Clean sneakers by hand with a soft brush, mild soap and cool water, using products made for the material, and let them air dry away from direct sun. Washing machines and hot dryers weaken glue, warp foam and crack leather. Professional sneaker cleaning at Dima Laundry is AED 100 a pair.
What ruins shoes
- Washing machines: heat and tumbling break down glue and foam.
- Tumble dryers and direct sun: they warp soles and yellow white rubber.
- Bleach: it yellows and weakens materials.
- Household cleaners on suede: they leave water marks and stiffness.
Cleaning at home
- Remove laces and insoles and wash them separately.
- Brush off dry dirt first.
- Use a soft brush with mild soap and a little cool water on mesh and canvas.
- Stuff with paper and air dry in the shade.
Suede and leather
Suede needs a dry suede brush and eraser, not water. Leather needs a leather cleaner and conditioner. Both are worth sending to a professional when stained.
Professional prices
At Dima Laundry sneakers, sports shoes and formal shoes are AED 100 a pair, leather shoes and boots AED 120, slippers AED 80, and children's shoes AED 60.
Frequently asked questions
Can yellowed soles be whitened?
Light yellowing on rubber soles often improves with professional cleaning.
How long does shoe cleaning take?
Shoes need time to dry properly. The team confirms the ready time at drop off.
Related: Shoe cleaning, Bag cleaning