How to Care for Preloved Sneakers: A Gentle Routine

Your next pair deserves care that suits its material and existing condition. Start gently: a preloved shoe may already have worn lining, fragile trim or areas that need attention. Cleaning can improve its appearance, but it cannot reverse wear or restore damaged cushioning.

Look before you clean

Identify the upper material and check the manufacturer’s care guidance. Inspect loose stitching, sole separation and delicate finishes before doing any cleaning. Suede, leather, mesh and knit should not automatically receive the same treatment. If you are uncertain about the material, get advice before applying a cleaner.

Remove loose dirt gently

Nike’s care guide recommends starting with a dry, soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt from the upper and sole. Work carefully around stitching and worn areas. Avoid treating delicate surfaces like the outsole: the brush and pressure suitable for rubber may be unsuitable for the upper.

Follow the material-specific method

Use the cleaning approach recommended for the particular shoe. Nike advises gentle cleaning with a mild solution for suitable materials rather than machine washing. Check its material-specific instructions before applying moisture, especially to leather or suede. Do not assume a method used on one pair is suitable for every pair in your collection.

Allow time to dry

Nike recommends air-drying sneakers at room temperature. Let the pair dry completely before wearing it again. Give yourself time rather than rushing the cleaning immediately before going out.

Keep condition in mind

Check the sole and lining periodically, and address emerging damage rather than hiding it with cleaning. A neat-looking upper does not tell you everything about the condition of a used shoe. For an upcoming purchase, inspect the original listing photos and read our preloved buying checklist.

Read Nike’s official shoe care guide for its full instructions. Ready for another find? Explore OpalFit new arrivals or browse your favourite brands.