How To Clean New Balance Mesh Sneakers: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Your New Balance mesh sneakers are your go-to for comfort and style, whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands, or just enjoying a casual day out. But let’s face it, life happens. Dirt, dust, and the occasional spill are inevitable, and your pristine kicks can quickly look worse for wear. Don’t worry, though! Cleaning your New Balance mesh sneakers doesn’t have to be a daunting task.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning your favorite sneakers, from gathering the right supplies to tackling stubborn stains. We’ll cover the best methods for various types of dirt and grime, ensuring your shoes look their best and last longer. Ready to bring your New Balance sneakers back to life? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents show

Understanding New Balance Mesh Sneakers

New Balance sneakers are known for their comfort and performance, often featuring a breathable mesh upper. This mesh material is a key factor in the shoe’s breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. However, this open weave also makes the shoes more susceptible to dirt and stains. Understanding the construction of your sneakers is crucial for effective cleaning.

Types of Mesh

Not all mesh is created equal. New Balance uses various mesh types, each with slightly different cleaning requirements:

Standard Mesh: The most common type, offering good breathability.
Engineered Mesh: Often found in performance shoes, this mesh is designed for specific zones of flexibility and support.
Synthetic Mesh: A more durable option, often used in areas prone to wear.

Before you begin cleaning, identify the type of mesh on your sneakers. While the general cleaning methods remain the same, some mesh types may require extra care. (See Also: Does New Balance Sneakers Come In Size D Width )

Materials Beyond the Mesh

Besides the mesh, your New Balance sneakers likely include other materials. These materials also need consideration during the cleaning process:

Suede/Nubuck: These materials require special care and should be cleaned with specific brushes and cleaners.
Leather: Leather can be cleaned with leather-specific cleaners and conditioners.
Rubber: The soles are typically made of rubber and can be cleaned with a general cleaner.
Foam: Often used in the midsole, foam can be sensitive to harsh chemicals.

Always consider all materials when cleaning to avoid damaging your shoes.

Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies

Having the right tools and supplies makes cleaning your New Balance mesh sneakers much easier and more effective. Here’s a list of essentials:

Soft-bristled brush: A toothbrush or a dedicated shoe brush is ideal for gently scrubbing the mesh.
Mild detergent: Dish soap or laundry detergent (free of bleach) works well.
Warm water: For mixing with the detergent and rinsing.
Microfiber cloths or clean towels: For wiping and drying.
Optional: Shoe cleaner solution: Specifically designed for sneakers, these cleaners can be more effective on tougher stains.
Optional: Stain remover: For specific stains like oil or grass.
Optional: Baking soda: To absorb odors and help with stain removal.
Optional: Shoe trees or paper towels: To help the shoes maintain their shape during drying.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Follow these steps to clean your New Balance mesh sneakers effectively: (See Also: Does New Balance Sneakers Have An Arch Support In It )

Step 1: Prep Your Sneakers

Remove the laces: Untie and remove the laces. Wash them separately by hand or in a laundry bag in the washing machine.
Remove loose dirt: Tap the shoes together or use a brush to remove loose dirt and debris from the surface.
Prepare the inside: If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out. You can clean these separately.

Step 2: Mix Your Cleaning Solution

In a bowl, mix a small amount of mild detergent (such as dish soap) with warm water. The solution should be soapy, but not overly sudsy. A ratio of a few drops of detergent to a cup of water usually works well.

Step 3: Scrub the Mesh

Dip your brush: Dip your soft-bristled brush into the cleaning solution.
Gently scrub the mesh: Start scrubbing the mesh uppers in small, circular motions. Avoid applying too much pressure, which could damage the material.
Focus on stains: Pay extra attention to any stains or dirty areas. For tougher stains, you might need to use a stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water (test in an inconspicuous area first).
Clean the tongue and collar: Don’t forget to clean the tongue and collar of the shoe, as these areas often accumulate dirt and sweat.

Step 4: Clean the Soles

Prepare a separate solution: You can use the same cleaning solution or a slightly stronger one for the soles.
Scrub the soles: Use the brush to scrub the rubber soles, removing dirt and grime. Pay attention to the edges and the textured areas where dirt often gets trapped.
Clean the midsole: If the midsole is dirty, gently scrub it with the cleaning solution. Be careful not to use excessive water or harsh chemicals on the foam midsole.

Step 5: Rinse the Sneakers

Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the sneakers under cool, running water. Make sure to remove all traces of soap.
Rinse the brush: Rinse your brush to remove any remaining dirt or detergent.

Step 6: Dry Your Sneakers

Pat dry: Use a clean microfiber cloth or towel to pat the sneakers dry.
Air dry: Allow your sneakers to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat. Direct sunlight can fade the colors, and heat can warp the shape of the shoes.
Use shoe trees (optional): If you have shoe trees, insert them into the shoes to help maintain their shape while they dry. If you don’t have shoe trees, you can stuff the shoes with paper towels to absorb moisture and maintain their form.
Allow ample drying time: Depending on the humidity, it can take several hours or even a full day for your sneakers to dry completely.

Step 7: Reassemble and Finish

Reinsert insoles: Once the insoles are dry, reinsert them into the shoes.
Lace up: Lace up your sneakers with the clean laces.
Inspect and enjoy: Inspect your freshly cleaned New Balance sneakers and enjoy their renewed look!

Dealing with Specific Stains

Different stains require different approaches. Here’s how to handle some common sneaker stains:

Mud and Dirt

Let it dry: Allow the mud to dry completely.
Brush it off: Use a brush to remove as much dried mud as possible.
Clean with solution: Use the cleaning solution and brush as described in the step-by-step guide.

Grass Stains

Pre-treat: Apply a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes.
Scrub: Gently scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush.
Clean and rinse: Clean and rinse the sneakers as described in the step-by-step guide.

Oil and Grease Stains

Blot excess: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot up as much oil as possible.
Apply degreaser: Apply a degreaser or dish soap directly to the stain.
Scrub: Gently scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush.
Clean and rinse: Clean and rinse the sneakers as described in the step-by-step guide.

Ink Stains

Act quickly: The sooner you treat an ink stain, the better.
Blot: Blot the stain with a clean cloth to remove excess ink. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain.
Apply rubbing alcohol: Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto the stain.
Blot and repeat: Blot the area with a clean cloth, and repeat until the stain lifts.
Clean and rinse: Clean and rinse the sneakers as described in the step-by-step guide.

Maintaining Your New Balance Mesh Sneakers

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your sneakers and keep them looking their best. Here are some tips:

Regular cleaning: Clean your sneakers regularly, even if they don’t look visibly dirty. This prevents dirt from accumulating and setting in.
Spot cleaning: Address stains as soon as they appear. The quicker you act, the easier it will be to remove the stain.
Protective sprays: Consider using a protective spray to help repel dirt and water. Apply the spray to clean, dry sneakers.
Proper storage: Store your sneakers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Alternate shoes: If you wear your sneakers frequently, consider alternating them with another pair to give them a break.
Avoid machine washing: While some people machine wash their sneakers, it’s generally not recommended for mesh sneakers, as it can damage the material and affect the shape of the shoe.
Inspect regularly: Regularly check your sneakers for wear and tear, such as loose stitching or worn soles. Address any issues promptly.

Advanced Cleaning Techniques

For tougher cleaning challenges, you might consider these advanced techniques: (See Also: Does Nike Detroit Have Good Sneakers To Flip )

Deep Cleaning

For a more thorough clean, you can:

Soak the shoes: After removing the laces and insoles, soak the shoes in a bucket of warm, soapy water for a short time (no more than 30 minutes).
Agitate the solution: Gently agitate the shoes in the water.
Scrub: Use a brush to scrub the shoes, paying attention to all areas.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the shoes thoroughly under running water.
Air dry: Air dry the shoes completely.

Using a Washing Machine (use with Caution)

While not recommended for regular cleaning, you can use a washing machine *very* cautiously. If you choose to do so:

Use a laundry bag: Place the sneakers in a mesh laundry bag to protect them.
Use a gentle cycle: Select a gentle cycle with cold water.
Use mild detergent: Use a small amount of mild detergent.
Air dry: Never put your sneakers in the dryer. Always air dry.

Important Note: Machine washing can potentially damage your sneakers. It’s best to stick with hand-washing methods.

Materials to Avoid

Certain cleaning products and methods can damage your New Balance mesh sneakers. Avoid these:

Harsh chemicals: Avoid bleach, strong solvents, and abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the mesh and the colors.
Excessive heat: Avoid using a dryer or placing your sneakers in direct sunlight, as heat can warp the shoes and fade the colors.
Stiff brushes: Avoid using stiff-bristled brushes, as they can scratch or damage the mesh.
Over-soaking: Avoid soaking your sneakers for extended periods, as this can weaken the adhesives.

Verdict

Cleaning your New Balance mesh sneakers is an essential part of maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. By following the step-by-step guide and using the right supplies, you can easily remove dirt, stains, and grime, keeping your sneakers looking fresh and new. Remember to be gentle, patient, and consistent with your cleaning routine. With proper care, your New Balance sneakers will continue to provide comfort and style for many wears to come.

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Regular cleaning and maintenance, combined with the techniques outlined in this guide, will ensure that your New Balance mesh sneakers remain a staple in your wardrobe. Enjoy your clean and stylish footwear!