A good pair of running shoes is more than just footwear for everyday wear. For many runners, it is a performance tool that supports movement, helps protect the joints, and provides stability with every stride. However, as running shoes become more technologically advanced, many pairs tend to deteriorate quickly after only a few improper cleaning […]

A good pair of running shoes is more than just footwear for everyday wear. For many runners, it is a performance tool that supports movement, helps protect the joints, and provides stability with every stride. However, as running shoes become more technologically advanced, many pairs tend to deteriorate quickly after only a few improper cleaning sessions.

Many people wonder why shoes that once felt soft, lightweight, and supportive gradually become stiffer, lose their shape, or start showing signs of sole separation after a period of use. In most cases, the issue does not come from the quality of the shoes themselves, but from improper cleaning and care practices.

If you are looking for the right way to clean your shoes, wondering whether running shoes should be washed in a washing machine, or wanting to learn how to care for your running shoes to extend their lifespan, this article will give you a clearer understanding from the perspective of someone with years of hands-on experience working with athletic and running footwear.

Why are running shoes easily damaged by improper washing?

Unlike regular footwear, running shoes are engineered with multiple technical layers designed to optimize movement and athletic performance.

A modern pair of running shoes typically includes:

Ultra-light mesh or engineered knit upper
Midsole foam such as EVA or PEBA for shock absorption
Heel counter that helps stabilize the heel during movement
Adhesive bonding between the upper and sole
Durable rubber outsole for traction and abrasion resistance

All of these components work together as an integrated system. Running shoes are designed to maximize movement efficiency and minimize weight, which also means they are not built to withstand prolonged water exposure, harsh chemicals, or intense mechanical agitation caused by improper washing methods.

That is why many running shoes deteriorate more quickly the more they are washed incorrectly.

The most common mistakes when cleaning running shoes

1. Soaking running shoes for too long

One of the most common mistakes when cleaning shoes is soaking them for several hours to loosen dirt before scrubbing. While this approach may work for some items, it is not suitable for running shoes.

When shoes are soaked for too long midsole foam absorbs water, adhesive bonding begins to weaken, drying time becomes significantly longer, bacteria and odors are more likely to develop inside the shoe.

Water can penetrate deep into the connection between the upper and the sole. At first, the damage may not be immediately noticeable, but after several wears, issues such as glue separation or sole edge peeling often begin to appear.

This is one of the most common causes of damage in running shoes that are frequently soaked during cleaning.

running-shoes-cleaning — You can clean your running shoes at home with the right care and technique

2. Scrubbing the upper mesh too aggressively

The upper of modern running shoes is often made from engineered mesh or knit materials designed to improve breathability and reduce weight. While these materials are durable during movement, they are also sensitive to excessive friction.

Using a stiff brush or scrubbing too aggressively can cause the mesh to fray, weaken, or even tear the textile fibers. At the same time, the surface may lose its visual appeal and gradually become less breathable.

Many people assume their shoes are cleaner after heavy scrubbing, but in reality, the upper may already be losing its original structure. A well maintained pair of running shoes is not only clean, but also preserves its original texture and shape.

3. Drying running shoes under harsh sunlight or using heat

After cleaning, most people naturally want their shoes to dry as quickly as possible. As a result, many tend to leave shoes under direct midday sunlight, place them near heat sources, use a hair dryer or clothes dryer.

This is one of the mistakes that causes running shoes to deteriorate more quickly. High temperatures can lead to premature foam degradation, reduced adhesive strength, rubber becoming hard and brittle, upper materials shrinking or losing shape. This is especially problematic for shoes built with high performance foam, as excessive heat can alter the material’s original properties.

Scrubbing-the-upper-mesh-too-aggressively — Be gentle when scrubbing the upper.

4. Should you wash running shoes in a washing machine?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. The short answer is running shoes should not be washed in a washing machine as a regular cleaning habit.

A washing machine works through repeated impact, continuous friction, water immersion, high speed spinning motion. For clothing, this process is generally harmless. But for running shoes, the effects can be far more significant. In reality, the spinning cycle places constant pressure on the entire structure of the shoe.

Damage to adhesive bonding

The adhesive used in running shoes is engineered to withstand running forces, repeated flexing, and dry conditions. However, when exposed to a combination of water, strong agitation, and continuous impact, the bonding begins to weaken.

The most common consequences include sole separation, peeling edges, upper detaching from the midsole

This is why many shoes may still appear clean on the outside but experience a significant reduction in lifespan after repeated machine washing.

Damage to shoe structure and shape

The shape of a running shoe plays a major role in comfort, fit, and stability during movement. Inside a washing machine the toe box can become compressed or misshapen. The heel counter may lose its structural support, upper can develop creases and folds. At the same, the shoe gradually loses its original support system

A running shoe that has lost its shape often feels less secure, provides poorer foot lockdown, and delivers reduced stability. The original running experience is simply no longer the same.

That is why, if you are wondering whether running shoes should be washed in a washing machine, the answer from a shoe care perspective is clear: it is best to avoid machine washing whenever possible.

How harsh cleaning chemicals cause running shoes to fade and deteriorate

Many people use bleach, highly concentrated detergents, or cleaning solutions with unclear ingredients when washing their shoes, believing that stronger cleaning products deliver better results.

However, modern running shoes are made with lightweight materials and technical coatings that can be highly sensitive to harsh chemicals. Strong cleaning agents may damage or strip away protective coatings, cause reflective details to deteriorate, make foam materials become stiffer over time.

One common example involves white running shoes. Many people use chlorine based bleach to remove stains quickly. While the results may appear effective at first, the trade off can be significant: accelerated rubber aging, weakened upper materials, and a higher risk of yellowing over time.

That is why many white running shoes fade or deteriorate faster the harder people try to clean them.

How LATUSA cleans running shoes

At LATUSA, running shoe cleaning service focuses on preserving performance materials rather than treating shoes like regular laundry.

Each pair is cleaned based on its construction and material type, with separate treatment for uppers, insoles, laces, and outsoles. The process may involve dry or water-based cleaning depending on the shoe, followed by odor and bacteria control to help keep shoes clean while maintaining their original structure and comfort.

For many runners, proper cleaning is not only about appearance. It is also part of protecting the feel and performance of the shoes they rely on.

Running shoes cleaning service at LATUSA

1. Material Assessment and Inspection
Before cleaning begins, technicians evaluate the upper, foam midsole, adhesive bonding, and overall shoe condition to determine whether dry cleaning, water-based cleaning, or targeted treatment is most appropriate. This step is especially important for engineered mesh, knit materials, suede, and performance running shoes built with advanced foam technologies.

2. Interior and Exterior Cleaning
The entire shoe, including the upper, inner lining, and areas where sweat and dirt commonly accumulate, is cleaned using material-appropriate methods designed to remove buildup while minimizing stress on the shoe’s structure and shape.

3. Separate Treatment for Laces, Insoles, and Outsoles
Laces, insoles, and outsoles are cleaned separately using suitable cleaning solutions to help remove deep-set dirt, control odor, and address buildup without relying on harsh chemicals.

4. Odor and Bacteria Control
After cleaning, the shoes undergo odor and bacteria control treatment to help reduce unpleasant smells, limit bacterial growth, and maintain a fresher interior environment.

5. Controlled Drying and Shape Restoration
Rather than exposing shoes to excessive heat that may affect foam, adhesive bonding, and upper materials, the finishing process focuses on controlled drying and preserving the shoe’s original shape before delivery.

For many runners, proper shoe cleaning is not only about appearance. It is also part of protecting the comfort, stability, and long-term performance of the running shoes they rely on.

Running shoe cleaning service pricing

LATUSA serves you with a professional, convenient process and competitive shoes cleaning service pricing as follows:

Service Package	Process Details	Price (VND/pair)
Express Shoe Cleaning	Pick-up – spa cleaning – controlled drying – fast delivery, completed within 6 hours.Shoes are collected within 1–2 hours after booking, with door-to-door service available.	180,000
Basic Shoe Cleaning	Basic cleaning with silver ion deodorizing. Processing time ranges from 1–3 days depending on the condition of the shoes.	70,000
Deep Cleaning	Intensive cleaning, stain removal on fabric, leather conditioning, cleaning of laces, insoles, and soles.	90,000
Leather Shoes / Heels Cleaning	Dry cleaning with specialized solutions, deodorizing with silver ions, UV treatment, and double-layer leather conditioning.	120,000
Professional Shoes & Boots Cleaning	Dry cleaning, deodorizing, UV sterilization, and double-layer nano coating for dust protection.	120,000

Please note that the shoe cleaning service near me prices listed above are for reference only. For the most accurate and up to date pricing, kindly contact LATUSA for a detailed consultation and quotation.

running-shoes-cleaning-service — Running shoes cleaning service

How to care for running shoes to maintain comfort and extend their lifespan

Besides proper cleaning, the way running shoes are stored and maintained also plays an important role. A few simple habits can significantly extend their lifespan.

Avoid Running in the Same Pair Every Day

Foam needs time to recover after repeated compression. Many experienced runners rotate between multiple pairs, allowing the foam approximately 24–48 hours to recover. This helps maintain cushioning performance and overall comfort for a longer period.

Do Not Store Shoes While They Are Still Damp

Moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors to develop. Running shoes should be completely dry before being stored.

Do Not Wait Until Shoes Become Extremely Dirty

This is a very common mistake. Mud, sweat, and dirt that accumulate over time are often far more difficult to remove. Gentle and regular cleaning is usually more effective than attempting one aggressive deep-cleaning session.

When Should You Consider Professional Running Shoe Cleaning?

Not every pair of running shoes requires professional cleaning. However, under certain conditions, attempting to clean them at home may increase the risk of damage.

This is especially true when shoes experience issues such as:

Sole separation or weakened adhesive bonding
Long-term yellowing
Difficult-to-clean upper mesh materials
Deep odor buildup
High-value running shoes or models built with premium foam technologies

At this stage, cleaning is no longer simply about removing dirt. It requires an approach that considers the shoe’s material structure and performance components.

At LATUSA, shoe cleaning procedures are tailored to each material type and the shoe’s actual condition. The goal is not only to clean the shoes, but also to preserve their shape, protect foam performance, and minimize stress on the overall structure of running shoes. For shoes that require more careful treatment, this approach helps deliver deeper cleaning while maintaining long term comfort and performance.

white-shoes-cleaning-service-at- LATUSA — Professional running shoe cleaning at LATUSA

We serve across Ho Chi Minh City (shoes cleaning service, laundry service Ho Chi Minh,…):

46 Tran Binh Trong, Ward 5, Binh Thanh District, HCMC.
320 Phan Dinh Phung, Ward 1, Phu Nhuan District, HCMC.
34 Nguyen Van Thuong (former D1), Ward 25, Binh Thanh District, HCMC.
55 Nguyen Cuu Van, Ward 17, Binh Thanh District, HCMC.
30 Nguyen Quang Bich, Ward 13, Tan Binh District, HCMC.
91 Nguyen Van Luong, Ward 17, Go Vap District, HCMC.
AQUA 2 – Vinhomes Golden River – 02 Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC.

And a branch in Da Nang: