How to clean climbing shoes By cleaning and deodorizing your climbing shoes with Footwear Refresh, you’ll not only help them look good as new but also ensure they Aug 21, 2023 · – Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning and Removing Dirt and Grime from your Climbing Shoes. How Do You Deodorize Climbing Shoes? If your climbing shoes are really bringing the stink between cleanings, then you might want to start deodorizing them. There are loads of benefits to keeping your shoes clean, including increasing the longevity of your shoes, keeping them performing at their best and to keep them smelling fresh(er)! I've said it before: ask him to wear socks thin, below-the-ankle socks. There are two methods of cleaning climbing shoes, machine or hand wash. May 23, 2024 · The Bottom Line Cleaning your climbing shoes doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, I share some of my favorite methods on how to keep shoes looking, and smelling, squeaky clean. Here is your guide on how to clean rock climbing shoes! Nov 24, 2024 · As you can see, washing and cleaning your climbing shoes is a relatively simple process. As the first step, you should remove all foreign materials (mud, earth, magnesite) from the outside and then move on to the interior. Just place around 2 teaspoons of powder inside each shoe with lukewarm water and scrub. While, yes, some shoes are machine washable, I’d recommend using your best judgement here. Easy how-to and tutorial for cleaning or washing dirty climbing shoes. I've heard sticking your shoes in the freezer for a prolonged period of time will kill bacteria, but I find it just puts the smell into limbo until they thaw and bloom again. Then, bacteria starts to grow inside your nice and sweaty climbing shoes, causing them to stink. I couldn't really tell any detrimental effect on these shoes and they came out clean and relatively good smelling. If you let your shoes get bad enough, there’s really not much you can do except buy another pair (see How Much Are Rock Climbing Shoes?). A little prevention can help keep your shoes looking and smelling cleaner: On the approach, keep feet clean by wearing closed shoes rather than sandals. Cleaning climbing shoes properly is crucial to maintain their integrity and avoid damage. However, over time, they can accumulate dirt, sweat, and odor, diminishing their performance and lifespan. Basic Cleaning Techniques Basic cleaning should be done regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keeping your climbing shoes in optimal condition. Having the right tools and supplies will ensure that you can effectively clean your climbing shoes and maintain their performance and longevity. This has no impact on "feel" or climbing ability. Clean gently but thoroughl Sep 16, 2022 · Five Tips to Keep Your Climbing Shoes Clean. I ended up spending many hours doing research and it came down to two option Oct 27, 2024 · Climbing shoes are essential gear for climbers, providing the grip and support needed to tackle challenging routes. I do this regularly so my shoes have never smelled. 11 CHEAP Ways To Make Your Climbing Sho My method is to let the shoes soak overnight in a bucket of water with soap/detergent, then scrub everywhere with an old toothbrush in the bucket and rinse and air dry. They also all have downsides. Doing a few smart things before, during, and after climbing will help keep both your feet and your footwear cleaner, saving you time and effort spent cleaning them later on. Give Your Shoes a Bath Also I set the spinning to the lowest setting. Please correct me or give feedback. Being intentional about footwork. Like most synthetic shoes, they tend to absorb a huge amount of sweat and stink excessively. Nov 19, 2024 · Additionally, proper cleaning and maintenance can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, keeping your shoes fresh and odor-free. We put them in mesh bags, and do a gentle cycle in cold water with a small amount of unscented soap, and let them air dry. Guide to Hand Washing & Cleaning Rock Climbing and Jul 10, 2023 · Easy how-to and tutorial for cleaning or washing dirty climbing shoes. Don't forget to stuff them with newspapers while they're drying (to keep their shape). Shop Climbing Shoes. We wash our shoes in the washing machine, usually twice a year. There are a few different ways you can do this. This guide will not only help you keep your shoes clean, but also get rid of the smell and help to make your shoes last longer. I have a pair of modern leather-and-fancy-rubber climbing shoes made by a major brand. How to clean climbing shoes: Cleaning climbing shoes is a simple process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. Follow the detailed steps below to clean your climbing shoes and get rid of stench and dirt. Wipe the soles of your climbing shoes regularly. Feb 12, 2013 · How do you clean rock-climbing shoes, without ruining them? Let me be more specific. Dec 10, 2021 · Learn how to prevent and remove the stink from your climbing shoes with four methods: Lysol, hand wash, baking soda, and rubbing alcohol. Oct 25, 2024 · Yes - to help keep your shoes at their best and for the sake of everyone around you, it is best to clean your climbing shoes. May 6, 2023 · Cleaning Your Climbing Shoes. I will give you all the guidance you need to maintain your climbing shoes in optimal condition, whether you are trying to prolong the life of your most beloved pair or have recently descended a challenging route. They take a while to dry, so you might have to switch out the newspaper. Stick to synthetics. These methods do not make shoes suddenly smell better–they’re simply ways to further reduce the chance of smelly shoes. Some bouldering pads have the carpet square built in. To clean chalk off shoes, you will need a few basic materials. Cleaning climbing shoes is important to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan. Then stuff them with newspaper and let them air-dry. Mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water in a bowl What you should know firsthand is that climbing shoes come in two main variants: leather and synthetic, and the way you should care for them greatly depends on the materials they were made from. From proper washing techniques to smart storage solutions, this article provides everything you need to keep your climbing shoes fresh and Though I never had an issue with my white shoes turning yellow while drying. For velcro shoes, leave the velcro loose but closed. Keeping Climbing Shoes Clean and Odor-Free. This method worked Dec 21, 2021 · If you do choose to clean your shoes in the washing machine, we’d recommend following these guidelines: Don’t machine-wash leather shoes. Step 1: Best ways to stop the smell is to take precautionary steps. Keeping Climbing and Bouldering Shoes Clean. Learn how dirty shoes can affect grip and safety while climbing, and find out how proper care can save money in the long run. Mar 23, 2025 · If you’re wondering how to clean rock climbing shoes, the best way to clean them is to hand wash climbing shoes with a bit of soap, scrub them with an old toothbrush and then air dry them 100%. Get your cleaning tools. The best way to get your climbing shoes clean is to keep them clean. If you're climbing, give the shoe a quick wipe with your socks or on your pants. It may seem like a quick fix, but it could also lead to a ruined pair of shoes. Sep 29, 2020 · Hand washing your shoes is probably the best way to clean any pair of climbing shoes. Submerge your shoes in the water and then, using a toothbrush , lightly scrub the dirt and grime off of the shoes. Our favorite pair of climbing shoes are our babies, one of our most precious possessions, and our trustworthy sidekicks on the rock climbing wall. Find out how to wash climbing shoes safely and when to avoid it, and discover the best products for odor elimination. To clean, I'll use warm soapy water and elbow grease, and get up in there. The first step of the climbing shoe cleaning process is to air your shoes out. Fill your sink with warm (not hot) water and add just a drop of dish soap. 3. Pros: no smell, insides stay clean, no slimy feeling inside shoes, more comfortable, foot and heel don't slide around when things get sweaty (basically all the reasons you wear socks with your other shoes) Oct 4, 2024 · Discover essential tips for washing and maintaining your climbing shoes to enhance their performance and lifespan. May 5, 2023 · Washing your dirty or smelly climbing shoes. This prevents your feet from heating up and sweating more, and it starts airing out/drying your shoes, too. Mar 4, 2021 · Learn how to clean your climbing shoes with different methods for synthetic and leather uppers. It’s no secret that after a few sweaty sessions, climbing shoes have a tendency to STINK. Proper care ensures better performance and hygiene. Here are the essential cleaning materials and gear maintenance May 17, 2022 · How to clean stinky climbing shoes? Climbing shoes stink because of bacteria that grows and collects inside the warm and moist environment. Eventually, nasty stuff will start growing inside- you don’t want that. Proceed with caution. Here are some tips Clean your shoes regularly: Keeping your climbing shoes clean is essential to maintain their grip and prevent odors from building up. As with any shoe, knowing how to clean climbing shoes is all about good habits and prevention. I clean my shoes every 2 or 3 months or so. Nov 10, 2023 · Learn how to prevent and fix smelly climbing shoes with natural and effective solutions. If you don’t use any detergent, you’ll just end up washing the shoe without cleaning it. A gentle rinse, a little scrubbing, and proper drying do wonders for both odor control and longevity. Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to gather the necessary materials. For a deeper clean: How to clean your climbing shoes. Furthermore, cleaning climbing shoes is not as easy as cleaning conventional streetwear shoes. Climbing shoes are an essential part of every climber’s gear, providing grip and stability while scaling walls and rocks. Keep the water lukewarm, skip the harsh chemicals, and store your shoes in a dry place. In addition to 5 ways to help remove the stink from your climbing shoes, I also included one thing you should NOT do. For many climbers, hand wash is the best way to go. Hey Everyone, I really stank up my shoes and in this episode Ill show you how I got them smelling fresh and clean. Take your shoes off between climbs. A small carpet or towel is handy when dealing with dirt or sand at crags. We've never had an issue with this, and it makes the rubber super sticky again! New shoes, old shoes, doesn't matter! Machine wash them with a very low program (something like silk program with max. Giving your climbing shoes a scrub is a great way to get extra life out of your shoes. So, go with mild ones to make your climbing shoes squeaky clean. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your climbing shoes effectively: Sep 22, 2021 · It’ll help remove the tiny sweat particles that water can’t and “clean” the shoe. Mar 6, 2023 · Your shoes are often covered in chalk. Remove excess dirt and debris : It is mostly unadvisable to wash your climbing shoes directly without prior use of a soft brush to clean any sticky dirt stuck on it. Clean gently but thoroughl Dec 11, 2015 · Additional Methods to Prevent Smelly Climbing Shoes. Dec 30, 2022 · Climbing shoes stink – it’s just that simple. All you need is a soft-bristled brush and some soapy water. Oct 4, 2024 · Discover how to keep your climbing shoes clean and fresh for optimal performance! This article covers essential cleaning techniques for both leather and synthetic shoes, tips to tackle odors, and maintenance strategies to prolong their lifespan. HOW DO I CLEAN DIRTY CLIMBING SHOES? Climbing shoes should be cleaned using a soft brush and water, combined with mild soap. 1. Jun 17, 2020 · • Keeping your shoes as clean as possible will also extend their life. • If your shoes do get caked with mud or dust, you can use a damp cloth to wipe off any debris or gunk. Wash the shoes in their own load (or with other shoes). Also I made a habbit of carrying my shoes around on the outside of my bag with a biner and using shoe disinfectant right after climbing, which helps a lot too! In this video, I will show you the best ways to clean your rock climbing shoes. However, leaving chalk buildup on climbing shoes can cause damage and impair performance over time. Find out how to prevent bad odors, damage, and shrinkage with baking soda, tea bags, dryer sheets, and foot powder. I wipe down the insides of my climbing shoes after every session with Lysol sanitizing wipes. Letting your feet breathe between routes. Ensure your footwear is Jan 13, 2024 · I'll walk you through the entire cleaning process "How to Clean Your Climbing Shoes" step-by-step in this complete guide. Here are the tips you need to do when cleaning your shoes and removing dirt. Air drying is the most common way to remove foot odor from shoes. Materials Needed. Use mild detergents, avoid machine washing, clean the shoe's interior, and don't over-clean to ensure that your climbing shoes last longer and provide the necessary grip and support required for safe climbing. 20 degree celsius). Climb with relatively clean feet (easier for the gym obviously than 4 mile scambles to the crag) I also use it on my trail running shoes since the stink from my . Jul 19, 2024 · The correct steps to clean climbing shoes include removing dirt, cleaning the upper andsole, and cleaning the inside of the shoe. If your scrub your feet pretty often it also helps slow the buildup on your shoes. For more details on selecting and fitting rock shoes, see Rock Climbing Shoes: How to Choose. Let the shoe sit for a few hours or days depending on how dirty your shoe is and then wash with cold water. Place them out of direct sunlight in a well-ventilated space or fresh air for at least an hour or so if you’re running short on time. You should be proactive about cleaning, because it's an uphill battle. If possible, avoid doing any approaches or descents while wearing your climbing shoes. Regular cleaning process: 1) Air climbing shoes out. Lightly spray with Lysol, Dettol, Febreeze, or OdoBan And that's How To Take Care Of Your Climbing Sh Hi all! Today I'm tackling one of those common woes of us climbers that doesn't really get covered a bunch And that's How To Take Care Of Your Apr 1, 2024 · Materials Needed for Cleaning Climbing Shoes. And if you use a strong detergent, it’ll damage the glue and structural integrity. I hope this episode helps, don't forget to Nov 23, 2023 · Not sure how to clean your climbing shoes? Our guide walks you through 2 simple methods and offers must-know tips for deodorizing smelly shoes. Nov 16, 2019 · How to Clean Climbing Shoes: Prevention. Feb 16, 2025 · To clean climbing shoes properly, here are some extra tips that should be followed: If the odor is a problem, you can sprinkle baking soda with wash water to help neutralize the odor. Start by cleaning off any chalk or mud from the outside of your shoes. Keep them living their best life by: Wiping off chalk before/after a climb. Cover the climbing shoe with the baking soda paste using your hands or brushing on with a toothbrush. Start with prevention by using moisture absorbing shoe deodorizers like Boot Bananas and keeping your shoes out of your bag as often as possible. Feb 12, 2025 · No one wants to part with their climbing shoes that they have taken on countless climbs! Footwear Refresh is a powerful deodorizing cleaner designed to freshen and prevent odor build-up in climbing shoes. These Jul 16, 2024 · Putting your climbing shoes in the washing machine is a bad idea; Wash your shoes after use and deploy a climbing shoe deodorizer to deal with the odor ; For a climber, there’s little better than the feeling of your new rock climbing shoes having perfectly moulded to your feet, giving you both grip and dexterity on the wall. For lace-up shoes, tie off or remove laces before washing. They fit exactly the way I want and the rubber is still sound. But they reek like I exercise in them (with no socks) six days a week. This blog post will go over the importance of cleaning chalk off climbing shoes and the consequences of leaving it on. In this guide, we will explore the best practices … Continue reading How Cleaning climbing shoes is crucial for maintaining their grip and longevity. If you have synthetic shoes, dawn and a shoe toothbrush on the interior works wonders. Not only does the way climbing shoes are made not really allow for any ventilation, but climbers usually go sockless as well, which allows all that foot sweat to accumulate within the shoe’s interior. What I've tried: water, soap and brushing inside and outside baking powder, both dry and as a paste throwing them in my washing machine Also a handfull of different shoes deoderants and charcoal bags like bananafingers. Find out why cleaning your shoes is important for your health and performance, and get tips for leather and synthetic shoes. Clean your shoes regularly: Keeping your climbing shoes clean is essential to maintain their grip and prevent odors from building up. I believe some people also put their shoes in the washing machine, though I haven’t tried. Nov 22, 2021 · How do you clean climbing shoes with baking soda? Baking Soda Baking soda is an effective way to get rid of your smelly climbing shoe odor. This will not harm the shoes and get them sparkling clean. Mild soap or detergent; Soft-bristled brush Lots of posts about smelly shoes, its kinda like part of the climbing circle jerk around here, but seriously I'd like to get comprehensive on the ways to clean your shoes. Mar 12, 2020 · Find out how to choose the most suitable climbing shoe for you: how to choose climbing shoes How to store my climbing shoes We know that especially at the beginning, climbing shoes can be a cross and a delight for the user, as comfort is certainly not counted among the main features of this specific product. Dec 23, 2024 · It is best to clean your shoes in your sink or shower as you will need a supply of clean running water – but you can also clean your shoes outside with a bucket. I also use a Panasonic shoe deodorizer that at the very least circulates air inside the shoe to help dry them out after cleaning. Nov 8, 2021 · Some climbers swear by throwing their shoes in the washing machine. Once damp and soapy, brush lightly and then rinse off. Dirt, sweat, and oils can build up on the shoe's surface, reducing grip and leading to odor and fungal infections. Let the climbing shoe air dry in location with good airflow but outside of direct sunlight or high temperatures. Cleaning your climbing shoes is an essential part of caring for them. Here are some steps you can follow to clean climbing shoes: Brush off excess dirt and debris from the shoes using a soft-bristled brush. Here are some tips for cleaning your climbing shoes: What you need to clean your shoes. Jun 17, 2024 · Rock climbing shoes can get pretty dirty and smelly with all those sends over time. Then, you can freshen the rubber up by lightly cleaning the shoes with rubbing Apr 27, 2023 · Conclusion. Chalk, dust, mud and dirt kill friction. Learn how to tackle odors, improve grip, and prolong wear with a step-by-step cleaning guide, plus expert advice on materials to avoid. ozsiz nvlv vyj sdlpzzj htvlk wjezo ihc ievwv hrl frchw neg tohcfq xbshpt hgay qluppb