The Ultimate Guide: How to Clean Shoelaces and Keep Them Looking Fresh

When it comes to keeping your shoes in top shape, we often forget about the humble shoelaces. Over time, they accumulate dirt, grime, and stains, making our favorite pair of sneakers or dress shoes look unkempt.

Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning shoelaces effectively. Whether they are made of cotton, nylon, or polyester, we've got you covered.

Get ready to give your shoelaces a new lease on life!

Understanding Different Types of Shoelaces

Shoelaces aren’t all the same. In fact, they come in different shapes, sizes, and types (Remember the curly shoelaces?)

• Cotton Shoelaces: Cotton shoelaces are soft, comfortable, and commonly found on casual shoes. They are relatively easy to clean, but require a bit of care to prevent damage.
• Nylon Shoelaces: Nylon shoelaces are durable, water-resistant, and commonly found on athletic shoes. Cleaning nylon shoelaces requires a slightly different approach.
• Polyester Shoelaces: Polyester shoelaces are durable, fade-resistant, and commonly found on various types of shoes. Cleaning polyester shoelaces is similar to nylon shoelaces.

Preparing for Clean Laces

Gather the Necessary Supplies

Before you begin cleaning your shoelaces, gather the following supplies:

• Mild detergent or stain remover
• Basin or sink
• Soft brush or toothbrush
• Clean towels

Remove the Shoelaces from the Shoes

To clean your shoelaces more effectively, remove them from your shoes. Untie the knots, slip the laces out of the eyelets, and set them aside for cleaning.

Handwashing Method for Shoelaces

Step-by-Step Guide to Handwashing Cotton Shoelaces

1. Pre-treating stains
   
   a. Identify any stains on the cotton shoelaces.
   b. Apply a small amount of mild detergent or stain remover directly onto the stained areas.
   c. Gently rub the detergent into the stains using your fingers or a soft brush.
   
   
2. Soaking in a cleaning solution
   
   a. Fill a basin or sink with warm water.
   b. Add a small amount of mild detergent to create a cleaning solution.
   c. Submerge the cotton shoelaces in the solution and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.
   
   
3. Gentle scrubbing and rinsing
   
   a. Remove the shoelaces from the cleaning solution.
   b. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the shoelaces, paying extra attention to stained areas.
   c. Rinse the shoelaces thoroughly under running water to remove all the soap residue.
   
   
4. Drying and reshaping
   
   a. Lay the shoelaces flat on a clean towel.
   b. Let them air dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources.
   c. Once dry, reshape the shoelaces by rolling them between your palms.

Step-by-Step Guide to Handwashing Nylon Shoelaces

1. Pre-treating stains
   
   a. Check for any stains on the nylon shoelaces.
   b. Apply a small amount of mild detergent directly onto the stained areas.
   c. Gently rub the detergent into the stains using your fingers or a soft brush.
   d. Soaking in a cleaning solution
   
   
2. Soaking in a cleaning solution
   
   a. Add a few drops of mild detergent to create a cleaning solution.
   b. Place the nylon shoelaces in the solution and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.
   
   
3. Gentle scrubbing and rinsing
   
   a. Remove the shoelaces from the cleaning solution.
   b. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the shoelaces, paying extra attention to any stubborn stains.
   c. Rinse the shoelaces thoroughly under running water to remove all the soap residue.
   
   
4. Drying and reshaping
   
   a. Pat dry the shoelaces with a clean towel.
   b. Hang them or lay them flat to air dry.
   c. Avoid using a clothes dryer, as the heat may damage the nylon material.
   

Step-by-Step Guide to Handwashing Polyester Shoelaces

1. Pre-treating stains
   
   a. Identify any stains on the polyester shoelaces.
   b. Apply a small amount of mild detergent or stain remover directly onto the stained areas.
   c. Gently rub the detergent into the stains using your fingers or a soft brush.
   
   
2. Soaking in a cleaning solution
   
   a. Fill a basin or sink with warm water.
   b. Add a few drops of mild detergent to create a cleaning solution.
   c. Submerge the polyester shoelaces in the solution and let them soak for approximately 10 minutes.
   
   
3. Gentle scrubbing and rinsing
   
   a. Remove the shoelaces from the cleaning solution.
   b. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the shoelaces, focusing on stained areas if necessary.
   c. Rinse the shoelaces thoroughly under running water until all the detergent is removed.
   
   
4. Drying and reshaping
   
   a. Lay the shoelaces flat on a clean towel.
   b. Allow them to air dry naturally.
   c. Once dry, reshape the shoelaces by rolling them between your palms.
   

Machine Washing Method for Shoelaces

If you need to, you can sometimes machine wash shoelaces. However, make sure to check the care instructions on the shoelaces to double check they’re machine washable. Also, we recommend placing shoelaces in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase beforehand to prevent them from getting tangled during the cycle.

Also, make sure you avoid washing shoelaces with delicate fabrics or delicate items that may damage them by snagging or causing friction.

Here’s how to machine wash shoelaces.

1. Place the cotton shoelaces in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
2. Add a small amount of mild detergent to the washing machine.
3. Set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water.
4. Start the washing machine and let it complete the cycle.
5. Once finished, remove the shoelaces from the laundry bag or pillowcase.
6. Lay them flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid using a clothes dryer.

Tips for Dealing with Stubborn Stains

You may encounter some stubborn stains. Here’s what you can do depending on each stain type.

• Grease or oil stains: Absorb excess grease or oil with a paper towel and then use a stain remover specifically designed for greasy stains.
• Ink or dye stains: Blot the stain with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or use a stain remover suitable for ink stains.
• Grass stains: Apply a mixture of water and mild detergent to the stained area, then scrub gently with a soft brush.
• Mud stains: Allow the mud to dry completely, then brush off the excess before following the appropriate cleaning method mentioned earlier.
• Blood stains: Rinse the stained area with cold water as soon as possible, then use a stain remover suitable for protein-based stains.

Eliminating Odors from Shoelaces

If you’re still dealing with odor after washing your shoelaces you can try:

• Applying baking soda and letting them sit overnight. Shake off excess baking soda and brush shoelaces to remove residue.

• Apply vinegar solution by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spraying your laces and letting them air dry.

• Believe it or not, you can freeze your shoelaces by sealing them in a plastic bag and sealing it tightly. This will kill odor-causing bacteria. After they are frozen, simply thaw and air dry.

Maintaining Clean Shoelaces

If you want to maintain healthy shoelaces,here are some preventative measures you can take

• Regularly wipe them with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt 
• Avoid stepping on your shoelaces or dragging them on the ground to minimize dirt and wear.
• Consider purchasing extra pairs of shoelaces and rotate them regularly to extend their lifespan.

Keep on looking fresh!

You have now mastered the art of cleaning shoelaces. By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing the tips provided, you can keep your shoelaces looking fresh and extend their longevity. 

If ever you’re in need of new shoes altogether, Big Shoes can help. We take pride in our extensive shoe knowledge and expertise and help those with bigger feet feel comfortable in their shoes! So  Enjoy your squeaky-clean shoelaces!