Some people change their sneakers regularly because they like to keep up with the latest fashion trends. But those who have found a pair of sneakers that they truly love or who are conscious about the environment will no doubt be looking for ways to ensure their sneakers last as long as possible. The good news is that with the right care and attention, the life of your favorite pair of shoes can be extended considerably. Below we outline how to make them last longer.
Be Proactive as Soon as You Buy New Shoes
The experts at Shoe Fresh, makers of a variety of shoe sprays, say it is always a good idea to protect your new shoes as soon as you take them out of the box. You can buy protective sprays that will repel water and dirt as well as shoe deodorizer spray that will prevent bad odors from building up.
Deodorizer spray can keep odors at bay for up to three months, but moisture repellent spray may need to be reapplied monthly to ensure your sneakers are always protected.
Keep Your Sneakers Clean
Sneakers are going to get dirty despite your best efforts to keep them looking brand new. If you are wearing them in bad weather for example, you can expect them to be splashed with mud and dirt. However, if you get into the habit of cleaning them regularly, they will last longer. You can clean your shoes in the washing machine on a low temperature, or you can spend some extra time cleaning them by hand. Hand washing will prolong the life of the sneakers but is less convenient than a washing machine.
If your sneakers get muddy, it is best to allow it to dry and then brush off as much mud as you can with a soft brush. An old toothbrush is great for getting into all areas of the shoe. You can then use a damp cloth to remove any stubborn dirt. A special cleaner may be available for specific fabrics, such as leather or suede.
If you do use a washing machine, make sure to place the shoes inside a pillowcase or a special shoe bag. Remove the laces before washing to ensure they come up really clean.
Alternate Your Shoes
It is natural to want to wear the same pair of sneakers every day, especially if they are really comfortable. Nevertheless, doing so will inevitably make them wear out much quicker. You are more likely to notice that they smell bad if you are wearing them every day as you are not allowing them time to air. However, a good shoe odor spray can help with this problem.
It is best to give your favorite sneakers a break from time to time if you want them to last longer. Try wearing them every other day to prolong their usable life.
Consider New Insoles
Most people will take care of the exterior of their sneakers but will neglect the interior. The insoles of a shoe can wear out quite quickly but if you change them regularly you will be surprised at how much longer the shoes last. In addition, new insoles improve the comfort levels of the shoes. You can purchase insoles with cushioned pads and arch support, depending on your individual needs and preferences.
Summary
Taking care of your sneakers by keeping them clean and fresh will ensure that they last much longer. To avoid excessive wear and tear, you should not wear your shoes every day, no matter how much you love them. Give them a break from time to time and see how much longer they will last.
