If you’ve invested in a pair of Skechers, you already know they’re built for comfort — but keeping them looking fresh takes a little know-how. Whether you’ve picked up a pair of memory foam trainers, sturdy work shoes, or lightweight slip-ons, knowing how to clean Skechers properly will extend their life and keep them performing at their best.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for your Skechers, from everyday maintenance to tackling stubborn stains and odours.
Why Cleaning Your Skechers Matters
Skechers use a range of materials — mesh, synthetic leather, suede, and fabric blends — and each responds differently to cleaning. Using the wrong method can damage the material, discolour the fabric, or break down the adhesive holding the sole together. Regular cleaning not only keeps your shoes looking sharp but also prevents bacteria build-up that causes unpleasant odours.
Most Skechers are not machine washable, despite what you might read elsewhere. The brand itself recommends hand cleaning for the majority of its styles. This is especially true for shoes with memory foam insoles, LED light-up features, or performance-specific technology.
What You’ll Need
- A soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- Lukewarm water (never hot)
- Mild soap or washing-up liquid
- A clean cloth or sponge
- Paper towels or newspaper for drying
- Baking soda (optional, for odour removal)
- White vinegar (optional, for stubborn stains)
How to Clean Skechers Trainers Step by Step
This method works for most Skechers trainers for women and men’s Skechers trainers alike. Here’s the process:
Step 1: Remove the insoles and laces. Take out the memory foam insoles and set them aside — these need cleaning separately. Remove the laces and soak them in warm soapy water.
Step 2: Brush off dry dirt. Use a soft brush to remove any loose mud, dust, or debris from the upper and sole. Pay attention to the grooves in the outsole where dirt tends to collect.
Step 3: Prepare your cleaning solution. Mix a small amount of mild soap with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or any solvent-based cleaners — these can strip the colour and weaken the materials.
Step 4: Clean the uppers. Dip your cloth or brush into the solution and gently scrub the shoe in circular motions. For mesh areas, use lighter pressure to avoid stretching. For synthetic leather sections, you can apply a little more pressure.
Step 5: Tackle the soles. Use the brush with soapy water to scrub the outsole. An old toothbrush works brilliantly for getting into the textured grip pattern.
Step 6: Wipe clean. Use a damp cloth with clean water to remove all soap residue. Leftover soap can attract more dirt, so be thorough here.
Step 7: Dry properly. Stuff the shoes with paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture and help them hold their shape. Leave them in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Never use a tumble dryer or radiator — the heat can warp the sole and damage the adhesive.
How to Clean Skechers Memory Foam Insoles
The memory foam insoles are one of Skechers’ best features, but they’re also the part most prone to odour. Here’s how to clean them without damaging the foam:
- Remove the insoles from the shoe
- Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over both sides
- Leave for at least 8 hours (overnight is ideal)
- Brush off the baking soda
- If needed, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap solution
- Air dry completely before putting them back in
For persistent odours, you can also try placing the insoles in a sealed bag with a few dryer sheets overnight. The key is never to submerge memory foam in water — it absorbs moisture like a sponge and takes forever to dry out, which can lead to mould.
Cleaning Different Skechers Materials
Mesh and knit uppers: These are the most common on Skechers trainers. Use a soft brush with soapy water and avoid scrubbing too hard. Mesh can pill or stretch if treated roughly. Blot rather than rub when removing stains.
Synthetic leather: Found on many men’s Skechers and some work styles. Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. You can use a magic eraser for scuff marks on white synthetic leather.
Suede and nubuck: These require specialist care. Use a suede brush to restore the nap and a suede eraser for marks. Never use water on suede — it can leave permanent staining. If your suede Skechers get wet, let them dry naturally and then brush.
Canvas: Canvas Skechers can handle slightly more water than other materials. A baking soda paste (mixed with water to a thick consistency) works well for spot-cleaning canvas uppers.
Caring for Skechers Work Shoes
If you wear Skechers work shoes, they’ll need more frequent attention. Work environments expose shoes to grease, chemicals, and heavy soiling that everyday cleaning methods may not fully address.
For grease stains, apply a small amount of cornstarch to the affected area, leave it for a few hours to absorb the oil, then brush it off before cleaning as normal. For women’s Skechers used in healthcare or hospitality, wiping down with antibacterial wipes at the end of each shift can prevent bacterial build-up between deeper cleans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to damage your Skechers during cleaning. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Machine washing: Most Skechers should not go in the washing machine. The agitation can damage the glue, warp the soles, and ruin memory foam insoles.
- Using hot water: Heat breaks down adhesives and can shrink certain materials. Always use lukewarm or cold water.
- Direct heat drying: Radiators, tumble dryers, and direct sunlight will warp your shoes. Air dry only.
- Bleach or harsh chemicals: These strip colour and weaken materials. Stick to mild soap.
- Ignoring the soles: Dirty soles transfer grime back to clean uppers. Always clean the outsole first.
How Often Should You Clean Your Skechers?
As a general rule, give your Skechers a light wipe-down after every few wears, especially if you’ve been walking in wet or muddy conditions. A deeper clean every two to four weeks will keep them in top condition. Clean the insoles separately at least once a month, or more frequently if you wear them without socks.
For Skechers boots, autumn and winter will naturally mean more frequent cleaning due to rain, mud, and salt on roads. After each wet-weather outing, let them dry fully before storing.
Keeping Your Skechers Fresh Between Cleans
Prevention is always easier than cure. A few simple habits will keep your Skechers fresher for longer:
- Rotate between two or more pairs to give each pair time to air out
- Use cedar shoe trees or silica gel packets to absorb moisture
- Store in a cool, dry place — not in a gym bag or car boot
- Apply a fabric protector spray to mesh and canvas styles before first wear
- Always wear socks to reduce sweat absorption into the insole
Taking care of your Skechers doesn’t take much effort, but it makes a real difference to how long they last and how good they look. Whether you’ve got a pair of everyday trainers or heavy-duty work shoes, a regular cleaning routine will keep them performing at their best. Ready to explore our full Skechers collection? Browse the latest styles at Shuperb.
