
How to Clean Sneakers Sustainably: The Complete Natural Shoes Guide
, by Christian Depropris, 3 min reading time

, by Christian Depropris, 3 min reading time
Discover how to wash your shoes in an eco-friendly and gentle way, saving water, avoiding waste, and extending the life of the materials
Excerpt:
Discover how to clean your sneakers sustainably and make them last longer. Natural Shoes’ tips to wash them gently, save water, and protect the environment.
Main Content:
Cleaning your sneakers is not just about appearance — it’s an act of care for what you wear and for the planet.
With a few mindful steps, you can make your favourite shoes last for years while avoiding waste, harsh washing and premature wear.
Here’s the Natural Shoes guide for an effective, gentle and eco-friendly cleaning routine.
Why sustainable cleaning makes a difference
Every wash has an environmental impact. Excessive water, harsh detergents and washing cycles waste energy and release microplastics.
Cleaning consciously means:
Reducing environmental impact by using less water, energy and chemicals.
Preserving materials, especially recycled, vegan or natural ones.
Extending the life of your sneakers, reducing the need for new purchases.
The 3 mistakes to avoid
Never machine wash: heat and spinning deform sneakers and damage glues.
Avoid direct heat: radiators or hairdryers dry out leather and yellow the soles.
Skip bleach: too aggressive, it ruins colours and fabrics.
Your essential eco cleaning kit
You don’t need expensive products — just a few natural essentials:
A soft-bristle brush (or an old toothbrush).
A microfibre and cotton cloth.
Marseille soap, baking soda, white vinegar, or lemon.
A bit of lukewarm water.
Step-by-step cleaning
1️⃣ Leather, vegan leather or innovative materials (Piñatex®, AppleSkin®)
Brush off dust and dirt.
Wash laces and insoles separately with mild soap.
Wipe the upper with a damp cloth and a drop of Marseille soap.
Dry well. For real leather, occasionally apply a neutral cream.
2️⃣ Canvas, organic cotton or hemp
Brush off dry dirt.
Make a paste with water and baking soda for stubborn stains.
Clean gently with mild soapy water.
Stuff with paper to keep shape and air dry.
3️⃣ White or recycled rubber soles
Scrub with soap and water.
Use a paste of baking soda and lemon for whitening.
For scuff marks, use a melamine sponge (“magic eraser”).
Daily care and storage
Light brushing after use keeps sneakers clean longer.
Apply an eco waterproof spray when new.
Rotate pairs to let them breathe.
Store in a dry, ventilated place away from sunlight.
💡 Natural Shoes tip: After a rainy day, let shoes dry naturally without direct heat.
Conclusion
Taking care of your sneakers is respect for your shoes — and for the planet.
With natural products and simple habits, your shoes will last longer, look better and reduce your footprint.
Natural Shoes promotes conscious fashion: choose, clean and reuse responsibly.
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