A good pair of climbing shoes will become our best climbing tool and our closest friend who will accompany us on our climbing journey for many years.
When you put on climbing shoes to cross the thorny jungle; walk through streams and grasslands; flatten the Gobi and desert with flying sand and gravel; climb the rocks and reach the top, the partner under your feet will be exhausted.
Because climbing shoes must not only withstand the power of the feet but also face the grinding of various complex and extreme natural environments.
They can accumulate dirt, sweat, and odors, affecting their performance and longevity, They must be carefully maintained to extend their lifespan and accompany us on a longer journey.
This guide will walk you through the steps of cleaning your climbing shoes, from basic maintenance to deep cleaning, and provide step by step guide to keep them fresh and durable.
How to clean your climbing shoes?
The correct steps to clean climbing shoes include removing dirt, cleaning the upper andsole, and cleaning the inside of the shoe.
Basic Cleaning Techniques
Basic cleaning should be done regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
Materials Needed
- Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- Warm water
- Soft cloth
Steps
- Remove Loose Dirt
Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to remove loose dirt and debris from the surface and crevices of the shoes.
Pay special attention to the rubber sole and toe box, as these areas tend to accumulate the most dirt.
- Clean the shoes
For shoes that are not too dirty, Wipe with a damp cloth to scrub the exterior and interior.
For tougher stains, use the brush to scrub the affected areas gently.
- Rinse
Wipe off the residue with a clean, damp cloth, or rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Make sure not to soak the shoes in water, as excessive moisture can damage them.
Deep Cleaning Methods
For shoes that have seen extensive use or have stubborn stains and odors, a deeper cleaning is necessary.
Materials Needed
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A soft brush or old toothbrush
- Mild soap or specialized shoe cleaner
- Warm water
- Soft cloth
Steps
- Pre-Treatment
Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb odors and moisture.
In the morning, shake out the excess baking soda.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution
Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts warm water.
Alternatively, you can use a specialized shoe cleaner for a more targeted approach.
- Clean the Interior
Dip the soft brush into the vinegar solution and gently scrub the interior of the shoes, especially areas prone to sweating.
This helps remove bacteria and fungi that cause odors.
- Clean the Exterior
Use mild soap to clean the exterior, focusing on heavily soiled areas.
For rubber soles, use the soft brush to ensure a thorough clean.
- Rinse
Once you are satisfied with the scrubbing results, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all stains and detergent residue.
Make sure not to use hot water to avoid damaging the shoes.
Drying Your Climbing Shoes
Proper drying is crucial to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria and to maintain the shape and integrity of the shoes.
Tips for Drying
- Air Drying
Always air dry your climbing shoes. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Stuffing
Stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help them retain their shape and absorb moisture.
- Rotation
If you have multiple pairs of climbing shoes, rotate them to ensure each pair has adequate time to dry between uses.
Dealing with Odors
Climbing shoes are prone to developing unpleasant odors due to sweat and bacteria.
Preventing Odors
- Wear Socks
Wear two pairs of socks, one thick pair, and one thin pair, so they can fully absorb the sweat from your feet.
- Alternate Shoes
Use multiple pairs of climbing shoes to allow each pair to dry and air out between uses.
- Foot Powder
Use antifungal foot powder to keep your feet dry and reduce odor.
Removing Odors
- Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. Shake out the excess in the morning.
- Shoe Deodorizers
Use professional shoe deodorizers for rapid odor neutralization.
- Vinegar Spray
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the interior of the shoes and let them air dry.
- Tea Tree Oil
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the vinegar spray for its antifungal properties and pleasant scent.
5 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Climbing Shoes
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your climbing shoes. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:
- Inspection
Before and after climbing, you should carefully check the condition of your Climbing Shoes, such as whether there are any abnormalities in the adhesive part of the shoes, the wear of the soles, and the condition of the shoelaces.
Promptly discovering and dealing with the safety hazards of the shoes can prevent accidents that may occur during climbing.
- Cleaning
After each activity, you should thoroughly clean your Climbing Shoes.
You can use a soft brush to clean the dirt and dust on the uppers; use a hard brush to clean the sand and stones on the soles, and do not leave sand and stones between the ribs.
The inside of the shoes also needs to be cleaned. Take out the insoles and remove the dirt inside the shoes to remove odors.
- Drying
Put the cleaned shoes in a ventilated and cool place to dry naturally.
If the shoes get wet during activities, dry them in time, otherwise, the air permeability of the inner layer of the shoes will be reduced, which will easily make the shoes smell.
It is best not to dry them with fire or expose them to the sun, as this will damage the upper material and cause the shoes to shrink and deform.
- Waterproofing
The upper of the shoe should be waterproofed regularly to reduce the penetration of rainwater.
You can apply some special waterproofing agent and then put it in a cool place. It takes a certain amount of time to dry after applying the waterproofing agent, so do not maintain it just before climbing.
Waterproofing agents are divided into two types: spray and paint. Be sure to confirm that the waterproofing agent used is specifically for shoes.
- Storage
Store shoes in a cool, ventilated place to avoid mold.
Away from direct sunlight and heat sources, high temperatures can damage the leather, stitching, and adhesive on the soles of shoes.
Untie the shoelaces and stuff newspapers into the shoes to absorb moisture. It is also recommended to lightly tie long shoelaces into a knot for easy organization.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your climbing shoes remain in excellent condition:
-
Using Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using bleach, harsh detergents, or abrasive cleaners that can damage the material. -
Drying with Heat
Avoid using dryers, heaters, or direct sunlight to dry your shoes, as excessive heat can cause the materials to warp or crack. -
Neglecting Cleaning
Regularly clean your shoes to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.
Can Climbing Shoes be cleaned in a washing machine?
Machine washing is generally not recommended for climbing shoes, But if you have one of our shoe washing bag, you can clean them in the washing machine.
Our shoe washing bag is made of soft chenille material, which can fully protect shoes from damage during washing and can clean many types of shoes.
There are more than 1,000 small finger-like hairs inside, which can thoroughly clean shoes and free your hands.
- Select a delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water.
- Put the shoes in a shoe washing bag to protect them.
- Use Mild Detergent, and avoid harsh chemicals and bleach.