cleaning sneakers, style, fashion Keep your coolest shoes looking (and smelling) as fresh as possible, Image: Pexels
You may have read somewhere (or even here) that there's a designer-sneaker uprising.
We're thinking that once you've got your hands on some sleek kicks, you might want to know how to care for them.
That's why we consulted sneakers cleaning expert Lolo Ndlovu, the founder of The Sneaker Shack, and a few other sneaker fiends about how to keep your coolest shoes looking (and smelling) as fresh as possible.
In 2015, Ndlovu identified a need within the local sneaker community - from collectors to active lifestyle individuals - to have their sneakers cleaned by trained professionals using established premium cleaning solutions.
Ndlovu says since he started the sneaker cleaning business after he identified a need within the sneaker community, across the board,from collectors to active lifestyle individuals to have their sneakers cleaned by trained professionals using established premium cleaning solutions.
The business has expanded their offering to include the full spectrum of footwear from sneakers, through to active and leisure shoes, boots, high heels, sandals, children’s shoes,and more.
He says, “the Sneaker Shack hopes to drive sustainability in the local market. 95% of discarded shoes make their way to landfills annually, across the world, with each pair of shoes taking on average 30 – 40 years to decompose; and some, taking up to 1,000 years.
“Every step you’ve taken in your once-loved shoes tells a story, and we are passionate about reviving your footwear to not only drive sustainability efforts, but to restore the happiness the old shoes once brought you.”
Here are 5 tips to help you take care of your beloved kicks:
The sole may detach from the mid shoe if they are washed in a hot water cycle and or washing machine. It can also cause the soles to warp.
The type of fabric of your shoes will determine the type of clean they need and a shoe laundry service with qualified technicians will be able to advise on the best products to use to treat inset stains, the upper, mid sole, inner sole, detailed undersole, laces and deodorising.
Whether shoe trees, shoe bags, shoe boxes or a shoe storage cupboard; storing your shoes correctly will help them keep their shape and avoid them from getting damaged by other shoes in your cupboard.
Did you know that keeping your shoes clean and protected does not only serve aesthetic purposes; it also keeps you safe from bacterial and fungal infections?
The best way to be consistent with protecting your sneakers is to use a protector spray and spray your shoes before you leave the house.
Do your shoes need a facelift? Instead of purchasing a new pair, a new set of laces – along with a good shoe clean - is bound to make your shoes look brand new. Looking for a pop of colour? Try contrasting laces to your shoe’s colour for a new look.
Not planning on wearing your shoes often? Perhaps its winter and your summer shoes are on a hiatus. Stuffing your shoes with newspaper helps to keep their shape, removes moisture and can help with odours.
According to Precious, Branch Manager at the Rosebank store and long-time employee of The Sneaker Shack, “The best way to take care of your shoes is through prevention of damage.
Whilst we do offer shoe restorations as a service with expert footwear technicians, looking after your shoes at home – and following the care labels – will ensure your kicks keep looking and feeling the same as the day you bought them.”
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