Here's My Favorite Way to Clean Shoes After a Rainy Day

There’s something refreshing about a rainy day—until you look down and see your poor shoes covered in mud, water stains, and who knows what else. But don’t worry! I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to rescue my shoes from post-rain disaster and bring them back to their original glory. Whether you’re dealing with sneakers, leather loafers, or suede boots, here’s my favourite method to clean up after the storm.

Step 1: Brush Off That Dirt and Mud

The first step to saving your shoes is to tackle the obvious mess. Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to gently remove loose dirt and mud from the surface and soles.

Pro Tip: Let the mud dry slightly before brushing—it’s much easier to handle when it’s crumbly, and you’ll avoid smearing wet muck everywhere.

Step 2: Dry Them the Right Way

Shoes need time to dry, but the way you dry them matters. Stuff them with newspaper or clean cloths to absorb moisture and help maintain their shape. Keep them away from direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers—trust me, nothing good comes from melted glue or warped leather.

Why It’s Crucial: Proper drying prevents bad odours and keeps your shoes looking (and smelling) fresh for longer.

Step 3: Break Out the Sneaker Cleaning Kit

For a deep clean, my go-to is a sneaker cleaning kit. These kits are specifically designed for shoes and usually include a gentle cleaning solution, a brush, and a microfiber cloth. They’re safe to use on most materials, from canvas to leather.

How to Use It:

Apply the cleaning solution to the brush.

Gently scrub in circular motions, focusing on stained or muddy areas.
Wipe away any excess with a microfiber cloth.
Repeat as needed for tougher stains.

Step 4: Tackle Water Stains on Leather or Suede

Water stains on leather or suede require a bit of extra TLC. For leather, evenly wipe the entire surface with a damp cloth and let it dry naturally—this helps prevent uneven watermarks. Suede is a bit trickier; use a suede brush to gently restore the texture and lift the nap.

Pro Tip: If the stains are stubborn, a suede eraser or specialized suede cleaner can work wonders.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Soles

Rainy days can leave soles looking downright grimy. Use the brush from your cleaning kit or a stiff-bristle brush to scrub away dirt. If you’ve got white soles, a magic eraser will have them looking brand new in no time.

Step 6: Protect Your Hard Work

Once your shoes are clean and dry, apply a waterproof spray. This creates a barrier against future water damage and stains, which is especially handy during rainy seasons.

Pro Tip: Apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and let the shoes dry completely before wearing them.

Step 7: Refresh the Inside

Rain can do a number on the inside of your shoes, leaving them damp and a little, well…funky. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside and let it sit overnight to absorb any lingering moisture and odours. Just make sure to shake out the powder before slipping them back on.

Closing Thoughts

Cleaning shoes after a rainy day doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right tools and techniques—like a trusty sneaker cleaning kit and proper drying methods—you can keep your footwear looking fresh and fabulous. The extra effort is well worth it when you see your shoes looking as good as new.

Rainy days may mess up your shoes, but with this routine, you’ll have them back in tip-top shape in no time. Your shoes (and your feet) will thank you!