How often should we run the quick inspection routine on our sneakers?

We recommend a two-minute inspection weekly if you wear a pair regularly - check the upper for scuffs or loose stitching, the soles for separation or deep tread wear, and eyelets, laces and insoles for damage or odour.

How should we clean canvas and mesh sneakers without damaging glued areas?

Remove laces and insoles, brush out loose dirt, mix about one teaspoon of gentle detergent into 500 ml warm water and gently scrub with a cloth or soft brush, then rinse with a damp cloth and air-dry at room temperature away from direct sun.

What steps can we take at home to fix a separated sole?

Clean and lightly roughen both surfaces, apply a thin, even layer of flexible shoe adhesive, press the sole and upper together and clamp overnight with heavy books or rubber bands; if separation is large or along the toe-box, we should see a cobbler.

How to care and repair sneakers: practical steps for

Why proactive sneaker care pays off

We treat our sneakers like everyday tools - they take us to work, school, the park and the weekend market. A small amount of regular care saves money and keeps favourites wearable longer. This guide focuses on common materials (canvas, leather, mesh and rubber soles), easy cleaning methods you can do at home, and simple repairs that stop small problems becoming costly replacements.

Quick inspection routine (2 minutes)

Before cleaning or repairing, check these points so you know what needs doing:

Upper material: look for scuffs, tears, or loose stitching.
Soles: check for separation, deep wear on the tread, or thinned areas.
Eyelets and laces: metal eyelets may be bent; laces often just need replacing.
Insoles: smell and padding - replace if flattened or odorous.

What you’ll need at home

You don’t need specialist tools for most jobs. Keep a small sneaker care kit: soft brush (toothbrush works), microfibre cloth, gentle detergent or pH-neutral soap, white vinegar, baking soda, suede eraser (for suede), shoe glue (flexible contact adhesive), and simple replacement laces or insoles. If you prefer to buy replacement parts or specific shoe care products, our Sneakers category has options to compare and refresh your collection.

Cleaning by material - step-by-step

Match the method to the upper: harsh cleaning will damage leather or suede, while too-little cleaning leaves canvas stained.

Canvas and mesh

Remove laces and insoles; shake out loose dirt. Hand-wash laces in warm soapy water.
Use a soft brush to knock loose dirt from the sole and upper.
Mix one teaspoon of gentle detergent into 500 ml warm water. Dip a cloth or brush and scrub gently. Avoid soaking glued areas.
Rinse with a clean damp cloth and air-dry at room temperature away from direct sun to avoid shrinking.

Leather (smooth and nubuck)

Wipe with a slightly damp microfibre cloth to remove dust; for marks use a specialised leather cleaner.
Condition smooth leather every few months with a small amount of leather cream to prevent cracking.
For nubuck/suede, use a suede brush and eraser - avoid water which can leave dark patches.

Soles and midsole whitening

Scrub rubber soles with a stiff brush and a paste of baking soda and water for stubborn marks.
For midsole yellowing, try a gentle commercial midsole cleaner or a dilute hydrogen peroxide treatment - test a small area first and follow safety instructions.

Deodorise and dry

Sprinkle baking soda inside and leave overnight to absorb moisture and smells. Replace insoles if padding is flat or odour persists - simple insoles usually cost R100-R300, depending on cushioning and brand.

When to seek professional repair

Small scuffs and loose stitching we can handle at home. If a sole is badly worn through, or a major seam has come apart, a cobbler can often re-sole or re-stitch for less than a full replacement. For brand or model-specific parts, our Brands hub helps you find authorised accessories and replacement options.

Practical repairs you can do yourself

Below are straightforward repairs that extend wear without specialist tools. Tackle them in the order given - stop and reassess if the repair is larger than expected.

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Fix: separated sole

Clean the join, roughen both surfaces lightly with sandpaper, apply a flexible shoe glue (apply thin, even layers), press the sole and upper together, and clamp with heavy books or use rubber bands overnight. Most household adhesives aren’t suitable - choose a purpose-made flexible shoe adhesive and follow drying time. If the separation is large or along the toe-box, visit a cobbler.

Fix: small tears or holes

Canvas: patch from the inside with a small canvas scrap and fabric glue; stitch if you can for added strength.
Leather: for tiny tears, leather adhesive plus a leather patch from the inside will do; larger rips need professional repair.

Fix: worn eyelets and broken laces

Replace laces to refresh fit and appearance - we recommend keeping a neutral pair and a spare set for outdoor work. If metal eyelets are loose, a quick eylet-replacement kit or a cobbler’s small re-setting job will restore structure.

Fix: flattened insoles and poor cushioning

Swap insoles for supportive alternatives. There are budget options near R100 and high-performance orthotic options around R500-R1 200. If you need posture or medical support, consult a podiatrist rather than relying on generic insoles. For shopping, check our Spares & Accessories selection for common replacement parts and refresh items.

Small restorations that change how a pair performs

Add a thin heel pad to stop slippage and extend the life of the heel cup.
Use antiglide spray for wet-season traction on smooth leather soles - test on an inconspicuous area first.

Rule of thumb: If the repair costs more than two-thirds of a good new pair of similar sneakers, consider replacing - especially when midsole cushioning is lost. Weigh sentimental value and whether the pair meets your comfort needs.

Maintenance habits that make sneakers last

A few habits stretch wear-life significantly:

Rotate pairs - alternating shoes lets materials rest and dry between wears.
Avoid heavy rain and mud where possible; if shoes get soaked, stuff them with newspaper and let them dry slowly indoors.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sun to prevent leather drying or canvas fading.
Clean small stains promptly rather than waiting; fresh stains lift easier.

A note for South African seasons and lifestyle

Summer dust and winter mud are common. For Durban- or Cape Town-style humidity, ensure shoes dry thoroughly to prevent mould. For braai weekends or outdoor markets, keep a small brush and cloth in your bag for quick spot-cleaning.

Where to go next

If a pair needs replacement or you want to buy supportive insoles, browse our Sneakers range or visit the Brands hub to find authorised accessories and parts. We curate simple choices so you can pick what fits your routine and budget.

Sources

Consumer Reports - How to clean and care for your shoes
BBC - Practical care tips for leather and suede
Harvard Health - Choosing supportive footwear

How to care and repair sneakers: practical steps for long-lasting shoes

Inspect before cleaning

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Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Match cleaning to material

DIY repairs first

Why proactive sneaker care pays off

Quick inspection routine (2 minutes)

What you’ll need at home

Cleaning by material - step-by-step

Canvas and mesh

Leather (smooth and nubuck)

Soles and midsole whitening

Deodorise and dry

When to seek professional repair

Practical repairs you can do yourself

Fix: separated sole

Fix: small tears or holes

Fix: worn eyelets and broken laces

Fix: flattened insoles and poor cushioning

Small restorations that change how a pair performs

Maintenance habits that make sneakers last

A note for South African seasons and lifestyle

Where to go next

Sources

Mmaphefo

Ukhona

Sambesiwe

Kamo

"Micayla"

Sabelo

Meagan

Bat

Anotha

Tshepiso

Elisa

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Nkensane