Running shoes take a lot of punishment. They splash through puddles, pick up mud, and spend a good deal of time in dark cupboards or bags. A few simple habits can keep them in better condition and make them nicer to wear. None of it takes long, and most of it is common sense once you know what to avoid.
Cleaning without harm
If your shoes are muddy, let the mud dry first, then knock off the worst of it and brush the rest away with an old brush. For anything stubborn, use a damp cloth or sponge with a little mild soap. Avoid scrubbing hard, because that can damage the fabric on top. Remove the laces and insoles if you can, and clean them separately by hand.
Do not put running shoes in the washing machine or the tumble dryer. The heat and the tumbling can loosen the glue and spoil the shape. Never put them on a radiator or next to a fire either, because strong heat can make the materials stiff and brittle. Patience is the best method: slow, gentle drying does the least harm.
To dry them, stuff the shoes loosely with newspaper or a towel, which soaks up the damp from the inside. Change the paper once or twice if the shoes are very wet. Stand them in a warm, airy spot, away from direct heat and sunlight. Leave the tongues pulled forward and the laces loose, so that air can get in easily.
After every run, take the shoes out of your bag and let them breathe. Shoes that are shut in the dark, still damp, are the ones that start to smell. If you run often, try to own two pairs and alternate between them, so that each pair has a day to dry properly. Store them somewhere dry and cool, not in a hot car or a damp shed.
Finally, look at your shoes now and again. Check the soles, the laces and the fabric, and notice whether they still feel comfortable. When they are worn out, you can give them a second life for gardening or dog walks. With a little attention, a pair of shoes will keep you company for a long time.
