You spot those perfect designer heels at the thrift store for $15, originally $200. Your heart races, but then doubt creeps in: What if they're gross inside? What germs are lurking in there?

Here's the truth: buying used shoes is brilliant for your wallet and the planet, but wearing them without proper sanitizing is asking for trouble. 

Ready to transform those questionable secondhand finds into fresh, safe-to-wear favorites?

Whether you’re restoring thrift-store gems or giving second hand shoes a fresh start, the process is simple and rewarding.

This complete guide will show you exactly how to deep-clean any used shoe, no matter what it's made of. With the right approach and SneakERASERS products, you can confidently restore thrift store treasures to look and feel like new.

Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you start cleaning those used shoes, you'll need to gather cleaning supplies.

Whether you use something more traditional (which takes more time) or a faster solution like SneakERASERS, using the right tools to clean those used shoes will make all the difference.

Traditional Cleaning Supplies

• Soft-Bristled Brush

• Old Toothbrush

• Microfiber Cloths

• Mild Dish Soap + Water

• White Vinegar

• Rubbing Alcohol

• Leather Conditioner

• Rubber Gloves & Good Ventilation

SneakERASERS Products for Efficient Cleaning

• SneakERASERS dual-layered sponges (perfect for quick, effortless cleaning)

• Pre-Moistened Singles (ideal for on-the-go touch-ups)

• SneakERASERS SOAK (specially designed for porous materials like mesh and fabric)

The beauty of SneakERASERS is that you don't need harsh chemicals or complicated kits.

These innovative products provide instant, visible results that make cleaning your shoes satisfying rather than a chore. Unlike traditional soap and water methods that can be messy and time-consuming,

Our blog comparison titled SneakERASERS vs. Soap & Water shows why these products offer superior convenience and effectiveness for all your footwear cleaning needs.

Pre-Cleaning: Disinfect Your Shoes

Disinfecting used shoes isn't optional , it's the most important step for your health. Pathogens can survive for months inside shoes, simply waiting for warm, moist feet to provide a new host.

Effective Ways to Disinfect Used Shoes

Several reliable options exist for eliminating these unwanted hitchhikers.

A simple 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle works effectively and is safe for most materials.

Rubbing alcohol at 70% concentration is even more powerful , spray it inside the shoes and allow it to sit for a minimum of 10 minutes.

Commercial shoe sanitizer sprays are convenient and designed specifically for footwear, while UV sanitizing devices offer a chemical-free option that's especially suitable for delicate materials.

Whatever method you choose, ensure you're treating both the inside and outside of the shoes for complete protection.

How to Clean Used Shoes with SneakERASERS: Step-by-Step Guide

Want to make those shoes clean for good (while making sure they stay clean with less than 30 seconds of work)? Here's how to clean used shoes with SneakERASERS. 

Step 1: Assess and Prepare Your Shoes

Begin by pulling out the laces and dropping them into a bowl with SneakERASERS SOAK solution , they'll get clean while you work on the rest of the shoe.

Take a comprehensive look at your shoes and make a mental note of what needs the most attention.

The soles are usually the dirtiest, the midsoles might have scuff marks, and the upper parts could have stains or discoloration.

This easy step-by-step method is perfect for anyone who wants to know how to clean used shoes efficiently without damaging the material.

Having your SneakERASERS products within reach makes the whole process smoother, so gather your SneakERASERS sponges and SOAK solution before you begin.

Step 2: Clean Soles and Midsoles with SneakERASERS

Now comes the satisfying part. Watch years of accumulated dirt disappear with SneakERASERS dual-layered sponges.

This is where you'll experience that instant gratification that makes cleaning feel rewarding rather than tedious.

Use the white side first for regular dirt and everyday scuffs, working with gentle swiping motions to lift away the buildup.

Remember, it's swipe, don't scrub. Light pressure helps your sponges last longer while still delivering impressive results.

When you hit tougher stains or need to clean delicate surfaces, flip to the orange side, which is specially designed to tackle sensitive surfaces without damaging the material.

As you work, you'll notice the sponge gradually wearing away like a pencil eraser, which means it's doing its job effectively.

Step 3: Address Fabric and Mesh Areas

For the fabric and mesh parts of your shoes, SneakERASERS SOAK is your secret weapon.

Mix the solution according to the package directions and use it to gently clean these softer materials with a soft brush or cloth.

Mesh areas need extra care since they can tear easily, so work gently but thoroughly to remove dirt trapped in the tiny holes.

After cleaning, rinse these areas well with clean water to remove all the cleaning solution and loosened dirt.

Step 4: Final Touches and Detailing

Keep one of our pre-moistened singles on you. They are perfect for getting into all those tight spots you might have missed.

These convenient, portable cleaners allow you to tackle details anywhere, anytime. Use them to clean along the seams where the sole meets the upper, around eyelets, and in any grooves or crevices.

These singles are also great for addressing any stubborn spots that need a little extra attention.

Take your time with this step , it's these finishing touches that make the difference between shoes that look okay and shoes that look like they just came from the store.

What About Cleaning Leather Shoes the Traditional Way?

Leather requires special care because it's essentially animal skin that can dry out and crack if handled improperly.

Begin with a mild soap and water solution. Aim for precisely 2-3 drops of dish soap in one cup of water will suffice.

Apply with a damp cloth to gently sanitize the leather, but avoid soaking it or allowing water to remain on the surface longer than 30 seconds.

Work in 2-inch sections and wipe away soap residue immediately with a clean, damp cloth.

Once the leather is completely dry (approximately 2-4 hours), apply a leather conditioner to maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.

Remember that while SneakERASERS products are excellent for cleaning the non-porous parts of leather shoes, you'll still need a separate leather conditioner for this final step to keep your leather looking and feeling supple.

The same gentle approach and conditioning requirements apply with specialized techniques outlined in our blog on cleaning white leather shoes , which require extra attention to prevent discoloration.

Restoring Canvas and Fabric Shoes

Canvas and fabric shoes , especially second-hand shoes , are much more forgiving than leather and can handle more aggressive restoration.

Sturdy canvas sneakers (those with reinforced stitching and thick material) can often go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and 1/4 cup mild detergent, but hand washing provides more control and is safer for shoes with glued-on parts.

For persistent stains, create a paste with 3 tablespoons baking soda and 1 tablespoon water, rub it into the stain using circular motions, and allow it to sit for exactly 30 minutes before gently swiping with medium pressure.

Always rinse thoroughly with clean water and stuff the shoes with newspaper or towels to help them maintain their shape while drying. 

Refreshing Synthetic and Athletic Shoes

Most modern athletic shoes are constructed from synthetic materials that are designed to be durable and easy to restore.

These materials can usually handle more cleaning than leather but less soaking than canvas, so aim for a moderate approach. 

Apply gentle swiping motions with light-to-medium pressure during restoration to avoid scratching the surface, and pay special attention to scuff marks, which often disappear easier than expected with the right technique.

The key with synthetic shoes is maintaining their flexibility , harsh chemicals or excessive heat can make them stiff and uncomfortable. 

Interior Cleaning and Odor Elimination

If pre-owned shoes have removable insoles, this advantage allows access to often the most contaminated part of the shoe and the easiest to sanitize thoroughly.

Begin by soaking them in warm soapy water (temperature around 100°F) for exactly 15 minutes to loosen up all the built-up sweat and bacteria.

For an even deeper restoration, use SneakERASERS SOAK solution, which is specifically designed to tackle the challenging contamination that regular soap might miss.

Gently clean both sides with a soft brush, paying extra attention to any stained or malodorous areas.

The most crucial part is allowing them to dry completely , specifically 24-48 hours in a well-ventilated area with air circulation (near an open window or fan) , before putting them back in the shoes, because damp insoles create a breeding ground for the exact problems you're trying to solve.

Treating Non-Removable Insoles and Interior

When insoles won't come out, you can still work around them and achieve excellent results.

Sprinkle a generous amount (approximately 2 tablespoons per shoe) of baking soda inside each shoe and allow it to sit for 8-12 hours , this will absorb odors and moisture while you sleep.

In the morning, thoroughly shake out the baking soda and follow up with a disinfectant spray, ensuring complete coverage of the entire interior surface.

Allow the shoes to air dry completely (12-24 hours depending on humidity) before wearing them, because any remaining moisture can lead to mold growth, which creates worse problems than the original issue..

Drying and Final Care

Never rush the drying process by placing shoes near a heater, in direct sunlight, or in the dryer , this can warp the materials and damage the adhesive that holds everything together.

Instead, locate a spot with consistent air circulation (such as near a ceiling fan or open window) and stuff the shoes with newspaper or use shoe trees to help them maintain their shape during the drying process.

This process requires patience, but 24-48 hours of proper air drying is what separates amateur restoration from professional results that keep your shoes looking like new.

Post-Cleaning Protection and Maintenance

Once shoes are completely dry, consider applying a protective spray to help them resist future stains and water damage.

Establish a regular maintenance schedule , perhaps a quick wipe-down after each wear and a deeper restoration monthly , to keep your investment looking pristine.

The convenience of SneakERASERS makes this routine actually manageable rather than a dreaded chore.

Finally, store restored shoes in a dry, well-ventilated area, and consider using shoe bags or boxes to prevent them from picking up new dirt and contaminants.

Your Clean Shoe Success Story Starts Now

Before learning these techniques, buying secondhand shoes felt like a gamble , no matter how perfect or budget-friendly they looked.

Concerns about germs, odors, and mystery stains were enough to pass up amazing finds. But now, with the right cleaning methods and SneakERASERS products, you can confidently transform any used pair into shoes that look, feel, and smell fresh , often cleaner than brand-new ones.

You're not only saving big (think 70–80% off retail), but you're also making a sustainable choice by giving great shoes a second life and keeping them out of landfills. Now that you know how to clean used shoes safely, you can turn any secondhand pair into a like-new favorite.