How to clean leather trainers

By / April 4th, 2025 / There are currently 0 comments

Everyone knows the feeling of new, clean trainers. But what do you do when they’re not looking so fresh anymore? Regularly cleaning and caring for your trainers will make them last longer and keep them looking as good as the day you bought them.

Whether you have a pair of white trainers or any other colour that you can’t seem to keep the dirt off, learn how to clean leather trainers in this easy-to-follow care guide.

We also offer tips on stretching and softening your leather trainers if they’re causing discomfort and how to stop them from making annoying squeaking noises.

Table of contents:

How to wash leather trainers

Keep your trainers looking as fresh as the day you bought them by following these quick and easy cleaning steps.

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need from this list. You will need:

  • A soft cloth or brush
  • Mild soap (like washing up liquid) or leather cleaner
  • Warm water
  • A soft, dry towel
  • Leather conditioner (optional)

Steps:

  1. Remove laces and insoles: Removing the laces and insoles makes it easier to clean the leather surface. If your laces are dirty, you can wash them separately in soapy water or run them through the washing machine.
  2. Dry brush or wipe: Start cleaning your trainers using a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris from your trainers’ surface. Be gentle to avoid scratching the leather.
  3. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap with water or use a specialised leather cleaner. Ensure the soap is mild to avoid damaging the leather.
  4. Clean trainers: Dip the soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water, wring out excess water and gently wipe down the leather.
  5. Spot clean: Gently scrub the damp cloth over the stained area with soapy water, a water-white vinegar solution or leather cleaner. Use small, circular motions to lift the dirt or stain. Avoid using too much water, as excess moisture can damage the leather. Repeat the process until your trainers are clean.
  6. Rinse: Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
  7. Dry: Pat the trainers dry with a soft towel. Then, let them air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can dry out and crack the leather.
  8. Condition the leather: Just because trainers are casual shoes doesn’t mean the leather doesn’t require the same level of care as your dress shoes. Once the trainers are dry apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple.
  9. Deoderise trainers: If your trainers have an odour, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside and let it sit overnight. Shake out the baking soda the next day.
  10. Reassemble: Once everything is dry, reinsert your insoles and laces.

* Never put your leather trainers in the washing machine, as this can damage the leather *

How to clean white leather trainers

White leather trainers are harder to keep clean and require much more maintenance to keep them spotless.

For general cleaning, follow the steps above. But as stains and marks appear more clearly on white leather, pay extra attention to them. Use a soft-bristled brush or a magic eraser with soapy water for tougher spots.

Another trick to eliminate stains on white trainers is using white, non-gel toothpaste to remove scuff marks. Apply a small amount to the mark, rub gently with a soft cloth and wipe away with a damp cloth.

How to keep white leather trainers white

Regularly maintaining and cleaning your white trainers is key to keeping them as white as possible. Tackle dirt and stains immediately to prevent them from setting in. You can also consider using leather protective spray to help prevent stains and damage from occurring.

How to keep white soles white

Alot of trainers these days feature a contrasting white rubber sole, which when they are pristine look great. However there’s nothing worse then when the soles get stained. For this very issue we now offer Saphirs Intense Sole Cleaner

The Intense sole cleaner effectively removes even the toughest stains and dirt from the edges of rubber soles. It’s water-based, eco-friendly formula restores the original colour without altering it.

To use:

  • Shake the product well before use.
  • Apply the product to a damp brush ordirectly on to the midsoles
  • Gently scrub with the briush until all tarces of dirt are removed.
  • Wipe Away any excess product with a damp cotton cloth or microfibre towl
  • Allow to dry for at least 30 mins

How to stretch leather trainers

There’s nothing better than getting a fresh pair of new trainers. But, there is always the unfortunate moment when you realise your new trainers are not as comfortable as your old ones.

All leather trainers need some stretching and wearing in, especially if you have unusually shaped feet. Although you won’t be able to stretch your trainers a whole size, you can stretch them enough around your feet to prevent them from rubbing in certain areas. So here’s how to stretch leather shoes for a comfortable feel.

  • Wear-in with thick socks: If your trainers only need stretching slightly, wear them around the house with thick socks for a few hours each day. The leather will eventually stretch to your foot shape.
  • Use shoe stretchers: You can stretch your trainers with shoe stretchers or shoe trees. Insert them into the trainers and adjust them gradually to help stretch the leather. Some stretchers come with special plugs to target specific areas if you find they rub in certain areas.
  • Use stretching sprays: You can also use sprays that loosen tight areas to allow your trainers to stretch more easily with wear.
  • Visit the cobblers: If these home methods don’t work, take your shoes to a professional cobbler, as they have special equipment to stretch shoes without damaging them.

Make sure that any stretching you do is gradual to avoid overstretching and damaging the leather.

How to soften leather trainers

New leather trainers are often stiff to begin with. Although, if you don’t regularly care for them, the leather can also become dry and crack.

The best way to soften and moisturise your trainer leather is to use a leather conditioner.

To use:

  1. Make sure your trainers are clean by following the steps above.
  2. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner, using a similar colour to your trainer leather, using a soft cloth and rub it into the leather in circular motions.
  3. Let it absorb for a few hours or overnight.

How to stop leather trainers from squeaking

Squeaky trainers can be annoying, but there are several things you can try to stop it.

  1. Identify the source: First, identify where the squeak is coming from. It could be the insole, the sole or the leather.
  2. Lubricate the leather: If the squeak is coming from the leather, one of the first things to try is applying a leather conditioner to help soften it, which helps reduce friction and noise.
  3. Try baby powder: You can also try sprinkling baby powder or talcum powder inside the shoe, especially around the insole, to help absorb moisture and reduce friction.
  4. Adjust the insoles: Try removing and reinserting the insoles, as they may be incorrectly placed, creating friction. If this doesn’t work, place a thin layer of tissue or a dryer sheet under the insole to reduce movement and noise.
  5. Check the soles: If the noise comes from the rubber soles, apply a small amount of oil, like coconut oil or WD-40, to the rubber parts. But be careful not to make the soles of your shoes too slippy with this method. Sometimes, rubbing the soles with sandpaper to roughen them up can also reduce squeaking.
  6. Moisture control: If moisture is causing the squeak, try drying out your trainers. Place them in a dry, warm place or use a shoe dryer. You can also draw out moisture with silica gel packets or baking powder.
  7. Inspect for damage: Check for any damage or loose parts potentially causing the squeak. Repair any loose stitching or parts if needed.
  8. Consult a professional: If none of these methods work, consider taking your trainers to a professional cobbler. They can often diagnose and fix the issue if it’s not obvious.

Leather trainers at Cheaney Shoes

Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will help to keep your trainers looking their best for longer, whether you value taking care of your possessions so they last for years or take pride in your appearance.

Invest in Cheaney trainers if you believe in buying good quality trainers that last. We use our premium leathers, and together with Goral’s heritage craftsmanship, we bring you high-quality trainers worth taking care of. Shop a range of colourways at Cheaney Shoes, including popular white trainers.  

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