Summer adventures can get messy, of course, in the best possible way. Whether it’s going for a muddy hike, getting stuck in a storm while camping, or just an afternoon of running in the park, your shoes are going to have some fun. And honestly, we love that. Our shoes are built for movement, and a little mess means they're doing their job.
But the flip side is that dirt, sweat, and regular wear can add up quickly. With no care, all that added mess can wear down materials and take time off a pair of shoes. Cleaning shoes is about more than looks. It's also about getting your shoes ready for the next adventure.
While we design our shoes to take anything you kids can throw at them, they still deserve a bit of care. A small clean-up routine makes a big difference in keeping shoes looking cool, functioning properly, and camp-ready all summer. Don’t you worry, we know exactly how to get started.
How to Clean Shoes Like a Pro: The Basics You Should Know
You don’t need a shelf full of fancy products, just a few easy techniques. Whether you're cleaning up after a muddy hike or prepping for next week's outings, these basic steps will help extend the life of your shoes and keep them looking great.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
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Start with the prep:
Remove the insoles or liners and untie the laces.
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Dry brush first:
Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to gently remove dry mud, sand, and debris. This saves time and prevents a mess when the shoes get wet.
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Mix a mild cleaner:
In a small bowl, combine cold water with a gentle, biodegradable detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals.
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Spot clean carefully:
Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the uppers and soles—never soak the shoes in the solution.
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Air dry only:
Let them dry naturally, away from direct sun or heat sources.
No machine dryers as they can shrink or warp the shoes.
Gentle cleaning = longer life, better performance, and more adventures ahead. Simple is smart when it comes to shoe care.
Are Splay Shoes Machine Washable?
This is a question we see often, and we totally understand why. Machine washing shoes is so easy and seems so tempting! Yes, you can machine wash them, but you should keep some things in mind.
- Remove the insoles and laces before washing.
- Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag to prevent damage during the cycle.
- Use cold water and select a gentle cycle for best results.
- Skip the spin cycle if possible to reduce stress on the shoe structure.
And here is an important rule: Do not use the dryer to dry your shoes.
High heat will ruin the pristine shape and materials. Let your shoes air dry naturally, and ensure they are not in direct sunlight. Although if you do have the time, hand washing is still our best recommendation for prolonging your favourite summer kicks.
A little extra effort goes a long way in keeping your shoes ready for your next adventure!
Don’t Forget the Details: Laces, Insoles & Odor Control
When it comes to rejuvenating your shoes, the little things make all the difference. Most shoe cleaning tips talk about the outside, but we can’t ignore the inside.
Let’s start with the laces. Similar to the soles, they are greatly exposed to all the dust and debris. Toss them in a bowl of warm, soapy water and let them soak for a while. If they are too far gone? No one’s going to judge you—just buy another pair and give your shoes that fresh look.
What about the insoles? Grab that damp cloth and a mild detergent, spot clean them, and air dry them completely before putting them back in place!
Fresh insoles = Fresh feet.
What about eliminating smells? You can always add a sprinkling of baking soda in the shoes and leave them overnight. Or add a drop or two of tea tree oil for a light, clean smell. Although not advised, sunlight does its magic well in killing the bacteria and deodorizing.
Summer Storage Tips to Prevent Funk and Flattening
After a long day of all sorts of energetic activities, your shoes need as much rest as you do. Proper shoe storage is about more than just storage efficiency; it's also about keeping them fresh, functional, and ready for the next adventure.
The number one way to store footwear after a day on the run is to always store it somewhere dry and shaded. Exposing shoes to the bright sun can cause fading and damage to new materials, while storing shoes in damp areas (e.g. basements, muddy or wet boot packs) can create lingering odours and the initial stages of mold growth.
To maintain the shape of shoes during storage, try stuffing the toe box of the shoes with rolled-up socks, or cedar shoe inserts (these also control odour). Avoid throwing shoes into the hot trunk of your car. Don't stuff your shoes under piles, as the heat and pressure can ruin those sweet footbeds.
Keep Your Splay Shoes Adventure-Ready All Season
Shoe cleaning isn’t complicated; it just takes a little bit of extra care. Cleaning regularly can avoid the stubborn mud, dirt, sweat, or nasty grime from building up, which helps prolong the lifespan of your shoes and makes them feel fresh!
Are you ready for some new shoes? Check out our REV, which are easy to clean, the classic 101, or our complete Kids Collection.
