When left uncleaned, climbing shoes don’t just smell bad. They wear out faster, lose grip, and can even irritate your feet. But here's the surprising part: most climbers never learn how to properly clean their shoes.

Whether your sole has become unrecognizable or the stink is scaring off your climbing partners, it’s time to change that. A few simple cleaning steps can help your shoes last longer, perform better, and smell way fresher. Let’s break down how to clean your climbing shoes the traditional way and the SneakERASERS way. Let’s get started!

Why Climbing Shoes Get So Dirty (and Smelly)

Climbing shoes go through a lot. Sweat, chalk, skin cells, and moisture team up inside your shoes to create the perfect storm for bacteria and odor. That’s why it’s important to clean your shoes regularly. Whether you're indoors at a dusty gym or outdoors tackling muddy routes, your shoes collect grime fast, and it doesn’t take long for that buildup to affect performance. 

What starts as a bit of funk can lead to breakdowns in material and rubber stickiness if left unchecked. So, staying ahead of the mess means better friction on footholds and fewer nose-pinching moments.

Can You Wash Climbing Shoes?

You might think the washing machine is the easy fix. It’s not. Most climbing shoe manufacturers strongly advise against machine washing. Hot water and aggressive spinning can damage adhesives, rubber, and the overall fit.

Instead, stick with gentle hand cleaning. It takes a few extra minutes, but it helps maintain the structure, stickiness, and comfort you need for your next session. 

Traditional Methods for Cleaning Climbing Shoes

First, let’s take a look at the traditional way to clean climbing shoes. This takes longer than using a SneakERASERS kit, but it works if you have the supplies. 

Step 1: Grab the Basics

Here’s what you need:

• A soft brush (like an old toothbrush)

• Mild soap (gentle dish or hand soap)

• A small bowl of warm water (around 80–90°F)

• A clean cloth

• Paper towels or a newspaper for drying

Skip the bleach and harsh detergents. They can ruin your shoes’ rubber and materials.

Step 2: Brush Off Dirt

Use the dry brush to gently swipe away surface dirt and chalk, especially along the rand and sole. Circular motions work well, and you don’t need much pressure. This step prevents dirt from grinding into the fabric once water is involved.

These cleaning methods can also be applied to other types of athletic shoes, such as tennis shoes, which are prone to similar issues with dirt and odor.

Step 3: Freshen Up the Interior

Mix mild soap with warm water and dip your brush in, shaking off the excess. Gently scrub the inside of the shoe, especially the footbed. This is where bacteria thrive, so give it extra attention. 

You can also soak the shoe in a detergent solution for an easier, more hands-off solution. But if you want to control the cleaning process, we recommend using a brush to gently clean the interior. 

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Right Way

Dampen a cloth with clean water and wipe out the soap. Then, stuff the shoes with newspaper to help maintain their shape and draw out moisture. Let them dry in a well-ventilated spot, away from direct sunlight or heat. Drying may take up to 48 hours, depending on humidity.

A Quicker Way: Clean with SneakERASERS

Now, to SneakERASERS. If you have thirty seconds and one of our pre-moistened singles, you can clean your climbing shoes without missing a beat. 

Why SneakERASERS Are Perfect for Climbing Shoes

Our dual-layer shoe erasers are designed to be gentle on sensitive materials while packing the cleaning power climbers need. Here’s what you can expect in a single SneakERASER:

• White side: Perfect for regular touch-ups. It safely lifts away chalk, dirt, and smudges.

• Orange side: Deals with more sensitive surfaces and cleans any remaining marks after you’re done with the white side

• Pre-moistened magic: Just the right amount of cleaning solution to refresh shoes without soaking them. Add water to fully activate. 

How to Use SneakERASERS on Climbing Shoes

1. Start with the white side: Gently swipe the soles and the rand in circular motions. It's great for quick weekly upkeep after spending time outdoors. 

2. Flip to the orange side: The orange side of our singlets deals with whatever is left over, but the white side should take care of most of the mess. 

3. Let them air dry: No rinsing needed. Just let the shoes breathe for a few minutes, and they’re good to go.

4. Use our SOAK to deal with the interior and laces: To get rid of the dirt on your laces (and the grit on your interior), dunk your climbing shoes in a solution using our SneakERASERS SOAK and some water. Leave anywhere between two hours to overnight and let them air dry.

Pro tip: “Swipe, don’t scrub.” A light touch does the trick and helps your erasers last longer.

Clean Shoes, Even On-the-Go

SneakERASERS Singles are clutch when you’re done climbing and your shoes have accumulated more dirt and grime than you’d like. Stash one in your chalk bag or pack and swipe off dust, chalk, or grime between routes.

Portable and pre-moistened, they’re a lifesaver during long gym days or weekend climbing trips. Just one swipe can bring back the grip that helps you stick to those micro footholds.

Fun fact: Around 90% of advanced climbers (V7+ or 5.12 and up) clean their shoes between attempts. While others are wiping with their pants or a dirty towel, you’ll have a clean, effective solution at your fingertips.

Easy Ways to Prevent Funk Before It Starts

Air Them Out

As soon as you’re done climbing, untie your shoes, pull the tongue forward, and let them breathe. Trapping sweat and heat inside a gym bag is a recipe for long-lasting odor.

Mesh shoe bags are great for airflow on the go. And if you’re climbing multiple times a week, alternating between two pairs can help each one dry more completely.

Keep Your Feet Fresh

Clean shoes start with clean feet. Wash your feet before putting on climbing shoes, and make sure to swap out socks every time you finish a climb.  Shoes that absorb sweat, like running shoes, require regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth. These small steps keep bacteria from transferring straight into your shoes.

Not a fan of socks? Consider trying ultra-thin, moisture-wicking climbing socks. They reduce odor without sacrificing sensitivity. Your climbing partners will thank you.

Know When It’s Time for a Resole (or Retirement)

Even the cleanest shoes won’t last forever. If you notice worn-out rubber, thinning soles, or separation between the rand and upper, it’s time to think about a resole.

The upside: Keeping your shoes clean makes it easier to catch wear patterns early. A fresh resole costs way less than replacing your shoes and gives them a whole new life.

Give Your Shoes the Care They Deserve

You don’t need fancy kits, a washing machine, or hours of effort. Just a little knowledge, a few simple habits, and a SneakERASERS or two.

From tackling gym grime to climbing confidently with fresh shoes, the easiest way to care for your gear is to stay consistent. Because when your shoes feel better, you climb better. And that’s a win worth swiping for.