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How to Clean Nike Shoes with Mesh: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are among the people who love having their shoes clean you know the challenge of erasing the stains and dirt on one’s favorite sneakers. As some of you are fortunate enough to own Nike shoes that contain mesh, you are aware of just how trying it can be to wash it without featuring negative effects on the mesh fabric.

Dirty is as dirty does or in the case of mesh shoes they soak up just about anything you ever come in contact with and are probably one of the hardest shoes to clean. But fear not! In the case of mud, grass stains or chewing gum, there’s always a way out of it.

If you have a hard time washing your Nike mesh shoes, our Vessi shoes might work for you. The material used to design Vessi shoes is 100% waterproof; thus the shoes are stylish, comfortable, and easy to clean. So, unlike the mesh shoes, you cannot see the dirt and stains in Vessi shoes and the cleaning process is very easy. As it is with our Vessi shoes, you will be able to avoid having to compromise your favorite sneakers by removing hard to remove stains and dirt. Also, Vessi shoes are environmentally friendly, so you can be assured you are making a good decision while also keeping your shoes fresh as they are new.

But for those who do own a pair of Nike shoes with mesh, let’s get into the simple directions on how to get your sneakers clean again.

How to Clean Nike Shoes with Mesh

white mesh shoes

Mesh is often the preferred upper material for trainers and running shoes, so it's prone to getting dirty. Mesh makes these shoes, including Nike, because it is stylish, lightweight, and easy to clean. We have listed several ways to clean white mesh shoes, and all the methods will take a few steps.

1. With baking soda and mild detergent

Cleaning mesh shoes

Image Credit: youtube.com

Sodium bicarbonate and a mild detergent help to dissolve dirt and other stubborn stains that may be found on Nike mesh shoes and in the process are not abrasive to the shoe’s material. It’s easy, handy and can be done at the comfort of your home, without you having to visit a professional shoe cobbler. Before using a mixture, make sure that the baking soda and this mild detergent have properly dissolved in the water.

  1. Remove dirt or debris from your Nike shoes using a soft-bristled brush or cloth.

  2. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of mild liquid detergent in a bowl with one cup of water.

  3. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the baking soda mixture and gently brush the mesh parts of your shoes in circular motions. Avoid applying too much pressure, which may damage the mesh material.

  4. Rinse the shoes with clean water until you remove all the cleaning solution.

  5. Stuff the shoes with clean, dry towels or paper to help them retain their shape while they dry.

  6. Let the Nike mesh shoes air dry in a cool, dry place and not under direct sunlight.

2. White toothpaste

cleaning white mesh shoes

Image Credit: wikihow.com

Another method of washing mesh shoes is by using white tooth paste. White toothpaste is cheaper but effective used when cleaning Nike shoes. It also shows its function as an abrasive cleaner, which can be used to clean stain and dirt on the mesh material but still safe to use.

When using toothpaste, make sure to choose a white, non-gel formula. Also, avoid toothpaste with whitening, and bleaching agents, as they may discolor your white shoes.

  1. Use a cloth or brush to remove dirt, dust, mud, and debris from the shoe.

  2. Remove the shoestrings and dampen your mesh shoes with water.

  3. Apply your white non-gel toothpaste to a small brush or soft-bristled toothbrush.

  4. Apply your white toothpaste by scrubbing it on the stains and dirt using a circular motion.

  5. Allow the white toothpaste to sit on your Nike mesh shoes for a few minutes, and wipe off the toothpaste using a damp cloth.

  6. Once you finish wiping the mesh shoes, clean or rinse them under cold water.

  7. Allow the mesh shoes to air dry completely.

3. Bleach solution

Clean mesh shoes

Image Credit: pinterest.com

Another great cleaner that can be used in white mesh shoes is bleach. They are a strong cleaner and may help eliminate spots and smells on your mesh sneakers. But it should not be used on all materials because it can harm some of them and it is not supposed to be used on mesh shoes.

When preparing the solution add one part of bleach and five parts of water when diluting it. Do not use concentrated bleach as it will stain or even spoil your shoes.

A bleach solution is excellent for cleaning white mesh shoes in the following ways:

  1. Use a soft-bristled brush or clean cloth to remove dirt and debris from your shoes.

  2. Remove the shoelaces from your white Nike mesh shoes.

  3. Put on some gloves.

  4. Mix one part of the bleach solution with five parts of water to create a diluted bleach solution.

  5. Dip the soft brush in your bleach solution and start working on the dirt and stains on your mesh shoe using circular motions.

  6. Once you clean them fully, rinse the clean white mesh shoes under cold water until you remove all the bleach.

  7. Let the Nike mesh shoes air dry before you wear them again.

4. Shoe cleaner kit

clean mesh shoes

Image Credit: letsclyde.com

Special shoe cleaner kits that are meant for mesh materials will help clean your Nike shoes and get rid of dirt and stains. They can usually be purchased through these stores and they come with a cleaner and a soft bristle shoe brush.

When using a shoe cleaner kit one should follow the instructions that are printed on the pack. Ideally, you should:

  1. Remove dirt or debris from your Nike shoes using a soft-bristled brush or cloth.

  2. Follow the instructions on the shoe cleaner kit packaging to mix the solution.

  3. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the solution and gently scrub the mesh parts of your shoes in circular motions.

  4. Rinse the shoes with clean water until you remove all the cleaning solution.

  5. Stuff the shoes with a clean, dry, or paper towel to help them retain their shape while they dry.

  6. Let the Nike mesh shoes air dry in a cool, dry place and not under direct sunlight.

5. Washing machine

Naturally, if your Nike shoes with mesh are very dirty, and none of these techniques bring results, it might be possible to wash these shoes in a washing machine. Washing mesh shoes with a washing machine is very effective meaning that if one follows the step by step guidelines they will come out great.

But Nike does not advise using the washing machine to wash the mesh shoes, hand washing is more effective they predict.

clean mesh shoes

Image Credit: pinterest.com

Follow the instructions below to clean mesh shoes in the washing machine.

  1. Remove dirt or debris from your Nike mesh shoes using a soft-bristled brush or cloth.

  2. Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them during the wash.

  3. Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water.

  4. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent to the washing machine.

  5. Start the wash cycle.

  6. Once you complete the wash cycle, remove the shoes from the laundry bag or pillowcase and let them air dry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Tips for Cleaning Nike Shoes with Mesh

  • Always put your Nike Mesh shoes in a mesh laundry bag and ensure you tighten the bag close on to prevent damage.

  • Preferably use a laundry detergent for delicate laundry and set the washing machine on a washing program for a delicate cycle.

  • Use lukewarm water and preferably detergent for delicate washing or wool.

  • Rinse the shoes with cold water, and don't rub them.

  • Follow the washing instructions on the shoe labels of the Nike mesh shoes that state they shouldn't be washed at more than 30 degrees, ensuring they stay nice longer.

  • Remove the shoe laces before you wash them.

Conclusion on How to Clean Nike Shoes with Mesh

clean mesh shoes

Image Credit: youtube.com

Cleaning Nike shoes with mesh alongside other materials enables the shoes to last longer and look stylish. By reading our guide on how to clean mesh shoes without ruining it you can protect it while removing dirt – use a mild soap, no bleach, colored soft brush and last but not least let the shoes air dry.

But if you want an even easier fix to the gum-on-shoe problem, stuck-in dirt and debris, and any other sticky situations, please do yourself a favor and try on Vessi shoes! Being fully waterproof with no trace of harm to the environment, the Vessi shoes will be one of the best value additions to your shoe collection.

Therefore, if you are ready for a cleaning challenge or in the mood for something different, take proper care of your shoes and hit the town in style!

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Clean Nike Shoes with Mesh

1. How do I protect the mesh on my Nike running shoes from wear and tear?

You can use a protector mesh or shoe guard spray for the meshes of Nike running shoes in order to prevent them from getting used up very soon. Spray the mesh before wearing the shoes and repeat the process when necessary. You can also avoid wearing the shoes in rough or rocky terrain and also try to change shoes often to give each set of shoes a longer lifespan.

2. Can I use a hair dryer or direct heat to dry my Nike shoes with mesh?

No, it is not advisable to use a hair dryer, heater, or any other direct heat source to dry Nike shoes with mesh because it weakens the nature of the shoe’s mesh and alters the shape of the shoes. In its stead, it should be allowed to dry out at a normal temperature, not under the sun or near places that are incredibly hot.

3. How do I remove odour from my Nike shoes with mesh?

Most Nike shoes with mesh may be washed with warm water and vinegar, baking soda, and water to eliminate odor. Wearing the shoes, it is recommended that that the shoes in the mixture for several hours or overnight before rinsing and drying. You can also use odor eliminating sprays or inserts, or even were out different pairs of shoes to give the other pair a chance to air.

4. How often should I clean my Nike shoes with mesh?

Nike shoes with mesh should be cleaned after every use and especially when one washes the shoes. Cleaning the shoes is important to remove the dirt and stains that may make the shoes look terrible and may affect their performance. It is also wise to spray the mesh with a waterproofing solution or use a repellent to avoid staining and water damage.

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