Make Second-Hand Shoes Shine with Easy Cleaning Tips

Buying second-hand shoes isn’t just about finding something trendy or wanting to save some money. It is also about sustainability and attempting to Restore shoes that still have a lot of good in them.

Although there is no doubt that you loved these thrift store finds, they follow a dull process – cleaning. In this guide, you will learn the most important techniques and tools necessary to maintain the cleanliness of second-hand shoes. 

We will show you how to begin with all those finds in a truly sustainable fashion and still make them protective and fashionably fun.

Step-by-Step Process of Cleaning Second-Hand Shoes? 

Cleaning Toolkit

• Microfiber cloths. These cloths can also be used to gently wipe shoe surfaces to get rid of dust and other minor particles without scratching the underlying material.
• Mild detergent. Mix with warm water and clean the shoes from as much dirt as possible. The solution can be applied using a cloth in case the dirt is quite firmly stuck in the fabric but there is fear of damaging it.
• Old toothbrush. Excellent for fine scrubbing in confined spaces such as the seams and textured parts of the shoes. It facilitates the removal of difficult dirt.
• Rubbing alcohol. Apply when necessary to sanitize and remove scratches from the shoes. Works best on the soles and other artificial surfaces.

First Step – Dust off your Second Hand Shoe

There is more than one way to restore thrift shop shoes, and it is safe to say that none is without its merits. We will begin by taking a soft cloth and wiping all the loose dirt or dust off the shoes as much as possible. This first step is very essential to avoid scratches and make the shoes ready for a more thorough cleaning exercise.

Then, moving on to the second phase, you can spice it up by mixing water with baking soda to form a ‘paste’ for a further cleaning of the shoe. This paste can be applied with a cloth onto the shoes in places where dirt is more likely to be found. The paste should therefore be left on for a while and then wiped off so that it reveals what is underneath and that is a clean surface.

As for dirt accumulation in seams and out-soles where these are present deep restraint on their use will be demanded, soft brushes will be very helpful here. Scrubbing of these areas should be done superficially so as not to damage the shoe while removing the debris.

These practical steps will go a long way in helping fortify the thrifted treasures as new and as well help prolong their period of use.

Additional Read: How Do You Clean Felt Shoes 

Second Step – Use Although Soft Detergent Effective Cleaning

It’s time to make those shoes clean! To begin, let us mix some mild detergent in warm water. Such a mixture is mild but works effectively. Wet a clean cloth with the soap solution. It should be wet but not dripping wet. A cloth is used to start cleaning the shoes. Target the areas that are dirty or dusty.

Flexible wrist action is recommended for dirt removal to prevent fabric from being torn. The detergent is incredibly effective in getting rid of impurities as it is very tenacious. However, it is advised that you remain calm and complete your task as best as you can.

When completed, do not forget to wipe your shoes with a damp cloth to remove any cleansing residue. Wow, your sandals look incredible and they are not dirty any more!

Third Step – Scrub Using an Old Tooth Brush for a Deep Clean

Now to move on to the more detailed work: and over efforts that require some elbow grease or an older toothbrush at least. It is good for the seams and tipped textured areas. Take the toothbrush wet it and dip it in the cleaning solution. Gently and in circles abrasive this way. 

This helps to detach the more stubborn clogs. Amazing and hard-to-see parts that are hard to get to since they are never seen. This is done carefully to avoid straining a part of the shoe. For a detailed clean, the old toothbrush can prove to be your greatest ally. With time and carefulness, your shoes will definitely not be dirty.

Additional Read: How To Clean Canvas Shoes

Fourth Step: Rinse and inspect your Shoes

You have been cleaning and now it is moving on to another step -rinse those clean shoes! Rinse off the laundry soap, and any chemical contaminants that are present on the fabric. 

I prefer to supply water similarly, to that rather soft jet. Now it is safe to do a quick inspection of your footwear once they are rinsed off. Looking for any spots, where you think you might have overlooked cleaning, is acceptable. If it’s quite stubborn dirt that you have encountered, it’s quite fine.

This is where you can apply detergent again and scrub it one last time. Cleaning means checking every corner. This way, your shoes are getting even closer to looking as if they were brand new!

Additional Read: How To Clean White Fabric Shoes

How to Disinfect Second-Hand Shoes

Buying second-hand shoes is a smart way to save money and help the environment. However, they can carry germs and bacteria that might cause odors or infections. Here’s how to disinfect them easily using items you probably already have at home.

Why It’s Important to Disinfect? 

There are several methods to disinfect your second-hand shoes. Here is the list. Pick one that suits you the best. 

NEVER wear thrift store shoes without disinfecting them. 

Method 1: Rubbing Alcohol

• Remove insoles if possible.
• Spray 70% rubbing alcohol inside the shoes and on the insoles.
• Wipe with a cloth to ensure it soaks in.
• Air dry completely. Use a lighter spray for delicate materials.

Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide

• Fill a spray bottle with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• Spray inside the shoes and on the insoles.
• Wipe evenly with a cloth.
• Air dry fully. Avoid using dark fabrics to prevent bleaching.

Method 3: Vinegar

• Use white or apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle.
• Spray inside or wipe with a vinegar-dampened cloth.
• Air dry before wearing.
• For odor control, sprinkle baking soda inside before using vinegar, and let it sit overnight.

Method 4: UV Light

• Place a UV light device inside each shoe.
• Cover with a bag to enhance effectiveness.
• Turn on for about 45 minutes.
• Suitable for any shoe type.

Drying Thrift Shop Shoes.

After disinfecting and washing your shoes, you can let them off to dry in a well-ventilated place. Do not put them in the sun directly or near heat sources like radiators because excess heat may destroy the materials and make them shrink. 

For the shoes to keep their shape even after being wet, put crumpled-up pieces of newspaper inside them. This also helps in preventing the shoes from changing their shape as well as soaking in too much water. In that way, you will not have to worry about the styling of your op shop shoes as they are ready for going out.

Additional Read: How to Clean Cloth Shoes White

FAQs on How to Clean Second-Hand Shoes

How do you deal with disinfecting second-hand shoes?

For disinfecting second-hand shoes, rubbing alcohol or any disinfectant spray should be combined. Lightly spray the inside and outside, and then wipe with a clean towel. Air out the finished shoes before wearing them.

How do you get the smells out of thrifted shoes?

Dampen some baking soda and sprinkle it on the shoes and then leave them overnight for the unwanted smells to be absorbed. Another way to deodorize is to place dryer sheets into the shoes.

If I have to deal with soft materials like suede or leather, how can I clean them?

In the case of suede shoes take a suede brush and remove dirt. In the case of leather, use a little damp cloth with soap and wipe the surface. Do not permit these materials to swell and allow them to dry naturally.

Can second-hand shoes be put in the washing machine?

Canvas or fabric shoes can be washed in a machine. You can put them in a laundry bag and wash them in gentle cycle mode on cold water. Avoid so machine washing all leather, suede, and embellishment-dependent shoes. Here is a detailed guide on How To Wash Shoes In Washing Machine.

How often should I wash second-hand shoes?

Depending on use, the shoes can be cleaned every few weeks till every so often a month for secondhand shoes. Such cleaning aims to observe standard and good foot hygiene and helps to extend the life span of the shoes.

Do you suggest using vinegar as a cleaning agent for secondhand shoes?

Vinegar is an excellent disinfectant. Prepared equal amounts of water and vinegar sprayed the insides of the shoes and wiped with a cloth. Let them dry on the air completely.

Wrapping Up 

Taking care of dirt and germs for your used shoes is easy yet satisfying since it improves their state and your comfort level as well. After all, a good scrub always helps them stay presentable and more importantly, to be donned safely and comfortably. 

A relatively low level of inconvenience can turn out to be highly beneficial – both to the expenditure and the general sane level of an individual, as well as the nice feeling when proudly wearing stylish and absolutely clean shoes. 

Carry on the maintenance and your acquired shoes will be packed for different hours out of different places with you!