Sneaker Tips & Cleaning Advice
Discover practical tips on shoe cleaning, sneaker care, suede cleaning, leather shoe care, and everything you need to know to keep your shoes looking good for longer. Our blogs are based on practical experience from thousands of professional cleanings.
Why you shouldn't put your shoes in the washing machine
It seems like a quick and easy solution: throwing your shoes in the washing machine to clean them. Unfortunately, this can do more harm than good.
Read moreabout Why you shouldn't put your shoes in the washing machine
How to extend the lifespan of your sneakers?
Good sneakers are often a significant investment. With proper maintenance, they will stay looking good longer and you'll prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Common Mistakes When Cleaning Shoes
Many people unknowingly make mistakes when cleaning their shoes. With the right approach, you can prevent damage and keep your shoes looking good for longer.
Frequently asked questions
Does the StepFresh Essential Kit work on all materials?
Yes. The StepFresh Essential Kit is suitable for almost all materials, including leather, suede, coloured suede, nubuck, coloured nubuck, mesh, canvas, and textiles. This makes the kit suitable for most sneakers and shoes.
For coloured suede and coloured nubuck, we advise always testing the product on a small, inconspicuous area first. Some dyes may bleed when they come into contact with moisture. Testing beforehand will prevent surprises and ensure the material reacts well.
Will all stains and dirt be removed?
Not always. The result depends on the material, the age of the shoe, and the type of dirt. Most everyday dirt can be removed well, but some stubborn stains or old dirt may require multiple treatments and cannot always be completely removed.
For the best results, lightly moisten the brush, use enough foam, and let the shoe dry completely before repeating the treatment, if necessary.
Can I damage my shoes with the StepFresh Essential Kit?
No, when used according to the instructions, the StepFresh Essential Kit is safe for most materials.
Always dampen the brush lightly and, for coloured suede and coloured nubuck, always test first on a small, inconspicuous area.
How do I use the StepFresh Essential Kit?
The StepFresh Essential Kit is easy to use.
- Brush dry dirt off the shoe.
- Lightly dampen the brush.
- Apply the foam and clean the shoe with the brush.
- Wipe the shoe dry with the microfiber cloth.
Also check our How to use page and instruction video for a detailed step-by-step explanation.
Should I wet the brush?
Yes. For the best result, always slightly moisten the brush before applying the foam. This will help the foam spread better over the surface and allow you to remove dirt more effectively.
How long does it take to clean one pair of shoes?
On average, cleaning one pair of shoes takes approximately 5 minutes. The exact time depends on the material and the degree of soiling.
How many cleanings do I get from one bottle?
One bottle of StepFresh Foam Cleaner can perform an average of 25 or more cleanings. The exact number depends on the amount of foam you use per cleaning and how dirty the shoes are.
Should I let my shoes dry between treatments?
Yes. For best results, we recommend allowing the shoes to air dry completely before performing a second treatment. This will help you better assess how much dirt has been removed and prevent the material from becoming unnecessarily wet.
Always allow shoes to air dry naturally, for example indoors or outdoors. Do not use a dryer, hairdryer, or direct heat source, as this can damage or discolour the material.
Does the kit also work on suede and nubuck?
Yes. The StepFresh Essential Kit is suitable for suede, coloured suede, nubuck, and coloured nubuck.
For coloured suede and coloured nubuck, we recommend always testing the product on a small, inconspicuous area first, as some dyes may bleed.
Always use a slightly damp brush and work gently over the material.
Can I also use the kit for caps and bags?
Yes. The StepFresh Essential Kit can also be used for many caps and bags made of suitable materials. For delicate or coloured materials, always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Does the kit also work on white shoes and white soles?
Yes. The StepFresh Essential Kit is suitable for cleaning white shoes and white soles. For stubborn dirt, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve maximum results.
What if stubborn stains don't disappear?
Some old or stubborn stains cannot be completely removed. Have you performed the treatment multiple times and the dirt remains visible? Then you can make use of our professional shoe cleaning service. With professional equipment and techniques, we can often achieve a better result.
Can I also clean the laces?
Yes. Remove the laces from the shoes and clean them separately with the StepFresh Foam Cleaner and a little water. Rub the laces clean and then let them dry completely before reinserting them.
Does the StepFresh Essential Kit contain harsh chemicals?
No. The StepFresh Essential Kit does not contain harsh chemicals and is designed to safely and effectively clean shoes when following the instructions for use.
What if I am not satisfied with the result?
We are always open to feedback and happy to help. Do you have any questions about using the StepFresh Essential Kit or are you not satisfied with the result? Feel free to contact us. Together, we'll gladly look for a suitable solution.
Can I use the StepFresh Essential Kit on designer shoes?
Yes. The StepFresh Essential Kit is suitable for almost all designer shoes and sneakers from various brands. Whether it's everyday sneakers or exclusive designer shoes, the kit is designed for materials such as leather, suede, nubuck, mesh, and textile.
For colored suede and colored nubuck, we always recommend performing a small test on an inconspicuous area first.
Is it better to hand-clean my shoes or wash them in a washing machine?
We always advise cleaning shoes by hand. Many shoes are made from materials such as suede, leather, nubuck, and mesh, which can be damaged in the washing machine.
With the StepFresh Essential Kit, you can clean your shoes safely and in a controlled manner, significantly reducing the risk of damage, adhesive coming loose, discolouration, or deformation. Hand cleaning is therefore the best choice to keep your shoes looking good and well-maintained for longer.