Care for sneakers | Why you shouldn't wash them with water and the correct care method
Sneakers are a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn for work or everyday outings.
That's why many people are concerned about how to care for their sneakers and whether it's okay to wash them with water.
In fact, I was also confused and tried to wash it thoroughly several times.
However, each time I did this, I was reminded that it's best not to wash sneakers with water.
In this article, I will share some of the mistakes I have made,
We will introduce the pitfalls of washing with water and the correct way to care for your sneakers to make them last longer.
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Unexpected trouble that occurred when washing sneakers with water
"It gets the cleanest when you wash it thoroughly."
--With that in mind, I have washed my sneakers many times.
However, in reality, washing with water often accelerates deterioration.
I can't wear it on the day because it won't dry.
Even if I wash them in the morning, they don't dry until the evening and my toes remain damp.
**The fact that "if you wash the shoes thoroughly, you cannot wear them for a longer period of time"** is a major disadvantage.
The toes get twisted due to deformation
If the toes are not dried properly or shrink due to the heat of the hair dryer, they will bend like a beak.
The more I liked it, the more shocking the failure was.
Yellowing of white sneakers
Even if it is pure white immediately after washing, it may gradually turn yellow the next day.
**This is an “opposite effect” caused by residual detergent or changes in the material.**
The smell becomes stronger
If I wear them before they are completely dry, the moisture will build up and the smell will get worse.
These experiences combined have led me to strongly feel that washing sneakers with water is not the best way to care for them.
Common mistakes and reasons for them
The more you rush it, the worse it will be for your sneakers.
Direct application of a hair dryer
It's a triple whammy: shrinkage, shine, and deformation.
Only the string shrinks and the color transfers
This can damage even parts that don't need to be washed.
Deterioration of adhesive
The outsole becomes more likely to float, reducing both appearance and durability.
All of these things were done with good intentions, but they had the opposite effect.
Reasons why it is better not to wash with water
Here's what I came to realize after using it:
Sneakers are structurally "weak against water"
Shrinkage depending on material
The adhesive part peels off easily
May cause discoloration and yellowing
Sneakers are made from a combination of different materials such as fabric, leather, synthetic leather, and rubber.
The more you wash it with water, the more easily each material is damaged.
Difficult to dry completely
If moisture remains inside, it can cause odors, mold, and deformation.
Every time you wash it, its lifespan shortens
The more times you wash your sneakers, the more likely they will wear out.
That's why I can now say with confidence that it's best not to wash sneakers with water.
The best way to care for your sneakers without using water
From here on, I will introduce a waterless sneaker care method that I have actually found to be effective.
① Remove surface dirt by brushing
Just a few seconds of quick wiping when you get home will dramatically reduce accumulated dirt.
② Wipe off quickly with a special cleaner
There's no need to wait for it to dry, so you can keep using it even on busy days.
3. Block dirt with waterproof spray
It repels both water and dirt, which means less need to wash it.
④ Prevent odors by replacing the insoles
70% of the odor is caused by the insoles.
Replacement care is highly effective and cost-effective.
⑤ If it gets wet, dry it in the shade
To prevent deformation, dry the product slowly in a well-ventilated area rather than in the heat of the sun.
Easy-to-follow daily care routine
When it comes to caring for your sneakers, it's important to have an easy system.
10 seconds of brushing after returning home
Light weekend cleaning
Seasonal waterproof spray
If you notice any odor, replace the insoles.
All of these are easy habits to stick to, and you'll see that your sneakers last longer if you don't wash them with water.
We tend to think that washing sneakers will make them cleaner, but
In reality, there are many risks involved, such as deformation, yellowing, not drying, and odor, so washing with water is not recommended.
I have failed many times myself,
Now I can confidently say that it's best not to wash sneakers with water.
Without using water,
By combining brushing, special cleaners, waterproof care, etc.
Sneakers are easy to keep clean.
Taking good care of your tree will actually make you love it more.
Please start taking care of your sneakers today in a way that you can continue without any stress.