Mesh and suede need different cleaning methods. For mesh that permits wet cleaning, use a small amount of mild solution, gentle brushing and a cloth to remove residue. Start suede dry, brushing away loose dirt before using a suitable suede eraser on surface marks. On a mixed-material sneaker, clean each panel separately instead of washing the whole upper as one surface.
Set out a small, material-specific kit
Check the shoe’s care instructions and identify its panels before choosing a cleaner. A fuzzy suede overlay and an open knitted toe are different surfaces, even if they share the same color. New Balance’s care advice also distinguishes ordinary athletic-shoe cleaning from suede or leather products needing specialist cleaners. This routine covers ordinary surface dirt, rather than restoration of worn fibres.
Give the sole and upper separate tools. That makes it easier to keep grit from the outsole out of the more delicate fabric. Use a clean cloth for the final wipe rather than the one that collected the initial dirt.
- A clean, soft brush for permitted mesh cleaning.
- A suede brush and a clean suede eraser for dry surface work.
- Two soft cloths, one for cleaning and one for removing residue.
- A small bowl of cool or lukewarm water and mild soap for suitable mesh only.
- Shoe trees or clean cloths to support the shape while working.
Clean suitable mesh with controlled moisture
Nike’s mesh instructions recommend hand cleaning, a mild solution and brushing with the knit rather than catching the yarn. Use the shoe’s own instructions to decide whether this method applies to your pair.
- Remove loose dirt and take out the laces so you can reach the panel without dragging them across it.
- Use a little mild soap in cool or lukewarm water. Apply it with the soft brush and work gently along the knit pattern.
- Wipe away the solution with a clean cloth. Work locally so the neighboring suede is not drenched.
- Blot excess moisture, support the shape and leave the pair to air dry before wearing.
Treat suede dirt and scuffs while the surface is dry
Nike’s suede guidance starts with allowing wet mud to dry before brushing. It also describes a suede eraser for remaining surface marks. That sequence gives you a useful stopping point before reaching for a liquid product.
- Let a wet or muddy patch dry naturally. Brushing it while wet can spread the mark.
- Use a suede brush lightly to remove loose dirt and lift the nap.
- Try a clean suede eraser on a small surface scuff, without aggressive rubbing.
- For a remaining stain, use only a cleaner suitable for that suede and follow its directions. Persistent oil, dye transfer or an unknown finish may need specialist care.
A mixed-material example: mesh toe, suede overlay, rubber edge
Imagine a pair with dust on the toe, dried mud along a suede panel and dirt on the rubber edge. Begin with a dry assessment of all three areas. The dusty toe may need only loose dirt removed; the rubber edge can be a separate job. There is no need to expose the entire upper to water just because one part is dirty.
Work on the suede while it is dry, then move to the mesh only if it still needs damp cleaning. Use the brush and cloth on the intended panel and keep the liquid away from the suede boundary. Finish the sole with its own tool. Before repeating any treatment, let the surface dry so you can judge what changed.
This example is a way to divide the work, not an instruction to clean an unidentified material. A coated or specialty panel can require a different method. If the care label contradicts this general routine, follow the label. The 3 kg sneaker parcel from Portugal offers another visual example; when browsing sneakers, confirm the materials on the exact listing before choosing a cleaning method.
Common mistakes and a better next move
| Mistake | Why it is unhelpful | Better next move |
|---|---|---|
| Using the mesh soap mixture over every panel | Suede can react differently to moisture. | Keep each method within the intended surface. |
| Hard scrubbing on knitted fabric | The brush can catch or disturb the yarn. | Use a soft tool, light pressure and the knit direction. |
| Brushing wet mud into suede | The damp mark can spread. | Allow it to dry before gentle surface brushing. |
| Using dryer heat to save time | Heat can damage the shoe. | Plan enough time for air drying. |
Common questions
Can I put a mesh-and-suede sneaker in the washing machine?
Do not assume it is machine washable. Both Nike and New Balance discourage machine washing their shoes in the cited guidance; suede also needs material-specific care. Check the instructions for the exact pair.
Should I keep cleaning a patch that still looks dark?
Let it dry before judging the result. If it remains, identify the stain and finish before choosing another treatment; extra water or rubbing may not solve it.
How do I know the shoes are ready to wear?
Check the upper, lining and removable components for remaining dampness. Drying time varies with the amount of moisture and the room, so use the actual condition rather than a fixed countdown.
References & further reading
Sources used for factual background. Comparisons and practical examples are editorial explanations; linked publishers do not endorse this site.
- NikeHow to Clean Mesh Shoes
Hand-cleaning materials, knit direction, residue removal and air drying; applies subject to the shoe’s own care instructions.
- NikeHow to Clean Suede Shoes
Dry-first brushing and suede erasers. The mixed-panel example is our own application of the material distinctions.
- New BalanceProduct Care & Maintenance
A second manufacturer’s mild-cleaning, machine/dryer and special-material care guidance. Its advice applies to its own products.