Sneakers are more popular than ever! On the treadmill, in the office and even on official occasions – sports shoes can be seen everywhere. The variety of materials, colours and designs is limitless. There’s a perfect trainer for every outfit. The newly acquired kicks should remain a feast for the eyes for as long as possible, and nevertheless, we’re convinced that every shoe, no matter how rare, belongs on our feet and on the streets. That’s what they’re made for! We’ll give you some tips on how you can clean and care for your beloved sneakers without too much effort.
Only in exceptional circumstances do we agree with the common opinion that you can wash sneakers. Sneakers are real high-tech wonders when it comes to the production of the shoe. Very modern and varying materials are mixed so that the model fits the unique shape of the foot. That is a good enough reason to steer clear of water and harsh detergents. There are lots more tricks to keep sneakers watertight and, with the right care, clean.
Waterproofing sneakers – the first step in trainer care
“Can I keep these on?” You can, but maybe you shouldn’t. Before wearing outdoors, every new pair of sneakers should be waterproofed – ideally with a waterproofing product designed especially for the needs of the material and colour combinations. Applying two to three even sprays doesn’t just protect against moisture; it primarily prevents dirt penetrating deep into the material. Subsequent cleaning will be made significantly easier and more effective.
No matter whether you wear them for sport or leisure, trainers always exposed to dirt and moisture. Sneakers are usually made of a combination of fabric, plastic and sometimes leather. A sneaker waterproofing spray with highly effective care products offers shoes protection against dirt and water. Tiny nanostructures settle on the surface of the material and repel stains – similar to the lotus effect in nature. In addition, the modern waterproofing sprays from Collonil ensure that fabrics and leather remain flexible and nourished.
Clean sneaker soles
White sneaker soles look great and the appearance of a snow-white midsole on a new pair of sneakers turns the heads of more than just sneaker fans. Unfortunately, only so long as the spotless white hasn’t turned into a greyish beige. If that’s the case, you need to spend a bit more time cleaning the sneakers’ soles. But don’t worry, even very dirty soles look as good as new afterwards – provided that you use the right tools and cleaning products.
The midsole of a sneaker should be cleaned in three steps: Dry cleaning, nourishment and waterproofing. Rough dirt should first be removed using a brush and a soft gum dirt eraser. For the actual cleaning, you should apply the MIDSOLE CLEANER using a CLEANING BRUSH or a POLISHING CLOTH. After a short processing time, you can remove the product again, along with the dirt, using the brush or the cloth and then wipe with a slightly damp cloth.
Waterproofing spray stops the sneaker soles from getting darker through frequent use. The product protects the light rubber sole against sunrays too. This is because UV light in particular is the main ageing factor for white sneakers. And it’s not only the surface material on your trainers that needs attention and care.
Cleaning sneakers – outer material
Shoe shining shouldn’t just be reserved for special occasions; sneakers need cleaned all year round. Where dirt particles have penetrated fabrics, it’s often the case that only wet cleaning the whole shoe will help. Collonil carry nourishing CARBON CLEANING FOAM in their online shop. This will quickly clean and relieve all sneaker materials of dirt without too much effort. No matter whether smooth leather, coarse leather, fabric or synthetic, the trainer will be clean and nourished for a long time to come.
If stubborn marks, like oil-based stains, have penetrated the material, use the Collonil cleaning spray. It only takes a few sprays for grease or oil to be absorbed by the cleaner. It is best to remove the dirt with an absorbent cloth. No matter whether you are removing large marks or small stains, the material will remain breathable and flexible.
Last but not least, regular water proofing, e.g. using CARBON PROTECTING SPRAY, will keep your sneakers looking newer for longer.