Sneaky Clean: How to Wash Sneakers

Your sneakers can only take so much – those games of basketball or the 10K runs can really do a number on your shoes.  To get them nice and clean again, follow these easy instructions from eHow.Com.

1. Remove the laces and the inserts from the shoes.

2. Throw the laces in with a load of laundry, and then let them air-dry.

3. Mix up a solution of mild soap and water (for heavily soiled shoes, you might want to try a shoe cleaning solution).

4. With a soft-bristle brush and the soapy water or shoe cleaner, clean
   the inserts and the shoes, inside and out.
5. Rinse the shoes and the inserts well with clean water.
6. Wipe off the excess moisture with paper towels, and stuff the shoes with paper towels to soak up moisture and preserve their shape.
7. Place the shoes and the inserts on a waterproof surface in a
   well-ventilated room to dry, replacing the paper towels if necessary as
   they become soaked through.

8. Put the laces and the inserts back into the shoes once all the parts are completely dry.
9. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside the shoes to keep them smelling fresh!

Photo Credit: Bianka de Blok

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