Under Armour shoes are designed for performance and comfort, but they can collect dirt, scuffs, and sweat over time. A proper cleaning routine helps extend their life and maintain their look. This guide provides practical steps and tool recommendations to safely refresh most Under Armour sneakers, including mesh and fabric models.
Quick Answer
Clean regular athletic shoes with a gentle cleaning approach: remove loose dirt, use a soft brush, apply a mild cleaner, scrub gently, rinse with a damp cloth, and air dry away from direct heat. For stubborn stains, use a stain remover pen and a microfiber towel for targeted touch-ups. Always test cleaners on a small area first.
What You’ll Need
- Sneaker cleaning kit with soft bristle brush and microfiber towel
- Electric sneaker cleaning brush for mesh fabric shoes
- Fabric sneaker cleaner spray for athletic shoes
- Microfiber towel for cleaning sneakers
- Stain remover pen for athletic shoes
Before You Start
Before cleaning, remove laces and insoles if possible. Brush off loose dirt to avoid grinding it into fibers. Allow shoes to dry fully after washing to prevent odor and material damage. Important cautions: do not submerge most athletic shoes in water, avoid direct sunlight and high heat, and spot-check cleaners on an inconspicuous area first to ensure colorfastness. Plan for a cleaning session that fits a few minutes of active work plus air-drying time.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Under Armour Shoes
- Remove laces and insoles; set them aside for separate cleaning if needed.
- Use the soft bristle brush to remove loose dirt from the outsole, sides, and tongue.
- Lightly dampen a microfiber towel and wipe away surface dust; avoid saturating the fabric.
- Apply a small amount of fabric sneaker cleaner spray to a clean brush or microfiber cloth and gently scrub the upper in circular motions.
- For mesh or fabric areas, consider an electric sneaker cleaning brush for deeper yet gentle agitation, focusing on stained spots.
- Rinse the cloth or brush with clean water and wipe away soap residue from all fabric surfaces.
- Pat the shoes dry with a dry microfiber towel; then let them air dry away from heat sources or direct sun.
- If stains persist, use a stain remover pen on the affected area and blot lightly until the stain lifts.
- Clean laces and insoles separately; air dry them completely before reinserting.
- Reassemble shoes once everything is completely dry; store in a cool, ventilated place.
- Optional upkeep: repeat monthly or after heavy use to maintain color and material integrity.
- For white or light fabrics, consider a gentle whitening wipe or spray designed for athletic shoes, following label directions.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains reappear after cleaning | Soap residue or trapped pigment | Rinse well and wipe with a damp microfiber cloth; reapply stain remover if needed | Rinse thoroughly during cleaning; avoid over-soaking |
| Color fading or fabric fraying | Harsh cleaners or rubbings | Switch to gentle cleaners and use light, even strokes | Test cleaners first and follow care labels |
| Odor persists after drying | Moisture left inside | Remove insoles, dry completely, and consider a deodorizing spray | Dry shoes fully before storage |
| Sole creases or stiffness | Excess water exposure | Dry promptly and avoid soaking; use minimal water | Limit water contact during cleaning |
| Mesh tears after cleaning | Over-aggressive scrubbing | Switch to lighter scrubbing and gentler brushes | Use brush with soft bristles; avoid heavy agitation |
Common Mistakes
- Using harsh detergents or bleach on fabrics
- Soaking shoes in water
- Drying in direct sunlight or near a heater
- Trying to clean in-place without removing laces or insoles
- Rubbing aggressively on mesh or knit panels
These missteps can lead to discoloration, fabric damage, or deformation. Following a gentle approach helps preserve the shoe’s fit and texture over time.
Tips For Best Results
- Clean shoes soon after noticeable dirt to prevent staining from setting in.
- Use a dedicated microfiber towel for different surfaces to avoid cross-contamination of colors.
- For mesh fabrics, an electric cleaning brush can save time while reducing manual effort.
- Test any cleaner on a hidden area before full application to verify colorfastness.
- Dry shoes in a ventilated area with good air flow; stuffing with paper towels can help maintain shape and absorb moisture.
Call A Professional
Consider professional cleaning if: the shoes are heavily stained with oil or paint; materials contain specialty coatings or leather panels; there is visible cracking or material separation; or if the fit and cushioning are compromised after cleaning. Seek an expert if you notice persistent odors that do not improve with cleaning and drying.
FAQ
Can I put Under Armour shoes in the washing machine?
Most fabric or mesh sneakers should not be machine washed, as excessive agitation can damage materials and adhesives. Hand cleaning with gentle tools is recommended.
How often should I clean Under Armour shoes?
A regular light cleaning after use and a deeper clean every few weeks during active seasons helps maintain performance and appearance.
Are there cleaning products safe for all Under Armour materials?
Yes, but always test a cleaner on a small hidden area first and follow product directions to protect fabrics and colors.
What should I do about laces and insoles?
Laces can be washed by hand or in a mesh bag in short cycles; insoles can be wiped or air-dried while ensuring they are completely dry before reinserting.
Buying Guide
When choosing cleaning tools for Under Armour shoes, consider factors like material compatibility, cleaning power, and ease of use. A versatile approach combines a soft-bristle brush, microfiber towels, and a gentle fabric cleaner spray for fabrics and mesh. Look for tools designed for athletic footwear to minimize abrasion and color transfer. For stubborn stains, a dedicated stain remover pen provides targeted action without saturating the entire upper. If frequent cleaning is anticipated, an electric sneaker cleaning brush tailored for mesh fabrics can speed up maintenance while protecting delicate fibers. Consider also storage and drying options to prevent moisture buildup and odor between wears.
Size, Noise, And Placement Considerations
Drives practical selection of cleaning tools: compact kits fit in a gym bag or closet, while larger kits offer more brushes for diverse materials. Noise levels from electric brushes should be considered if you clean in a shared space. Place shoes in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation during drying to minimize odor and mildew. Choose products with clear labeling for fabric types and colorfastness to ensure safe use on Under Armour sneakers.