How to Clean New Balance Shoes (Any Materials and Methods)

As someone who owns a pair of New Balance sneakers, I can attest to the fact that they are some of the most comfortable shoes on the market. However, it’s important to keep them clean and in top shape, no matter how much you love wearing them. That’s why I’m excited to share some secrets and tips on how to clean New Balance shoes.

When it comes to sneakers, there are a lot of brands to choose from, but I’ve found that New Balance sneakers are the perfect fit for me. And as someone who loves comfy shoes, I’m always looking for ways to keep my sneakers looking and feeling great.

Let’s learn how to clean New Balance shoes so you can enjoy the comfort and style they offer for years to come!

I. New Balance Shoes Cleaning Kit

• ShoeCleaner 
• Apron 
• Premium Brush
• Medium Brush 
• Standard Brush
• Small Brush or Toothbrush
• Microfiber Cloth
• Shoe Tree
• Container/Pan
• Shoe Perfume

II. How I Clean My New Balance Shoes

• Prepare the New Balance shoes that you want to clean:

A pair of New Balance shoes in dirty condition. 

• Prepare the material needed to clean your sneakers:

Prepare the Shoecleaner, apron, Premium Brush, Medium Brush, Standard Brush, Small Brush, Microfiber Cloth, 2 pieces of Shoe Tree, and a container to store water and ShoePerfume. 

• Remove the laces from your New Balance Sneakers:

It’s recommendable to remove the laces from your New Balance shoes. After you manage to separate them, you can soak the laces inside a water that has been mixed with Shoe Cleaner. After waiting for some time, clean it and squeeze it a bit to remove the water. Finally, you can dry it off with a microfiber cloth. 

• Insert the Shoetree in your New Balance Sneakers:

This is an essential step, as a Shoetree will be important to maintain the shape of your New Balance sneaker when it’s being washed. However, make sure to remove the insole before inserting a Shoetree. 

• Dry-clean the Sneakers

Before washing the New Balance with water, we need to brush the upper part and midsole with a premium brush to wipe off debris and dirt that is often found on the shoes. 

• Wash the Outsole and Midsole

During this cleaning stage, you can use a Standard Brush. Make sure to use all your strength when cleaning the outsole, as it’s naturally the dirtiest part of a shoe.

As soon as you have finished cleaning the outsole, you can proceed by cleaning the midsole with a Medium Brush. This time, patience and diligence are needed, as there will be a lot of dirty spots that are hard to clean.  

• Wash Your New Balance’s Insole

If possible, make sure to remove the insole from your New Balance sneaker. Then, proceed to brush the insole with a Premium brush and wait until it dries off before inserting it back inside the sneaker. 

Note: Don’t force to remove the insole, as some New Balance sneakers were made with their insoles glued to the shoes. When you force it out, it will definitely damage your precious item. 

• Wash the Outer-Upper Part of your New Balance sneakers

Use the Premium Brush to wash the upper part of your sneaker in order to prevent any damage to your shoe. When cleaning the outer-upper part of your sneaker, make sure to do it carefully! Shortly afterwards, you may wipe it with microfiber cloth by gently tapping it to the shoes and letting water get absorbed. 

You can also use a small brush to clean the narrow space inside the New Balance sneakers that are hard to reach. After the brushing is over, you can proceed by wiping it with a microfiber cloth. You can actually use a Premium Brush, but don’t force it if the space inside the shoes is too narrow. 

• Detailing

Use a wet microfiber cloth to clean out dirty parts that are located on your New Balance’s details. You can also use it to clean the midsole and outsole section of your shoes. 

• Drying Process

Dry off your shoes by using a fan. As an alternative, you can also dry it by waving your hands or placing the shoes in a cold area with minimal moisture. Try not to dry the sneakers by placing it under direct sunlight, as it can damage the glue or paint of said shoes. 

• Finishing 

Once all necessary parts are dry, then you can place the insole back inside the shoe. The same thing also goes for the laces. Now, your shoe is back in action and looks fresh again!

III. Cleaning Every Type of New Balance Shoe Material

There are a lot of ways how to clean new balance shoes. Although New Balance has put out its own recommendations for cleaning its products, I still have my own trick that you can try! 

Follow the instructions carefully and be thorough!

a. How to clean New Balance Shoes Made from Suede

Step #1: Brushing Off Loose Dirt

Before cleaning, remove any loose dirt or dust from the suede. You can use a soft brush or a suede brush to brush off the surface dirt gently. Brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede fibers.

Step #2: Treat Stains

If there are specific stains on the suede, you can try using a suede eraser. Gently rub the eraser over the stain in a circular motion. Be careful not to rub too hard, as it may damage the suede.

Step #3: Prepare Cleaning Solution

Add a small amount of mild soap or detergent to a bowl of lukewarm water. You can also use suede cleaner to create a slightly soapy solution. Don’t use too much soap, as it can leave residue on the suede.

Step #4: Clean Suede

Next, dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking wet. Gently blot and clean the stained or soiled areas of the suede.

Step #5: Rinse and Dry

After that, use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue from the suede. Then, pat the suede with a dry towel to remove excess moisture. Do not use heat sources like a hairdryer to prevent your suede from becoming stiff or warp.

Step #6: Restore Texture

Once the shoes are completely dry, use a suede brush to restore the texture. Brush the suede in one direction to lift the nap and bring back the suede’s softness.

Step #7: Restore Texture

To protect your suede New Balance shoes from future stains and moisture, you can apply a suede protector spray.

b. How to clean New Balance Shoes Made from Mesh

The following guide applies for New Balance shoes made from mesh and synthetic textile. Check it out!

Step #1: Remove Insoles and Laces

Take out the insoles and laces from your mesh New Balance shoes. This will make it easier to clean both the shoe’s exterior and interior.

Step #2: Shake Off Loose Debris and Dirt

Start by gently shaking the shoes to remove any loose dirt or debris. You can also tap them together to dislodge dirt from the mesh.

Step #3: Create a Soapy Solution

Fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent or laundry soap. Mix the detergent in the water to create a soapy solution. Make sure the water is cold, as hot water can cause the mesh to lose its shape.

Step #4: Pre-Treat Stains

If there are specific stains on the mesh, you can use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to apply a bit of soapy water directly to the stained area. Gently scrub the stain in a circular motion.

Step #5: Clean the Mesh

Use an old toothbrush or soft brush and dip it into the soapy water. Then, gently scrub the entire mesh surface of the shoes.

Step #6: Rinse Thoroughly

Once you’ve cleaned the mesh, rinse the shoes thoroughly with cold water to remove all traces of soap. Ensure that there’s no soap residue left on the shoes.

Step #7: Dry the Shoes

Gently pat the shoes with clean towels to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the mesh, as it can deform the shape. Allow the shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Do not expose them to direct sunlight or use heat sources like a hairdryer, as this can damage the mesh.

c. How to clean New Balance Shoes Made from Nubuck

Step #1: Shake Off Loose Dirt

Begin by using a nubuck brush or suede brush to gently brush away any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the nubuck surface. Brush in one direction.

Step #2: Handle the Stains

For stains or scuffs on the nubuck, use a nubuck eraser or suede eraser. Rub the eraser over the affected area in a circular motion gently. This should help lift or diminish the stains. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damage.

Step #3: Make Cleaning Solution

Mix a small amount of nubuck/suede cleaner with water in a small container, following the product’s instructions. Use a soft microfiber cloth to create a slightly soapy solution.

Step #4: Clean the Nubuck

Take a soft microfiber cloth and dip it into the soapy solution. Then, wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking wet. Gently blot and clean the entire nubuck surface of the shoes. Be careful not to soak the material; you want it to be damp enough to clean without saturating.

Step #5: Rinse and Dry

After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue from the nubuck. Then, pat the nubuck with a dry, clean cloth to remove excess moisture. Allow the shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid using heat sources or direct sunlight, as these can damage the nubuck.

Step #6: Apply Nubuck Protector

To protect your nubuck New Balance shoes from future stains and moisture, you can apply a nubuck/suede protector spray.

d. How to clean New Balance Shoes Made from Foam

Step #1: Take Out Laces and Insoles

Remove them to assist with thorough cleaning. You can clean laces separately by hand or replace them.

Step #2: Remove Loose Dirt

Begin by gently shaking the shoes to remove any loose dirt or debris. You can also tap them together to dislodge dirt from the foam.

Step #3: Create a Cleaning Solution

In a basin or bowl, mix a small amount of mild dish soap or laundry detergent with warm water to create a soapy solution. Make sure the soap is well-dissolved in the water.

Step #4: Clean the Foam Uppers

Dip a microfiber cloth or sponge into the soapy water and wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking wet. Then, wipe the foam upper of the shoes, paying attention to any soiled areas or stains. Be cautious not to saturate the foam, as it can take longer to dry.

Step #5: Clean the Outsoles

If the outsoles or rubber parts of the shoes are dirty, you can use a soft brush or toothbrush dipped in soapy water to scrub them. This will help remove dirt and grime from the grooves and treads.

Step #6: Rinse Thoroughly

Use a clean, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any soap residue from the foam and rubber parts.

Step #7: Dry the Shoes

After cleaning, gently pat the foam and rubber parts with clean towels or paper towels to remove excess water. Allow the shoes to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using heat sources or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process, as it can damage the foam.

e. How to clean New Balance Shoes Made from Rubber

Step #1: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Brush off the shoes to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris. You can also tap them together to dislodge dirt from the rubber components.

Step #2: Prepare the Cleaner

In a water container, mix a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with lukewarm water to create a soapy solution.

Step #3: Clean the Rubber Parts

Dip a soft brush or toothbrush into the soapy water and scrub the rubber components of the shoes. Focus on areas with visible dirt or scuffs.

Step #4: Wipe with a Cloth or Sponge

After scrubbing, use a sponge or cloth dipped in the soapy water to wipe away any remaining dirt and soap residue from the rubber. Make sure to clean the rubber parts thoroughly.

Step #5: Rinse

Rinse the sponge or cloth with clean water and use it to wipe off any soap residue from the rubber components.

Step #6: Dry the Shoes

Once you clean the shoes, pat the rubber components with clean towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Allow the shoes to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.

IV. Alternative way to clean New Balance Shoes

a. How to clean New Balance Shoes using Vinegar and Water Solution

Step #1: Prepare the Vinegar and Water Solution

In a small spray bottle, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. For example, you can use half a cup of water and half a cup of white vinegar.

Step #2: Remove Laces (Optional)

If you have time and want a thorough cleaning, you can remove the laces from your New Balance shoes. You can clean them separately by hand or replace them.

Step #3: Spray the Solution

Lightly spray the vinegar and water solution onto the surface of your New Balance shoes. Be sure to cover any dirty or soiled areas, including the upper, outsole, and insole.

Step #4: Wipe and Clean

Immediately after spraying, use a clean cloth or paper towels to gently wipe the shoe’s surface. The vinegar solution will help break down dirt and odors. Pay extra attention to areas with visible dirt or stains.

Step #5: Dry Naturally

Allow your New Balance shoes to air dry naturally. Do not use heat sources like a hairdryer or direct sunlight, as these can damage the materials. Simply let them dry at room temperature.

b. How to clean New Balance Shoes using Cornstarch (for oil stains)

Step #1: Bolt the Stain

As soon as you notice an oil stain on your New Balance shoes, try to blot up as much of the oil as possible using a clean cloth or paper towel. Gently press the cloth onto the stain without rubbing it, as rubbing can spread the oil.

Step #2: Apply Cornstarch

Sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch directly onto the oil stain. Make sure to cover the entire stained area with a thick layer of cornstarch.

Step #3: Let It Sit

Allow the cornstarch to sit on the stain for at least 15-20 minutes. During this time, the cornstarch will absorb the oil from the fabric.

Step #4: Brush or Shake Off Excess

After the cornstarch has had time to absorb the oil, use a brush or shake the shoe gently to remove the excess cornstarch, be careful not to spread the cornstarch to other parts of the shoe.

Step #5: Repeat if Necessary

If the oil stain is still visible, you can repeat steps 2 to 4 until the stain is fully absorbed and no longer visible.

Step #6: Wipe Clean

Once the oil stain is gone, use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe away any remaining cornstarch residue. Gently rub the area to ensure that all the cornstarch is removed.

c. How to clean New Balance Shoes using Magic Eraser Rubbing Alcohol

Step #1: Dampen the Magic Eraser

Start by dampening the Magic Eraser with a small amount of rubbing alcohol. You don’t want it to be soaking wet, just damp enough to activate the cleaning power of the eraser.

Step #2: Remove Laces

If you have a few extra minutes and want to clean more thoroughly, you can remove the laces from your New Balance shoes. You can clean them separately by hand or replace them.

Step #3: Gently Rub the Stains

Use the damp Magic Eraser to rub the scuffed or stained areas of your shoes gently. Apply light pressure and work in a circular motion. The Magic Eraser’s abrasive texture helps lift stains and scuffs.

Step #4: Wipe Clean

After scrubbing, use a clean cloth or paper towels to wipe away any residue left by the Magic Eraser. You should see the stains and scuffs disappear.

Step #5: Dry Naturally

Allow your New Balance shoes to air dry naturally. Do not use heat sources like a hairdryer or direct sunlight, as these can damage the materials. Simply let them dry at room temperature.

d. How to clean New Balance Shoes using Baby Wipes

Step #1: Remove Loose Dirt

Begin by shaking your New Balance shoes to remove any loose dirt or debris. This will make the cleaning process more effective.

Step #2: Take a Baby Wipe

Grab a baby wipe from the pack. Ensure that the baby wipes you use are unscented and alcohol-free to avoid potential damage to the shoe material.

Step #3: Wipe the Shoes

Use the baby wipes to wipe the entire surface of your New Balance shoes. Pay attention to areas with visible dirt, stains, or scuffs. The baby wipe will help lift and dissolve surface dirt and grime.

Step #4: Bolt Stains or Wet Areas

If you encounter fresh stains or areas with moisture (like mud or spilled liquid), gently blot them with a clean paper towel or another dry section of the baby wipe. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can push the stain further into the material.

Step #5: Allow to Air Dry

After cleaning, allow your New Balance shoes to air dry naturally. Do not use heat sources like a hairdryer or direct sunlight. Simply let them dry at room temperature.

V. Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s	Don’ts
Use a protective spray when you’re using your precious New Balance	Never leave your shoes under direct contact with the sunlight
Brush the upper part of your sneakers carefully	Don’t use a brush with rough bristles to prevent scratching
Clean your New Balance Regularly	Don’t let dirt and stains pile up on your shoes

VI. New Balance Shoecare

The path to keeping your New Balance in great shape doesn’t stop once you have managed to make your shoes look as good as new. It’ll be a continuous journey that requires dedication and effort.

Here are some tricks that you should do to preserve your shoes’ condition:

• Don’t keep them in a moist area.
• Clean them after usage. Do this regularly in order to avoid dirt and stains from piling up and becoming hard to clean. 
• Do not store your socks inside the shoe. This is essential as socks may produce a bad odor to your shoes. 
• Avoid using your New Balance in bad weather or on challenging terrain. 
• Make sure that you know the material used to make your shoes in order to be more careful when cleaning them. 

VII. Experts Tips to Prolong New Balance Shoe Life Span

Don’t leave this page yet, as there is some more knowledge that I can pass on to you. I hope that these tips can prove to be beneficial when you’re dealing with your New Balance shoes. After all, some of these tips are earned through past experiences!

• Avoid using a machine wash when it comes to dealing with your New Balance shoes. It might not be a guarantee that using a laundry machine might break your shoes, but you might not want to risk it, right?
• Rotate your shoes! Avoid wearing the same pair of New Balance shoes every day. Instead, rotate between two or more pairs of shoes to give them time to air out and recover from wear.
• Avoid wearing your shoes for non-athletic activities: While New Balance shoes are designed for athletic activities, wearing them for non-athletic activities can lead to premature wear and tear.
• No direct contact with the sunlight, please. If you want to dry your shoes, make sure to leave them in a room and in front of a fan. 
• Use strength only when you’re trying to clean your outsole. For the rest of your shoes, make sure to take your time. 
• When you’re using a detergent, make sure to use a dye-free detergent. You don’t want your shoes to have a new design created by the detergent, right?

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I put my new balance in the washing machine?

You can use a washing machine to clean your New Balance sneakers. However, as I have mentioned several times before, it isn’t a recommended method. Be mindful that your shoes’ material might not be strong enough to resist the might of a washing machine. If you’re still adamant about using the washing machine, then here goes.

However, let me remind you one more time that it’s highly likely that your New Balance shoes might get damaged. 

• Remove the laces from your New Balance shoes
• Put your laces in a small mesh bag and your New Balance shoes inside a different bag. This step is necessary in order to prevent your New Balance from getting tangled up and damaging other items that you’re washing.
• Put both bags inside the washing machine. Wait until the machine finishes its process. 
• Remove the shoes and laces from their respective bags. 
• Leave them until they’re completely dry before putting the laces back on, as well as storing them in their original box. 

IX. Summary

New Balance might not look as tasty as Nike or Adidas sneakers, but they sure still look good. Moreover, they feel very comfortable to wear. Therefore, New Balance shoes need to be taken good care of.

To maintain the appearance of New Balance shoes, it’s important to clean them properly. You can use a premium brush and mild detergent, followed by wiping them with a microfiber cloth and drying them in front of a fan.

However, avoid direct sunlight and using a standard brush on the upper part. Taking care of New Balance sneakers is similar to caring for other brands, and their comfort makes them worth the effort.