Care Guide: How to properly care for your sneakers

Rain, street dirt and daily wear leave their mark on your sneakers. With the right cleaning and care, you can keep your favorite pair clean and protect the materials. With your 24couture sneakers, you can separate the interchangeable uppers from the soles and clean both parts individually.

This guide will show you how to clean your sneakers, keep the zipper clean and gently dry your shoes after wet days.

Before you start: You can find the individual care instructions on the respective product page for your upper and sole. These take precedence over our general guide, as every material requires appropriate care.

What do you need to clean your sneakers?

For gentle sneaker cleaning, you will need:

A sneaker cleaner suitable for the material
A soft brush
Clean, soft cloths, for example made of microfiber
Lukewarm water
A small, soft brush for the zipper
A laundry bag, if your upper is expressly suitable for the washing machine

Step 1: Separate the upper and sole

Open the zipper completely and carefully separate the upper from the sole. You can find out how this works in our guide to changing uppers.

This allows you to clean both parts specifically and also reach the areas along the connection where dirt can accumulate.

Step 2: Clean the sneaker upper correctly

How you clean your upper depends on the material. Therefore, first check the care instructions on the respective product page.

Clean the upper by hand

Remove loose dirt: Carefully brush off dust and dry dirt. Let damp mud dry first.
Test the cleaner: First test a suitable cleaning agent on an inconspicuous area.
Dissolve stains: Carefully clean the affected areas with a suitable brush or a slightly damp cloth. Follow the instructions for the material and the cleaner.
Remove residue: Wipe up cleaning agent residue with a clean, slightly damp cloth, provided it is suitable for the material.
Dry gently: Let the upper dry completely in the air at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators and intense heat.

Do not soak the upper generally and avoid unnecessary wetting.

Care for leather, suede and microfiber

Leather: Use only cleaners and care products that are suitable for the respective type of leather. Clean the material gently and avoid excessive wetting.

Suede: Carefully remove dry dirt with a suitable suede brush. Use only products designed for suede for further cleaning steps.

Microfiber: Follow the care instructions for your model. Use only suitable cleaners and work without rubbing hard.

Can the upper go in the washing machine?

Only uppers that are expressly suitable for the washing machine according to the product page may go in the washing machine. Follow the specifications given there for temperature, wash program and detergent.

Use a laundry bag, which you can order with your purchase in our shop. Let the upper dry completely in the air after washing.

Step 3: Clean the sneaker sole

First remove coarse dirt and small stones from the sole tread. Use a small brush for this and work carefully.

Then wipe the sole with a damp cloth and a suitable mild cleaner. You can treat stubborn stains with a soft brush.

Remove cleaning agent residue with a clean, damp cloth and let the sole dry at room temperature. Also here, follow the care instructions on the respective product page.

Step 4: Clean and care for the zipper

For the upper and sole to be reliably connected, the zipper should be free of dust and dirt.

Clean it carefully with a small, soft brush. Avoid sharp objects and do not pull the zipper shut by force. If it is difficult to move, first check for dirt or a blockage.

You should only use care products such as silicone spray if they are expressly recommended in the product-specific care instructions.

Step 5: Reconnect the upper and sole

Only reconnect your sneaker once the upper and sole are completely dry. Check that the zipper is clean, and ensure the correct fit and locking according to our changing guide.

Drying wet sneakers: What is important after rainy days

Let wet sneakers dry in a well-ventilated place at room temperature. By separating the upper and sole, you can let both parts dry individually.

Avoid radiators, hair dryers, dryers and direct sunlight. Remove dirt as soon as possible according to the material instructions, and do not wear your sneakers again until they are completely dry.

Frequently asked questions about sneaker care

Can I clean my entire 24couture sneaker in the washing machine?

A washing approval for the upper does not automatically apply to the entire sneaker. Separate the upper and sole before cleaning and follow the individual care instructions for both parts.

How often should I clean my sneakers?

Remove loose dirt regularly and clean stronger stains as needed using material-appropriate methods. After wet days, it is especially important to let the sneakers dry completely.

Where can I find the care instructions for my model?

You can find the individual care instructions directly on the respective product page for your upper and sole. There you will find out which cleaning and care is suitable for your model.

With the right care, your favorite pair will be ready for your next look. Discover our interchangeable uppers and soles and put together your 24couture sneakers according to your style.