An old toothbrush works great for scrubbing the rubber parts of the shoe. [2] X Expert Source Penny SimmonsShoe Care Specialist Expert Interview. 19 November 2020. If you have wet mud on your running shoes, you can either rinse it off with water beforehand or wait until it dries so it’s easier to brush off.

If your shoelaces have stubborn stains, soak them in a bowl of warm water with oxygen bleach stain remover before you scrub them.

Focus on cleaning near the toes and heels since that’s where stains and odors are the most noticeable.

If there are scuffs on the soles, try rubbing them with a melamine sponge.

Run your finger over your shoes occasionally while you’re rinsing them. If you feel any suds or soapy film, keep wetting your shoes with the sponge.

Newspaper ink could leave stains or marks on white shoes. Use a microfiber towel inside white shoes instead.

Avoid putting your shoes in your dryer or out in the sun since the heat could break down glue or foam in them.

Running shoes made from materials like cotton, nylon, or polyester are usually safe in your washer. If you have expensive running shoes or aren’t sure that they’re machine-safe, err on the side of caution and hand-wash them instead.

If you have gel or custom insoles that aren’t made of fabric, wash them with soapy water by hand instead of putting them in your machine.

Avoid using warm or hot water since it could damage the glue holding the soles of your running shoes to the fabric.

If the label on your shoes says they’re dryer-safe, then it’s okay to put them in the dryer on the lowest setting. [19] X Expert Source Marc SigalShoe Care Specialist Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.