How to Wash Cycling Shoes?

The Short Answer is:

To wash cycling shoes, first wipe off mud and debris with a damp cloth. Scrub the shoe's exterior using mild dish soap and a soft brush, including buckles and cleats. Rinse and remove remaining dirt. For heavily soiled shoes, soak insoles in soapy water. Use a brush or damp towel to clean the outside and undercarriage. Unbuckle the shoe, remove insoles, and clean hard-to-reach areas. Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent if needed. Combat odors with baking soda. Dry shoes by stuffing with newspaper in a well-ventilated area.

Cycling shoes are an essential piece of gear for any cyclist, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. They are designed to give the rider greater control and comfort while cycling, and they feature stiff soles that help transfer power from the legs to the pedals.

However, after a long ride, cycling shoes can become dirty and smelly. That’s why it’s important to know how to wash them properly. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to wash cycling shoes, so you can keep them in top condition and get the most out of your rides.

Preparing Your Cycling Shoes for Washing

Here are some steps to prepare your cycling shoes for washing:

1. Fill a small bucket with cool or warm water if you are outside, or work inside over a large sink. You DO NOT need enough water to fully submerge your shoes.
2. Wet a cloth or sponge and wipe away large chunks of mud or debris.
3. Add a small amount of mild dish soap to the cloth or sponge and scrub the outside of the shoe.
4. Remove the insole and rinse it with warm soapy water.
5. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with warm soapy water.
6. Begin air drying immediately after washing.
7. Use a cleaning spray to eliminate germs.

It is important to note that cycling shoes can be washed in a washing machine without risk of damage as long as they are washed using cold water on a gentle cycle. However, it is recommended to hand wash them to avoid any potential damage to the shoes.

Cleaning the Exterior of Cycling Shoes

Cleaning the exterior of cycling shoes is an important part of maintaining them. Here are some tips:

1. Wet a cloth or sponge and wipe away large chunks of mud or debris.
2. Add a small amount of mild dish soap to the cloth or sponge and scrub the outside of the shoe.
3. Use a soft brush to clean areas like buckles and cleats.
4. Rinse the cloth or sponge and wipe away the remaining dirt and soap.
5. Use a brush or damp towel to wipe away dirt, grime, and sweat on the outside and undercarriage of the shoe.
6. Unbuckle the shoe as much as possible and remove the insole to clean it.
7. If the shoes and cleats are extremely muddy, dunk them in soapy water.
8. Scrub the upper, outer side, and sole of the shoe with a soft brush.
9. Rinse well in freshwater.
10. Stuff with newspaper to absorb excess moisture (replace 2-3 times over the course of a day).

Cleaning the Interior and Insoles of Cycling Shoes

Cleaning the interior and insoles of cycling shoes is an important part of maintaining their condition and extending their lifespan. Here are some tips:

1. Remove the insoles and rinse with warm soapy water. The insoles collect most of the perspiration that emanates from your feet, so it’s important to clean them thoroughly.
2. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with warm soapy water.
3. Use a Magic Eraser sponge to wipe the surface of your shoe until clean. Wet your cloth or sponge and wipe away any residue from the Magic Eraser.
4. Use a cleaning spray to eliminate germs and odors.
5. Use shoe powder to aid the drying process.
6. Begin air drying immediately after cleaning.
7. Put your insoles back in and you’re ready for your next ride.

If your shoes are grimy and crusted with mud, remove the insoles, loosen up straps and buckles, and dunk them in a bucket of water mixed with a bit of soap. You can also mix 2 cups of water with one teaspoon of white vinegar to make a natural deodorizer.

Removing Odors from Cycling Shoes

Cycling shoes can develop a bad odor due to sweat and bacteria buildup. Here are some tips to remove the odor from cycling shoes:

1. Freeze the shoes: Place the shoes in a plastic bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal the bag. Then put the bagged shoes in the freezer.
2. Use baking soda: Pre-treat your shoes with baking soda prior to a cycle through the dishwasher or sprinkle it inside on top of the insole. You can also lift up the insole (if it’s removable) and sprinkle some under it as well.
3. Use vinegar: Spray your shoes with vinegar, which works wonders toward fighting bacteria in stinky shoes>
4. Place your shoes in the sun: The heat and light from the sun will kill the odor-producing bacteria, leaving your shoes smelling completely neutral.
5. Use bleach: Fill the sink with warm water, add bleach, sink the shoes and let them soak for a while, scrub with a dish brush or similar.

By following these tips, you can remove bad odors from your cycling shoes and keep them smelling fresh.

Drying and Air Circulation for Cycling Shoes

Drying and air circulation are important for cycling shoes to prevent moisture buildup and keep them in good condition. Here are some tips:

1. Stuff them with newspaper: Crumple newspaper and stuff it inside the shoes to absorb moisture.
2. Loosen the laces/straps: Loosen the laces or straps to allow air to circulate inside the shoes.
3. Air dry immediately: Begin air drying the shoes immediately after washing them to prevent moisture buildup.
4. Use paper towels: If you don’t have a newspaper, you can use paper towels to stuff inside the shoes.
5. Give them time: Allow enough time for the shoes to dry completely, which may take a few hours or overnight.
6. Use a boot dryer: If you have a boot dryer, you can use it to dry your cycling shoes.

Maintaining the Longevity of Cycling Shoes

Cycling shoes can last for several years if they are well-maintained. Here are some tips to maintain the longevity of cycling shoes:

1. Clean them regularly: Dirt and grime can accumulate on the shoes, which can cause damage over time. Clean them regularly with a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Store them properly: Store your cycling shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will prevent the materials from deteriorating and keep them in good condition.
3. Avoid walking on abrasive surfaces: Walking on rough surfaces can cause the soles of the shoes to wear out quickly. Try to avoid stepping on abrasive surfaces as much as possible.
4. Replace worn-out parts: If any part of the shoe, such as the sole or straps, becomes worn out, replace it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
5. Use protective covers: Consider using protective covers for your cycling shoes when you are not riding. This will help to protect them from dust and other elements that can cause damage.
6. Don’t over-tighten the straps: Over-tightening the straps can cause unnecessary stress on the shoe and lead to premature wear and tear. Tighten them just enough to keep your foot secure.

Overall, cycling shoes can last for several years if they are well-maintained and cared for properly. By following these tips, you can help to extend the lifespan of your cycling shoes and get more use out of them.

Conclusion: How to Wash Cycling Shoes?

In conclusion, washing your cycling shoes is an important part of maintaining their quality and longevity. By following the eight secret techniques outlined in this article, you can ensure that your shoes stay clean and fresh for many rides to come.

Remember to always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing and to avoid using harsh chemicals or high heat. With a little care and attention, your cycling shoes will continue to serve you well on all your biking adventures.