How to Clean Reps Sneakers: Keep Your Kicks Fresh

To clean reps sneakers properly, you need the right tools and technique for each material. Leather, nubuck, mesh, and knit all require different approaches. Here is a material-by-material guide to keeping your reps looking fresh.

What You Need

Basic Cleaning Kit

• Soft-bristle brush (an old toothbrush works)
• Microfiber cloth
• Mild dish soap or dedicated sneaker cleaner
• Warm water in a small bowl
• Crep Protect spray (optional but recommended)

For Tougher Jobs

• Jason Markk or Reshoevn8r cleaning solution
• Suede eraser for nubuck
• Magic eraser for midsole scuffs
• Leather conditioner for leather uppers

Cleaning by Material

Leather (Jordan 1, Jordan 4, Dunks)

1. Remove loose dirt with a dry brush

2. Mix warm water with a few drops of mild soap

3. Dip the brush, shake off excess water, and gently scrub in circular motions

4. Wipe away soap residue with a damp microfiber cloth

5. Air dry at room temperature - never use a hair dryer or direct heat

6. Apply leather conditioner once dry to maintain suppleness

Nubuck (Jordan 4 Black Cat, Jordan 4 Olive)

1. Brush off loose dirt with a nubuck-specific brush (brush in one direction)

2. For stains, use a suede eraser with gentle pressure

3. For deeper cleaning, use minimal water - nubuck hates soaking

4. Damp cloth with a tiny amount of cleaner, dab don not rub

5. Let air dry, then brush the nap back in the correct direction

Mesh and Knit (Yeezy 350, Air Max, Kobe 6)

1. Remove laces and insoles first

2. Use a soft brush with mild soap solution

3. Work in small sections, gentle pressure

4. Blot (don not rub) with a clean cloth to absorb moisture

5. Stuff with paper towels to hold shape while drying

6. Air dry for 24 hours minimum

Patent Leather (Jordan 11)

1. Wipe with a slightly damp microfiber cloth

2. For scuffs, use a tiny amount of glass cleaner on a cloth

3. Buff gently to restore shine

4. Store with tissue paper between pairs to prevent color transfer

Midsole and Outsole Cleaning

White Midsole Scuffs

Use a magic eraser (melamine sponge) with light pressure on dry midsole. This removes most scuffs and yellowing. Follow with a damp cloth wipe-down.

Icy Outsole Maintenance

Clear outsoles yellow over time - this is oxidation. To slow it down: store shoes in a cool, dark place. Avoid direct sunlight. Apply UV protectant spray before first wear. Once yellowed, it is very difficult to reverse.

Storage Tips to Prevent Damage

• Use shoe trees: Cedar shoe trees absorb moisture and maintain shape
• Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays cause yellowing and material degradation
• Do not stack: Stacking crushes the shape and transfers color
• Use silica packets: Place in boxes to absorb humidity
• Rotate your pairs: Giving shoes rest days extends their lifespan

Cleaning Reps FAQ

Can I put my reps in the washing machine?

No. The agitation damages construction, the heat warps glue, and the soaking ruins nubuck and leather. Always hand clean.

How often should I clean my reps?

Clean as needed. Light dirt brushes off after each wear. Deep clean every 2-4 weeks for daily wearers. Protect with spray before the first wear to make future cleaning easier.

Will cleaning damage my reps?

Not if you use the right technique for the material. Gentle brushing with mild soap is safe for all materials. Avoid harsh chemicals, hot water, and aggressive scrubbing.

How do I remove yellowing from white midsoles?

Use a magic eraser for surface yellowing. For deeper oxidation, try a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, apply to the midsole, wrap in plastic wrap, and leave in sunlight for 2-4 hours. Results vary.

Keep Your Reps Looking Their Best

Regular maintenance keeps your reps looking fresh for years. The right cleaning technique depends on the material - leather, nubuck, mesh, and patent leather each need their own approach.

Looking for your next pair to keep fresh? Browse the best-selling sneakers at Prime Reps.