How to Clean and Care for Faux Leather Trainers

Quick answer

Clean faux leather trainers with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap, then air dry. For glitter or printed panels, spot test first and avoid soaking.

Diagnosis: What to do when your faux leather trainers get dirty

• Symptom: Light dirt or dust on faux leather: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth. If needed, add a drop of mild dish soap to the cloth and wipe again. Dry immediately with a clean cloth. Do not scrub; this can damage the coating.
• Symptom: Scuff marks or stains on faux leather: Dampen a cotton swab or soft cloth with a 1:10 solution of mild soap and water. Gently rub the mark in a circular motion. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and air dry. If the mark does not fade after two tries, stop. Further rubbing may remove the finish.
• Symptom: Dirt on glitter or printed panels: Spot test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. Use a soft, barely damp cloth and dab—do not rub—the glitter area. Let air dry completely before wearing. If the glitter flakes or the print smudges, stop immediately. This means the adhesive is weak.
• Symptom: Mud or grime on chunky soles: Remove loose dirt with a dry brush. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to make a paste. Apply to the sole grooves with an old toothbrush, scrub gently, and wipe clean. Avoid getting the paste on the faux leather upper—it can dry out the material.
• Symptom: Odor inside trainers: Sprinkle baking soda inside and let sit overnight. Shake out the powder before wearing. Do not machine wash or submerge the trainers. If odor persists, the lining may be damaged. Replace insoles instead of soaking the shoe.

Products mentioned in this guide

• Beige Printed Panel Faux Leather Glitter Trainers - Guinevere: Beige Printed Panel Faux Leather Glitter Trainers with a faux leather upper and glitter accents. The printed panel and glitter require extra care during cleaning to avoid fading or peeling.

  

• Red Chunky Sole High Runner Sock Trainers - Celine: Red Chunky Sole High Runner Sock Trainers with a knit upper and chunky white sole. The chunky sole traps dirt in the grooves, and the sock-like knit upper needs a different cleaning approach than faux leather.