagging during your activities.

6. Final Inspection

  • Take a moment to inspect your shoes for any missed spots during cleaning.
  • Use a damp cloth to wipe off any remaining detergent residue or stains if necessary.

7. Storage

  • Once your shoes are reassembled and cleaned, it’s important to store them properly.
  • Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Avoid stacking heavy items on top of them, as this can cause deformation.

Your restored shoes will be ready to support you in your athletic endeavors for many more matches to come.

Maintenance Tips

Here are some maintenance tips for your tennis shoes without repetition:

Frequent Cleaning

Develop a routine of cleaning your tennis shoes after every use to prevent dirt and stains from accumulating.

Aerate After Use

Allow your shoes to breathe post-game or workout by removing them and taking out the insoles, promoting proper ventilation.

Rotate Your Pairs

Extend shoe lifespan by switching between multiple pairs, ensuring they have time to dry out completely between wear.

Store Wisely

Keep your tennis shoes in a cool, dry spot, away from direct sunlight, and steer clear of humid or excessively hot environments.

Consider Insoles

Enhance comfort and shoe durability with supportive insoles or inserts that match your foot type.

Replace Worn Insoles

Swap out insoles when they lose their cushioning and support to maintain foot health.

Combat Odors

Keep your shoes smelling fresh by using products like deodorizers or cedar inserts designed to eliminate unwanted odors.

Avoid Machine Washing

Steer clear of machine washing, as it can harm your shoes; instead, opt for gentle hand cleaning.

Shield from Moisture

Protect against wet conditions by using waterproof sprays or covers during play.

Regular Inspections

Routinely examine your tennis shoes for wear and tear, addressing any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

By following these maintenance guidelines, you’ll extend the life of your tennis shoes while ensuring their continued comfort and support.

Conclusion

In summary, taking care of your Brooks tennis shoes is straightforward with these cleaning steps. Avoid using a washer or dryer, as these methods may affect the shoes’ longevity. Keeping them clean not only enhances their appearance but also extends their lifespan, ensuring continued comfort and performance during your matches and workouts. Regular maintenance will make your tennis shoes reliable companions on the court.

FAQs

Can Brooks shoes get wet?

These shoes can get wet, but it’s advisable to avoid excessive moisture exposure as it can affect their durability and performance.

How long do Brooks sneakers last?

The lifespan of these sneakers can vary depending on factors like usage, terrain, and care. On average, they can last between 300 to 500 miles of running or 4-6 months for regular wear.

Are Brooks high-quality shoes? 

Yes, this is generally considered a high-quality shoe brand known for its focus on running and athletic footwear.

Is Brooks more expensive than Nike? 

Brooks and Nike often have similar price ranges for their athletic shoes, but specific prices can vary depending on the model and features.

Is Brooks owned by Nike? 

No, this is not owned by Nike. They are separate companies that produce their lines of athletic footwear.

Why is the tread separating from the sole of my shoe?

The tread separating from the sole of your shoe could be due to adhesive failure, poor manufacturing, or prolonged wear and tear.

Are Brooks shoes slip resistant?

To determine if a specific pair of Brooks shoes is slip-resistant, it’s recommended to check the product description or labels, as different models may have different features.