Sneaker care: keeping your kicks fresh

A clean pair of trainers looks better, lasts longer, and sells for more when you're ready to move them on. Sneaker care doesn't need to be complicated — here's a simple routine anyone can follow.

Cleaning

You'll need: a soft-bristled brush, mild soap (dish soap works), warm water, and a microfibre cloth.

For the uppers (fabric/knit):

1. Remove the laces
2. Dry-brush off loose dirt
3. Mix a small amount of soap with warm water
4. Dip the brush, scrub gently in circular motions
5. Wipe with a damp microfibre cloth to remove soap
6. Air dry — never use a radiator or tumble dryer

For leather or synthetic uppers:

1. Wipe with a damp cloth
2. Use a dedicated leather cleaner or mild soap
3. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to prevent cracking

For the midsoles (the white foam part): Yellowing midsoles are caused by oxidation. To reduce yellowing, keep your sneakers out of direct sunlight when storing. For existing yellowing, a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide applied and left in UV light can help — but test on a small area first.

For the outsoles: Use an old toothbrush with soapy water to get into the treads. A clean outsole improves grip and makes the shoe look newer.

Storage

How you store your sneakers has a bigger impact on their condition than how you clean them.

• Keep them in the box with silica gel packets to control moisture
• Use shoe trees (cedar is ideal) to maintain the shape and absorb odour
• Avoid plastic bags — they trap moisture and can cause mould
• Keep away from direct sunlight — UV fades colours and yellows midsoles
• Store in a cool, dry place — avoid lofts and garages with temperature swings

Protection

Prevent before you treat:

• Apply a water and stain repellent spray (like Crep Protect) before the first wear
• Reapply every few weeks if you wear them regularly
• Avoid wearing white sneakers in the rain — rotate to a darker pair on wet days
• Use a sneaker shield or toe box protector to prevent creasing in the toe area

When to resell

If you're planning to sell your sneakers on Driply:

• Clean them thoroughly before taking photos
• Be honest about condition — buyers appreciate transparency
• Include the original box and any extra laces — this adds £10–£20 to the sale price
• Take photos in natural light from multiple angles, including the soles

A well-cared-for pair of sneakers can hold 60–80% of its retail value. A neglected pair might sell for 30%. The difference is in the care.