How to Clean Your On Cloud Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

On Cloud shoes are renowned for their comfort, performance, and distinctive design. Whether you’re a runner, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a stylish and comfortable shoe, keeping your On Clouds clean is essential for maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. Dirt, grime, and general wear and tear can take a toll on your favorite pair, but with the right techniques and a little effort, you can restore them to their former glory. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of cleaning your On Cloud shoes, providing detailed steps, helpful tips, and essential precautions to ensure a thorough and safe cleaning experience.

Why Clean Your On Cloud Shoes?

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand why regular cleaning is crucial for your On Cloud shoes:

* **Aesthetics:** Clean shoes simply look better. Removing dirt, mud, and stains will keep your On Clouds looking fresh and stylish.
* **Performance:** Dirt and debris can accumulate in the CloudTec soles, affecting their cushioning and responsiveness. Cleaning them ensures optimal performance.
* **Longevity:** Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of harmful substances that can degrade the materials of your shoes, extending their lifespan.
* **Hygiene:** Shoes can harbor bacteria and fungi. Cleaning helps maintain good foot hygiene and prevents unpleasant odors.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following supplies before you begin:

* **Soft-bristled brush:** An old toothbrush or a specialized shoe cleaning brush works well.
* **Mild detergent:** Dish soap or a gentle laundry detergent is ideal. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
* **Warm water:** Warm water helps loosen dirt and grime.
* **Microfiber cloth:** For wiping and drying.
* **Shoe cleaner (optional):** If you prefer a commercial shoe cleaner, choose one specifically designed for athletic shoes.
* **Baking soda (optional):** For odor removal.
* **Magic Eraser (optional):** For tough stains on the midsole.
* **Sink or basin:** For washing.
* **Newspaper or shoe trees:** To help maintain the shoe’s shape while drying.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Follow these steps to clean your On Cloud shoes effectively:

1. Prepare Your Shoes

* **Remove the laces:** Take out the laces and set them aside. They will be cleaned separately.
* **Remove the insoles:** Take out the insoles, as these will also be cleaned separately.
* **Tap the shoes together:** Gently tap the soles of your shoes together to dislodge any loose dirt, pebbles, or debris.

2. Clean the Laces

* **Hand wash:** The best method for cleaning shoelaces is to hand wash them. Fill a small bowl or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
* **Soak and scrub:** Place the laces in the soapy water and let them soak for 10-15 minutes. Gently scrub them with your fingers to remove dirt and grime.
* **Rinse thoroughly:** Rinse the laces under running water until all traces of soap are gone.
* **Dry:** Lay the laces flat on a clean towel or hang them to air dry. Avoid putting them in the dryer, as the heat can damage them.

3. Clean the Insoles

* **Wipe down:** Use a damp microfiber cloth with a small amount of mild detergent to wipe down the insoles. Pay attention to areas with visible dirt or odor.
* **Deodorize (optional):** Sprinkle baking soda on the insoles and let it sit for a few hours to absorb odors. Then, vacuum or shake off the excess baking soda.
* **Air dry:** Allow the insoles to air dry completely before placing them back in the shoes. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or using a dryer, as this can damage the materials.

4. Clean the Uppers

* **Dry brush:** Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove loose dirt and debris from the uppers of the shoes. Pay close attention to seams, creases, and areas where dirt tends to accumulate.
* **Prepare a cleaning solution:** Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water in a bowl or sink. The solution should be sudsy but not overly concentrated.
* **Dampen the brush:** Dip the soft-bristled brush into the cleaning solution, making sure it’s not overly saturated. You want the brush to be damp, not dripping wet.
* **Scrub gently:** Gently scrub the uppers of the shoes in a circular motion. Work in small sections and avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the materials. Pay attention to areas with visible stains or dirt.
* **Rinse:** Use a clean, damp microfiber cloth to wipe away the soapy residue. Rinse the cloth frequently with clean water.
* **Repeat if necessary:** If the uppers are heavily soiled, repeat the scrubbing and rinsing process until they are clean.

5. Clean the Midsoles

* **Wipe down:** Use a damp microfiber cloth with a small amount of mild detergent to wipe down the midsoles of the shoes. Pay attention to areas with visible dirt or scuff marks.
* **Magic Eraser (optional):** For stubborn scuff marks or stains on the midsole, a Magic Eraser can be very effective. Wet the Magic Eraser and gently rub it on the affected areas. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as it can be abrasive.
* **Rinse:** Use a clean, damp microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining residue from the detergent or Magic Eraser.

6. Clean the Outsoles (CloudTec)

* **Remove debris:** Use a small tool, such as a toothpick or a small screwdriver, to remove any pebbles, twigs, or debris that may be lodged in the CloudTec elements of the outsole.
* **Scrub:** Use a soft-bristled brush and the same cleaning solution you used for the uppers to scrub the outsoles. Pay close attention to the CloudTec elements, as dirt can easily accumulate in these areas.
* **Rinse:** Rinse the outsoles thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of soap. A garden hose can be helpful for this step, but be careful not to spray the uppers of the shoes too forcefully.

7. Dry Your Shoes

* **Air dry:** Allow your On Cloud shoes to air dry completely. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or using a dryer, as the heat can damage the materials and adhesives.
* **Stuff with newspaper or use shoe trees:** To help maintain the shape of your shoes while they dry, stuff them with crumpled newspaper or use shoe trees. This will also help absorb moisture.
* **Drying time:** Drying time can vary depending on the humidity and temperature, but it typically takes 12-24 hours for the shoes to dry completely. Be patient and make sure the shoes are completely dry before wearing them.

8. Reassemble Your Shoes

* **Replace the insoles:** Once the shoes are completely dry, replace the insoles.
* **Lace up:** Re-lace the shoes with the cleaned laces.

Tips for Cleaning Specific On Cloud Materials

On Cloud shoes are made from a variety of materials, so it’s important to adjust your cleaning techniques accordingly:

* **Knit uppers:** Knit uppers are delicate and require extra care. Use a very soft brush and a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously.
* **Mesh uppers:** Mesh uppers are more durable than knit, but still require a gentle touch. Use a soft-bristled brush and avoid using harsh chemicals.
* **Synthetic leather:** Synthetic leather is relatively easy to clean. Use a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners.
* **Rubber:** Rubber outsoles can be cleaned with a brush and a stronger cleaning solution if necessary. However, avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the rubber.

Dealing with Stubborn Stains

If you encounter stubborn stains that won’t come out with regular cleaning, try these techniques:

* **Baking soda paste:** Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly.
* **Vinegar solution:** Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. Test this solution on an inconspicuous area first, as vinegar can discolor some materials.
* **Commercial stain remover:** If other methods fail, you can try a commercial stain remover specifically designed for shoes. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.

Preventative Measures

To keep your On Cloud shoes clean and in good condition for longer, consider these preventative measures:

* **Use a shoe protector spray:** Apply a shoe protector spray to your shoes to create a barrier against dirt, water, and stains. Reapply the spray regularly, especially after cleaning.
* **Avoid wearing your shoes in harsh conditions:** If possible, avoid wearing your On Cloud shoes in muddy, wet, or otherwise harsh conditions. This will help prevent them from getting dirty and damaged.
* **Clean your shoes regularly:** Regular cleaning is the best way to keep your On Cloud shoes looking their best. Aim to clean them every few weeks, or more often if they get particularly dirty.
* **Store your shoes properly:** When you’re not wearing your shoes, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees to help maintain their shape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Using harsh chemicals:** Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals, as these can damage the materials of your shoes.
* **Putting your shoes in the washing machine or dryer:** Washing machines and dryers can damage the shape, structure, and adhesives of your shoes.
* **Using too much water:** Avoid saturating your shoes with water, as this can damage the materials and prolong the drying time.
* **Drying your shoes in direct sunlight or with a hair dryer:** Direct sunlight and hair dryers can cause the materials to dry out and crack.
* **Ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions:** Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific On Cloud shoes.

Conclusion

Cleaning your On Cloud shoes regularly is essential for maintaining their appearance, performance, and longevity. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your favorite pair of On Clouds looking and performing their best for years to come. Remember to use gentle cleaning solutions, avoid harsh chemicals, and always allow your shoes to air dry completely. With a little care and attention, your On Cloud shoes will continue to provide you with comfort and style on all your adventures.