Do you have native shoes but are unsure about how to clean and care for them? As a shoe owner, keeping your native shoes looking better and fresher is necessary. It can not only give a fresh look but also your shoes offer lightweight comfort and last long.
In this article, we will delve into step by step guide on how to clean native shoes so that they look best not for months but for years. Whether you are a new native shoe owner or are experienced, these steps will surely make the cleaning process effective.
Supplies needed
- Soft bristle brush for the removal of dirt and dust
- Mild detergent for cleaning of delicate materials
- Water and vinegar solution for the removal of tough stains
- Soft cloth for the application of the solution on the shoes
- Clean towel for drying the shoes after cleaning
- Waterproof spray for the protection of shoe from stains
4 steps to clean Native shoes
By following these 4 steps, you can keep your native shoes looking clean, fresh, and new and long lasting for many years:
Step 1: Removal of Dirt and debris:
Take out the insoles and laces of the shoes then start removing dust and debris from the shoe’s surface and interior using a soft bristle brush.
Step 2: Preparation of the solution:
Take a container and fill it with lukewarm water and then add a small amount of mild detergent. Ensure to use mild soap to avoid abrasion and damage to the shoes.
Step 3: Scrubbing of the shoes:
Take a soft cloth or a sponge and dip it into the soapy solution. After that gently scrub all the stains on the shoes but pay more attention to areas that are more dirty and stained.
Step 4: Rinsing and drying of the shoes:
Thoroughly rinse the shoes and remove all residues of the detergent solution. Otherwise, residues may discolor and damage your shoes with time.
In the end, keep the shoes in the air for complete drying but ensure to place away from the direct sunlight as it may damage the shoe’s materials. Also avoid heat sources because these may warp or shrink the shoes.
Things to look for when cleaning Native shoes
Now let’s have a look at some tips or tricks that you must consider in while cleaning your native shoes:
Inspect shoe materials
Not all shoe materials are the same so pay attention to the materials of your native shoes. Synthetic and rubber materials need vigorous scrubbing and cleaning while knit and mesh require smooth and gentle cleaning.
Check the severity of the dirt
More mudded shoes require more cleaning and scrubbing as well as more attention for the removal of all stains as compared to low-mudded shoes.
Watch for color transfer
Ensure to check if your wet native shoes are shedding color on the cleaning towel or other supplies required during the cleaning process.
Air dry fully
To avoid mold and bacterial growth, ensure to air dry your native shoes fully in a dry and ventilated place instead of direct sunlight.
What not to do when cleaning Native shoes
As you have to consider some tips and tricks for the cleaning of native shoes but never forget to avoid some things like:
Machine washing
It may damage your native shoes because more agitation and vigorous scrubbing are harmful to shoe materials.
Bleach or harsh chemicals
Never use harsh chemicals or bleach while cleaning because these may affect the shine and color of the shoes.
Direct sunlight
Keeping your native shoes in direct sunlight or other heat sources may damage the shoe’s material.
Soaking
Never soak your shoes in the cleaning solution while ensure to use a soft brush to apply the solution on the surface and interior.
Conclusion
Now you have an idea of how to clean or wash your native shoes. It means you are ready to make your native shoes look good and increase their lifespan. Follow all the above mentioned cleaning steps as well as some tricks for the better cleaning so you will get the new and fresher shoes in no time.