Do your little ones need their shoes cleaned? Whether they’re covered in mud or crayon, here is a simple guide to help you wash toddler shoes! It’s never been easier—just follow these steps, and you’ll have your darling’s sneakers looking as good as new.
If you’ve got toddlers, then you know that messes come with the territory — and so do a lot of dirty shoes. From mud puddles to spilled snacks, it can be easy for your toddler’s sneakers to become quickly covered in dirt and grime. That doesn’t mean they need to stay that way!
Our step-by-step guide will show you how to easily clean up those grimy little kicks — all while restoring their original look and feel. Read on for tips on how to wash toddler shoes like an expert!
Summary: Washing toddler shoes can be a daunting task, but it’s important to keep them clean and hygienic to ensure your child’s safety. To wash them, start by removing any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth, then gently wipe the shoes with a damp cloth and soapy water. Use a toothbrush or sponge to scrub the affected areas for tough stains. Rinse the shoes with clean water, then stuff them with paper towels to help them retain their shape while they dry.
What Will You Need?
To get started, you’ll need the following items:
- A bucket
- Mild laundry detergent
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristled brush
- Soft cloth or towel
- Cleaning rags (optional)
- Old toothbrush (optional)
Now you’re ready to get started on washing toddler shoes!
10 Easy Steps on How to Wash Toddler Shoes
Step 1. Prep the Shoes:
Remove laces and any dirt or debris from the exterior of the shoe. Fill a bucket with warm water and add one tablespoon of mild laundry detergent, such as Woolite Baby Detergent. Place shoes into the mixture and let them soak for 10 minutes.
Step 2. Scrub:
Using a soft-bristled brush (or an old toothbrush), gently scrub away any remaining dirt or stains on the fabric of your toddler’s shoes. You can use a soft cloth or towel to help scrub the soles for areas that are harder to reach. Be careful not to scrub too hard, or you may damage the shoe material. Once all of the dirt and debris have been removed, rinse off the shoes with clean, warm water.
Step 3. Remove Odors:
Add one tablespoon of white vinegar to your bucket and mix it into the water. Place the shoes back in the mixture and let them soak for 10 minutes. This will help remove any lingering odors from the shoe’s fabric. Rinse off the shoes once more using clean, warm water.
Step 4. Dry:
Place a cleaning rag under each shoe (optional) and lay them on a flat surface to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Don’t place them in the dryer or near any heat source, as this could cause damage to the material. You can also stuff the shoes with newspaper to help them retain their shape as they dry.
Step 5. Use a Cleaning Solution:
You can use a more powerful cleaning solution to remove any tough stains or odors. Mix together one cup of baking soda, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water. Dip a soft cloth or towel into the mixture and gently rub it onto the fabric of your toddler’s shoes. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse off the area with clean water.
Step 6. Apply a Protective Spray:
Once the shoes are dry, you can apply a protective spray such as Scotch guard to help protect them from future dirt and grime. Make sure to spray the shoes from a few inches away and in a well-ventilated area, as the spray can be toxic when inhaled. Otherwise, follow the directions on the spray can for the best results.
Step 7. Inspect:
Take a few moments to inspect your toddler’s shoes for any remaining dirt or stains, and repeat the steps above if necessary. You can also use a damp cloth to remove any excess dirt or dust. Once the shoes are completely dry, they are ready to wear!
Step 8. Store:
Once your toddler’s shoes are clean and dry, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help keep them looking their best for longer periods. Ensure that the laces are securely fastened and tucked away to avoid any accidental trips or falls.
Step 9. Clean Regularly:
It’s important to regularly clean your toddler’s shoes to keep them looking their best. Depending on how often your child wears the shoes, you may need to wash them every few weeks. If the shoes are only used occasionally, they may only need to be washed once a month or so.
Step 10. Enjoy:
Now sit back and enjoy how great those little kicks look! With these easy steps on how to wash toddler shoes, you can now get your mini’s kicks looking and smelling like new! Remember to check the condition of your toddler’s shoes regularly and clean them as needed. Happy cleaning!
By following these simple tips on wash toddler shoes, you can ensure that your little one’s feet are always clean, cozy, and comfortable — no matter how much they run around! So don’t forget to add this task to your regular cleaning routine and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your feet will be safe and healthy.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Always use lukewarm water and a gentle detergent when washing toddler shoes. Avoid using strong cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the material of the shoe and cause irritation to your toddler’s skin.
- If you’re feeling extra cautious, it is recommended that you wash toddler shoes by hand as opposed to in a washer machine. This will guarantee that no dirt and debris get caught up in any delicate shoe parts, like the tongue, seams, or eyelets.
- To keep your toddler’s shoes looking new for longer periods of time, be sure to stuff them with newspapers after each use. This will help maintain their shaper and prevent creases or wrinkles.
- Never put your toddler’s shoes in the dryer. Instead, let them air dry by placing them on a towel in an open space away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Once your toddler’s shoes are completely dry, it is important to give them a final check and brush off any dirt that may remain. This will help keep them looking brand new for longer.
Following these tips and tricks for washing toddler shoes will help ensure that your little one’s footwear stays clean and in great condition for a long time!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Don’t put toddler shoes in the washer or dryer. Washing machines and dryers can be too rough on delicate materials, causing them to wear out quickly.
- Don’t use hot water to wash toddler shoes. Hot water can cause colors to fade and materials to shrink or become brittle.
- Avoid using harsh detergents or chemical-based cleaners when washing toddler shoes, as these can damage delicate materials and reduce the life of the shoes.
- Don’t scrub too hard on stains or dirt when cleaning toddler shoes; rubbing too aggressively can weaken the fabric and cause it to wear down faster than normal.
- Avoid leaving wet toddler shoes in the sun, as this can cause fading and discoloration of materials over time. It’s best to let them air dry completely before storing them away for future use.
By following these simple tips and avoiding the pitfalls, you can keep your toddler’s shoes in great condition for a long time. Enjoy!
Is Toothpaste Good for Washing Shoes?
Using toothpaste to clean shoes is not recommended, as the abrasive ingredients can damage delicate materials and cause discoloration.
Toothpaste is also known to contain harsh additives that may irritate your toddler’s skin if it comes into direct contact with them. It is also possible for residue from the toothpaste to remain on the shoe, which could attract dirt and dust over time.
Use warm water and mild detergent when washing toddler shoes for the best results. This will ensure that your little one’s footwear stays in top condition without any potential risks!
Can I Use a Shoe Brush When Washing Toddler Shoes?
A shoe brush is an excellent tool for cleaning your toddler’s shoes. Using a brush will help to loosen dirt and debris from the surface, allowing for an easier and more thorough clean without damaging delicate materials.
Make sure you use soft bristles on a brush specifically designed for cleaning shoes to prevent any potential scratches or tears in your toddler’s footwear.
Overall, following these tips and tricks for washing toddler shoes will help ensure that your little one’s footwear stays clean and in great condition for a long time! Enjoy!
Conclusion
Overall, it’s important to clean and maintain your toddler’s shoes on a regular basis. Without proper care, their shoes can wear out quickly and look dull sooner rather than later. Fortunately, the process of washing and caring for these little feet is easier than you might think!
By following a few simple steps – from scrubbing dirt to conditioning leather – you can help ensure that your toddler’s dressier footwear looks its absolute best. Furthermore, with proper maintenance, they won’t need to purchase new shoes as often as they would otherwise, saving money and providing peace of mind in the long run.
Hopefully, the article on how to wash toddler shoes has given you a better understanding of cleaning and maintaining your little one’s footwear properly. With the right techniques and products, you can keep your shoes looking and feeling good for a long time! Happy cleaning!
