Since Xero Shoes came onto the scene a few years ago, they have gained a loyal following for their minimalist design and soft, flexible construction. Unfortunately, while many people love their Xero Shoes, others find that they don’t know how to clean them properly. In this blog post, we’ll share tips on how to clean Xero shoes and keep them looking new. Keep reading to learn more.
Summary: To clean Xero Shoes, remove the laces and insoles, then scrub the shoes using a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or detergent. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with water and allow them to air dry. Do not machine wash, bleach, or put the shoes in the dryer as it can damage the materials. For best results, clean your Xero Shoes regularly to keep them looking new.
What Causes Xero Shoes to Get Dirty?
There are a few different things that can cause your Xero Shoes to get dirty. The most common culprit is simply wearing and tear. If you wear your shoes on a daily basis, they are bound to get dirty. Another common cause of dirt and grime on Xero shoes is if you wear them in the rain or snow. This can leave them looking muddy and wet.
Additionally, taking your shoes on a hike or run may come back covered in dirt and dust. Lastly, storing your shoes in a damp or humid environment can develop mold or mildew. If you notice any of these things happening to your shoes, it’s time to give them a good cleaning.
What You’ll Need
To clean your Xero shoes, you’ll need:
- A soft-bristled brush
- A mild soap or detergent
- A bowl or bucket
- A clean, dry cloth
Step by Step Ways How to Clean Xero Shoes
1. Remove the Laces and Insole
The first step in cleaning your Xero shoes is to remove the laces and insole. This will give you better access to the inside of the shoe and allow you to clean it more thoroughly. To remove the insole, lift it out of the shoe. To remove the laces, loosen them and then pull them out through the eyelets.
2. Check for Damage and Loose Threads
Once the laces and insole are removed, take a look at the inside of the shoe for any damage or lose threads. If you see any, carefully trim them away with a pair of scissors. Try to avoid cutting the fabric of the shoe itself. You may need to replace the laces or insole if the damage is extensive.
3. Vacuum the Shoes
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any dirt, dust, or debris inside the shoe. Be sure to move the vacuum slowly so that you don’t miss any spots. First, vacuum the insole and then move on to the rest of the shoe.
Then, vacuum the outside of the shoe to remove any dirt or grime that has built up on the surface. If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, you can use a soft-bristled brush to remove the dirt instead.
4. Wash the Insole
Wash the insole in a bowl or bucket with some mild soap and water. If the insole is very dirty, you may need to scrub it with a soft-bristled brush to remove all the dirt. Once it is clean, rinse it off with some clean water and set it aside to dry.
5. Wash the Laces
Wash the laces in a mixture of water and mild soap. Do not use hot water, as this can damage the laces. Rinse the laces thoroughly and allow them to air dry. If the laces are very dirty, you may need to scrub them with a brush to remove all the dirt.
6. Brush Away Debris
If debris clings to the outside of the shoe, use a soft-bristled brush to remove it. Be sure to brush in the grain direction to avoid damaging the fabric. First, brush the sole of the shoe and then move on to the rest of the upper. Next, use a slightly damp cloth to wipe away any remaining dirt or debris. If the shoes are very dirty, you may need to repeat this step.
7. Wash the Outside of the Shoe
Wash the outside of the shoe with a mild soap and water solution. To do this, mix 1 teaspoon of mild soap with 1 cup of warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and scrub the outside of the shoe. First, focus on the dirtiest areas. Rinse the soap and water off with a clean cloth dipped in plain water. If your shoes are still dirty, repeat this process.
8. Use White Vinegar
To spot clean stains outside your Xero shoes, use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. First, test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the shoe to ensure it won’t damage the material.
Then, dip a clean, white cloth in the mixture and use it to blot the stain. Be sure to work from outside the stain toward the center to avoid spreading it. Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with clean water and allow the shoes to air dry.
9. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great way to remove stains from the outside of your shoes. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stained areas of your shoes and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, use a brush or cloth to scrub the shoes clean.
Finally, rinse the shoes with water and let them dry. If you have tough stains, you can also make a stronger paste by using 1 part baking soda to 2 parts water.
10. Use a Toothbrush
If you have tough stains or dirt on your shoes, use an old toothbrush to scrub them clean. First, wet the toothbrush’s bristles in water, and then add a little soap. Scrub the bristles against the stains on your shoes in a circular motion until they disappear. If you’re having trouble getting the stains out, you can also use a toothbrush to scrub them with a mixture of water and vinegar.
11. Wash the Shoes in the Washing Machine
If your shoes are made of machine-washable materials, you can wash them in the washing machine. First, remove the laces and insoles. Then, place the shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase to protect them during the washing cycle.
Start with a delicate cycle and cold water, and use a mild detergent. If the shoes are particularly dirty, you can wash them on a regular cycle with warm water. Always air dry your shoes. Never put them in the dryer.
12. Let Them Dry Completely
Once you’ve cleaned your shoes, let them dry completely before wearing them again. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the materials of your shoes and the humidity of your environment. You can hang them up to dry or set them out in the sun.
If your shoes are made of leather or another natural material, you can speed up the drying process by using a hair dryer on the lowest setting. Be sure to hold the hair dryer at least six inches away from the shoes to avoid damaging them.
How Often Should I Clean My Shoes?
It’s a good idea to clean your shoes regularly to prevent dirt and stains from building up. How often you need to clean them will depend on how often you wear them. If you wear your shoes every day, you’ll need to clean them at least once a week. If you only wear them occasionally, you can probably get away with cleaning them every few weeks or months.
Tips and Warnings on How to Clean Xero Shoes
Tips:
- Be sure to remove any dirt or debris from the shoes before cleaning. This will help ensure that the shoes are clean and free of any contaminants.
- Use mild soap and warm water to clean the shoes. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners as this can damage the shoes.
- Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again.
Warnings:
- Do not machine wash or dry Xero shoes as this can damage them.
- If you are unsure about how to clean your shoes, consult with a professional cleaner or the manufacturer.
- Never use bleach on Xero shoes.
- Be sure to clean your shoes on a regular basis to help extend their life.
- Inspect your shoes for any damage before cleaning them. If you notice any damage, discontinue use and contact Xero Shoes for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Wear Xero Shoes in Water?
Yes, you can wear Xero shoes in water! However, it is important to note that not all Xero shoes are waterproof. So, if you’re planning on wearing your Xero shoes in the water, it is best to take a look at the specific model you’re considering before making a purchase.
Can I Wash Xero Shoes in Washing Machine?
Xero Shoes are not meant to be washed in a washing machine, as the synthetic materials used in these shoes may become damaged. It is best to hand-wash Xero Shoes using a gentle soap and water solution or use the dry cleaning option if you need them cleaned quickly.
Should I Wear Socks With Minimalist Shoes?
You will need to experiment and find out what works best for your feet. Some people recommend wearing socks with minimalistic shoes to help cushion the foot from hard surfaces and keep it warm. Others believe that this practice is unnecessary and can actually cause further damage to the skin on your feet due to friction caused by the sock. Ultimately, you may want to try both options and see which ones work better for you.
Are Minimalist Shoes Good for Everyday Use?
While minimalist shoes tend to be marketed as being good for everyday use, this is not always the case. In fact, when you wear minimalist shoes every day, your feet can get extremely sore and swollen over time. This is due to the fact that they don’t provide enough support and cushioning.
Instead of wearing minimalist shoes all the time, it’s better to alternate between wearing them for special occasions (like a wedding or prom) and days when you are running around town or doing other activities that require more mobility and movement in your footwear. Additionally, make sure to give your feet a break after using minimalist shoes for an extended period of time by going about your normal daily routine in comfort-inducing sneakers or boots instead.
Conclusion
So, there you have everything you need to know about how to clean Xero shoes. Be sure to follow the tips and warnings outlined in this article to avoid damaging your shoes. With proper care and cleaning, your Xero shoes will last many years. We hope you found this guide helpful and that your shoes look as good as new for many future adventures. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us. Thanks for reading!
