Stains on your Under Armour shoes slowing you down? Here’s a simple, safe cleaning routine. Keep them looking sharp without harsh chemicals.
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Start by removing laces and insoles. Gently wipe the exterior to loosen dirt with a soft brush. Mix mild detergent with cold water and test on a hidden area.
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If you decide to machine wash, place the shoes in a mesh bag and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a small amount of detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softener. Let the washing machine do the work, but never overload.
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Air dry away from direct sun or heat sources. Stuff them with paper towels to maintain shape and absorb moisture. Do not put Under Armour shoes in a dryer.
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For stubborn stains, repeat the gentle cleaning steps and avoid scrubbing too hard. Regular cleaning extends the life of your shoes. Want faster results? A dedicated shoe cleaning kit can help.
Preparation and Assessment
Know Your Materials and Construction
Under Armour shoes come in a range of materials, from breathable mesh uppers to knit fabrics, with synthetic overlays, foam midsoles, and sometimes leather accents. Each material responds differently to moisture, detergents, and abrasion. Understanding what your specific pair is made of helps you choose the cleaning approach that preserves both color and structural integrity. If you’re unsure, check the shoe label or product page for material details and care guidance.
Before you start cleaning, inspect the upper for fabric type, a glued-on leather detail, or stitched panels. The outsole can be rubber or synthetic with a lug pattern that traps dirt. Knowing these elements helps you tailor your method: mesh and knit demand gentleness to avoid pilling, while leather or faux leather versions benefit from controls on moisture and conditioning after cleaning. This upfront assessment reduces the risk of unintentional damage during cleaning and sets the stage for a durable result.
Inspect for Wear, Odor, and Damage
Take a close look at the outsole for worn tread, detached treads, or loose stitching. If the sole is visibly compromised or if the midsole compresses unevenly, heavy cleaning may worsen structural issues, so you may want to limit moisture exposure or replace the shoes. Cleaning should enhance appearance, not mask deep wear or mechanical flaws.
Odor is a common issue, especially in gym shoes. Check for mildew, persistent sour smells, or sweat stains that could indicate moisture has held in folds. If you detect mildew, treat promptly with a mild cleaning routine and consider replacing odor-prone inserts or insoles. A thorough inspection now saves time and helps you decide if a deeper clean is appropriate or if restoration is unlikely.
Cleaning Foundations and Principles
When to Machine Wash vs Hand Wash
Machine washing can be convenient, but it isn’t universally safe for all Under Armour models. If the label explicitly says machine washable, you can proceed with precautions: place shoes in a pillowcase or mesh bag, remove laces and insoles, and use a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners or bleach, which can degrade fabrics and adhesives over time.
Hand washing remains the safer default for most athletic shoes, especially those with delicate mesh, knit, or leather trims. Hand washing provides precise control over agitation, exposure time, and rinse steps. It also minimizes the risk of water seeping into the tongue area, eyelets, or inside the shoe where odors and stiffness can develop. If you’re unsure about the machine wash option, opt for hand cleaning and preserve shoe longevity.
Balancing Cleanliness with Shoe Longevity
Preserving colorfastness and material integrity is central to any cleaning plan. Use cold or lukewarm water rather than hot water, which can weaken glues and cause color bleeding. Always test a small, inconspicuous area with your chosen cleaner to ensure there’s no adverse reaction before cleaning the entire surface.
Limit the amount of time the shoe spends fully submerged, especially if it has a leather or synthetic overlay. Prolonged soaking can weaken adhesives and cause warping. Instead, apply a damp cloth or brush with a mild solution, then rinse and wipe thoroughly. By balancing cleaning strength with material sensitivity, you extend the life of your Under Armour shoes and keep them looking fresh longer.
Materials Specifics: Mesh, Leather, and Synthetics
Mesh and Fabric Uppers Care
Mesh and knit uppers are prized for breathability but can absorb stains and odors quickly. Start by removing loose dirt with a soft brush and then applying a gentle cleaning solution made from mild detergent and water. Gently work the solution into the fabric using circular motions and a soft-bristled brush, rather than scrubbing aggressively, to avoid snagging fibers.
Rinse by dabbing with a damp cloth to remove soap, then repeat if necessary. After cleaning, reshape the toe box and side panels and allow the shoes to air-dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat, which can shrink or warp fabric and fade colors. For persistent stains, a targeted spot treatment with a soft brush usually suffices without saturating the material.
Leather and Synthetic Accents Care
Leather and faux leather details require moisture control and conditioning. Wipe with a slightly damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap if the area is dirty, then dry with a clean towel. Do not soak leather components; moisture can loosen seams and degrade finish. If the leather looks dry or cracked, consider applying a leather conditioner after it dries completely, following the product’s instructions.
Synthetic overlays should be treated with the same care as mesh but may tolerate a bit more scrubbing pressure. Use a soft brush and a diluted detergent solution, focusing on seams and edges where dirt accumulates. Rinse thoroughly with a damp cloth to avoid soap residues that can attract more dirt. When finished, pat dry and keep away from heat sources to prevent stiffening or warping of synthetic panels.
Insoles and Removable Components Care
Insoles are a frequent source of odor and sweat buildup. If removable, take them out and wash by hand with mild detergent in lukewarm water. Gently scrub and rinse, then press to remove excess water and air-dry completely before re-inserting. Avoid machine washing insoles, which can separate adhesives or degrade cushioning materials.
Laces deserve a thorough clean too. Remove laces and either wash by hand in soapy water or place them in a mesh bag to cycle in the machine. Let laces dry fully before relacing the shoes to prevent moisture from lingering inside, which can promote odor and mildew. Clean, dry components help maintain fit, comfort, and overall shoe life.
Tools, Detergents, and Safety
Choosing the Right Detergents and Cleaners
Choose a mild liquid laundry detergent, fragrance-free if possible, or a specialized sneaker cleaner designed for athletic footwear. Avoid concentrated household cleaners or bleach, which can discolor fabrics and degrade materials. For odor control, you can add a small amount of baking soda to the cleaning solution or use a diluted white vinegar rinse on tough odors, followed by a thorough rinse.
When dealing with white soles or rubber detailing, a non-abrasive cleaner can prevent yellowing or dulling. If your shoes have delicate colorways, you may want to test any cleaner on a hidden area first to ensure no color transfer occurs. A cautious approach reduces the risk of irreversible staining or fading during cleaning sessions.
Tools That Protect the Material
Use soft-bristled brushes, old toothbrushes, microfiber cloths, and a bowl or basin for soaking. Avoid stiff bristles that can scratch mesh or scratch glossy plastic overlays. A soft sponge is helpful for wiping down the shoe’s exterior without applying excessive pressure that could deform the shape.
For drying and handling, keep a dedicated drying rack or clean towels handy. Do not use a clothes dryer or other high-heat devices; heat can degrade foam, adhesives, and mesh. If you need to speed drying, place shoes in a well-ventilated area with air movement or a fan. These tools help you achieve a clean result without compromising structural integrity.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Hand Washing Method in Detail
Commence by removing laces and insoles, setting them aside for separate cleaning. Brush off loose dirt before preparing a basin with cold or lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Dip a soft brush into the solution and work gently over the entire surface, focusing on stained areas and seams where dirt collects.
Rinse the brush and wipe away soap with a clean, damp cloth. For stubborn spots, apply a light paste of baking soda and water, then scrub with a toothbrush in gentle, circular motions. Rinse thoroughly and dry the shoes in a ventilated space, stuffing them with newspaper or paper towels to help retain shape and absorb moisture.
Machine Washing Method in Detail
If the label confirms machine washing is safe, use a gentle, cold-water cycle. Place shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase to protect them and balance the load with a few towels to cushion the cycle. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh chemicals that can degrade padding and color.
After washing, remove laces and insoles to air dry separately. Do not put shoes in the dryer; instead, allow them to air-dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Re-lace and reinsert insoles only when completely dry to prevent moisture retention and odor development.
Spot Cleaning Stubborn Stains and Odors
For localized issues, create a small cleaning solution with water and a drop of mild detergent or a gentle sneaker cleaner. Apply with a soft brush or cloth, working in small circular motions. Rinse with a damp cloth until no residue remains, then dry thoroughly.
To neutralize odors, sprinkle a minimal amount of baking soda inside the shoe and let sit overnight before shaking out. If odors persist, consider replacing the insoles or using a breathable deodorant insert. Spot cleaning helps address problem areas without a full wash, preserving delicate materials and color finishes.
Drying, Deodorizing, and Longevity
Drying Techniques That Prevent Damage
Drying is as important as cleaning. After washing, do not pile shoes in a heap; instead, air dry them in a shaded area with good airflow. Stuff the toe box with crumpled paper to help maintain shape and absorb excess moisture. A fan or open window can speed drying while preventing overheating, which can warp foam and delaminate adhesives.
Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or heaters. UV exposure can fade colors and weaken fabrics. Patience during drying ensures the shoe’s materials recover their shape and performance characteristics, preserving comfort and fit for future wear.
Deodorizing and Odor Prevention
Odor control is an ongoing maintenance practice. Use baking soda inside the shoe periodically to absorb moisture and neutralize smells. You can also insert odor-control sachets or activate charcoal inserts for longer-lasting freshness, especially if the shoes are stored in shared spaces like gyms or closets.
After drying, consider a light spray of a gentle, fabric-safe deodorizer if you routinely use your shoes in sweaty conditions. Ensure any product is compatible with the shoe materials and won’t leave slick residues on the surface. Regular deodorizing complements cleaning, keeping your Under Armour shoes smelling fresh and ready for the next workout.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Life
Develop a routine that combines cleaning, deodorizing, and occasional conditioning (for leather accents) to extend the life of your shoes. Rotate between pairs when possible to reduce wear concentration and allow each pair to fully air out between uses. A simple maintenance schedule can dramatically extend the usefulness of your footwear.
Store shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees or rolled paper to maintain shape, especially for knit or mesh uppers. Replacing worn insoles and laces when necessary helps preserve fit and cushioning. Thoughtful storage and routine upkeep prevent early deterioration and keep performance intact.
Conclusion
Cleaning Under Armour shoes is a careful balance between removing dirt and preserving the integrity of the materials and construction. By starting with a material-aware assessment, choosing the right method (hand wash by default, machine wash only when explicitly approved), and using mild detergents with gentle tools, you protect color, texture, and performance features. Key steps—removing insoles and laces, avoiding hot water and heat, and air-drying—support longevity while maintaining comfort and fit.
In practice, the strongest outcomes come from a thoughtful, consistent approach: treat mesh with care, condition leather accents when appropriate, address odor at its source, and dry properly to prevent distortion. With the right regimen, your Under Armour footwear stays clean, breathable, and comfortable longer, ready to perform whenever you are.
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