How to Clean Your Sneakers Like a Pro

Nairobi's streets are beautiful — but they are not kind to white sneakers. Red clay from construction sites, dust from unpaved roads, and the occasional downpour can age a pair prematurely if you don't know how to clean them correctly.

What You'll Need

• A soft-bristle brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly)
• Mild dish soap or dedicated sneaker cleaner
• Warm water
• Microfibre cloth
• Newspaper or paper towels (for stuffing)

Step 1 — Remove the Laces

Always start by removing the laces. Drop them in a small bowl of warm soapy water while you work on the shoe. This is also a great chance to replace yellowed laces — a fresh pair of laces can make a three-year-old shoe look brand new.

Step 2 — Dry Brush First

Before any water touches the shoe, use a dry brush to knock off loose dirt and mud. If you wet dry mud first it turns to paste and gets pushed deeper into the material. Always brush in one direction — heel to toe.

Step 3 — Clean the Upper

Mix a few drops of mild soap into warm water. Dip your brush, work up a light lather, and scrub in gentle circular motions. For leather uppers (Air Force 1, Jordan 1) use minimal water — leather doesn't like being soaked. For mesh uppers (Air Max, Ultraboost) you can be a little more generous.

Step 4 — Tackle the Midsole

The midsole (the white rubber between the upper and outsole) is where most yellowing happens. A paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide applied with an old toothbrush and left for 10 minutes does wonders. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Step 5 — Dry Properly

Never place sneakers in direct sunlight or near a heater — this causes the glue to weaken and the material to crack. Stuff them firmly with newspaper to hold their shape and leave them in a shaded, ventilated spot overnight.

Suede & Nubuck — Special Care

Never use water on suede. Use a dedicated suede eraser for scuffs and a suede brush to restore the nap. For serious stains, a small amount of white vinegar on a cloth can lift marks without damaging the material.

Storage Tips

Store your sneakers in their original boxes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Shoetrees or crumpled newspaper inside will help them hold their shape between wears. For long-term storage, silica gel packets prevent moisture build-up.