How to Clean Basketball Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your basketball shoes clean extends their lifespan and improves their performance. With clean basketball shoes, you reduce the risk of material breakdown, which reduces durability. You also get a better grip on the court, reducing the risk of slips and injuries.

In this guide, we show you how to clean basketball shoes step by step. Show your dedication to the sport with polished, professional-looking basketball shoes.

1. Gather Materials for Washing Shoes

Before cleaning basketball shoes, it’s important to gather the necessary materials first. Having everything ready makes the cleaning process more efficient. It also makes sure you are not missing crucial steps. Here are the things you need:

• Clean cloths: Multiple cloths for cleaning, drying, and wiping

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• Mild detergent: For cleaning different parts of the basketball shoes

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• Small bucket: For soaking laces and insoles

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• Soft-bristled brush: For scrubbing debris, dirt, and stains

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• Warm water: For mixing with the mild detergent and washing

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• Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda (optional): For cleaning and brightening the upper parts of the basketball shoes

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• Non-gel Toothpaste (optional): For cleaning and whitening white soles

2. Clear Out the Outsole of Dirt and Debris

The outsole is the bottom part of your basketball shoes. It comes into direct contact with the ground, providing stability and traction. When cleaning basketball shoes, it’s important to start with the outsole because it tends to collect the most dirt and dust. By cleaning the outsole first, you prevent transferring loose dirt and debris to the upper sections during the cleaning process.

Dampen your clean cloth with warm water and mild detergent. Use it to remove dirt and debris from the outsole gently. Pay special attention to the grooves where dirt often hides. Use the soft-bristled brush to access the hard-to-reach parts of the grooves. Make sure to scrub off all filth thoroughly.

Using Toothpaste for White-Soled Basketball Shoes

If you have white-soled basketball shoes, you can apply toothpaste to the outsoles. Toothpaste helps restore the bright and clean appearance of your outsoles. Their cleaning agents also help break down surface dirt.

Use non-gel white toothpaste only. Other kinds of toothpaste, especially those with colors and gels, can cause stains. Squeeze a small amount of non-gel white toothpaste on your soft-bristled brush. Scrub the outsoles in a circular motion, ensuring all outsole parts are covered.

Let the toothpaste sit for about 10 minutes before wiping it off with your damp cloth.

3. Wipe the Upper Part of the Basketball Shoes

After cleaning the outsole, it’s time to clean the upper part of your basketball shoes, including the sides, toe box, and other exposed surfaces. Use a damp cloth to wipe the entire shoe gently. If the one you used in the outsole is too dirty, you can use a new, clean cloth. Just make sure you are using warm water and mild detergent.

Use a soft brush to remove surface debris and stubborn stains. You usually see these on the tongue, the part of the basketball shoes covered by laces, and the toe box, which gets scuffed by other players.

Applying Hydrogen Peroxide to White Shoes

You can use hydrogen peroxide to clean and brighten the upper parts of your white basketball shoes. But you should make sure that your basketball shoes are made of materials that can withstand gentle bleaching. If you are not sure, consult the manufacturer or do a small spot test to ensure the cleaning solution doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

Combine ½ tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste all over your white basketball shoes. Gently scrub the paste in a circular motion, giving more attention to heavily stained parts.

Let the cleaning solution sit for 10 to 15 minutes before wiping it off with your damp cloth. Make sure there is no residue that can cause bleaching.

4. Clean the Laces and Insoles

Remove the laces and insoles of your basketball shoes. The insoles are the removable parts that sit directly beneath your feet, providing comfort, cushioning, and support. You can clean the laces and insoles by hand or in the washing machine. If you are cleaning them with a washing machine, make sure you are using the cold and delicate settings. Consider putting the insoles in a mesh laundry bag.

To wash the laces and insoles by hand, fill the small bucket with warm water and mild detergent. Dunk the laces and insoles into the bucket and agitate the soapy water with your hands. This removes excess dirt and debris.

While they are submerged, you can use your soft-bristled brush to get rid of stubborn stains.

5. Dry Your Clean Basketball Shoes

Proper drying is a crucial part of the cleaning process. When basketball shoes are not dried properly, there can be excess moisture that can lead to bacteria buildup and mold and mildew growth. Improper drying techniques, such as using high-heat sources, can cause material damage. This results in less grip, poor fit, and an overall reduction in performance.

After cleaning your basketball shoes, gently shake off any excess water. You can use a dry, soft cloth to pat down the exterior and interior. Place your basketball shoes in a well-ventilated area, avoiding high-heat sources such as direct sunlight and radiators. If you want to speed up the drying process, use a fan to evaporate excess moisture without heat exposure.

Make sure your basketball shoes are completely dry before putting them on.