How to Clean Golf Shoes
A step by step guide to cleaning Golf Shoe Uppers and Outsoles
Golf shoes come in various materials, such as leather and synthetic uppers, each with its unique characteristics. Keeping both the uppers and outsoles clean is crucial for maintaining their performance and appearance. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to clean and care for both types of uppers and outsoles of your golf shoes.
Cleaning Leather Uppers:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Soft cloth
- Mild soap or specialized leather cleaner
- Warm water
- Soft-bristle brush (optional)
2. Remove Excess Dirt:
- Use a soft brush to gently remove loose dirt or debris from the leather uppers. Pay attention to seams and stitching.
3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution:
- Mix mild soap or specialized leather cleaner with warm water to create a soapy solution.
4. Gently Clean the Leather:
- Dampen a soft cloth with the soapy solution and clean the leather uppers in a gentle, circular motion. For stubborn stains, use a soft-bristle brush. Avoid excessive scrubbing.
5. Rinse and Dry:
- Rinse the leather uppers with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. Wipe them with a dry cloth to eliminate excess moisture.
6. Leather Conditioning:
- After the uppers have dried completely, apply a suitable leather conditioner to maintain their suppleness and protect against cracking.
Cleaning Synthetic Uppers:
1. Supplies:
- Soft cloth
- Mild soap or specialized synthetic shoe cleaner
- Warm water
2. Remove Excess Dirt:
- Use a soft brush to gently remove loose dirt or debris from the synthetic uppers.
3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution:
- Mix mild soap or specialized synthetic shoe cleaner with warm water.
4. Gently Clean the Synthetic Material:
- Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaning solution and gently clean the synthetic uppers. Avoid excessive scrubbing, as synthetic materials can be more sensitive to abrasion.
5. Rinse and Dry:
- Rinse the synthetic uppers with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. Wipe them with a dry cloth to eliminate excess moisture.
Outsole Care (For Both Leather and Synthetic Uppers):
1. Remove Excess Dirt:
- Use a soft brush to remove dirt and grass stuck in the cleats and grooves of the outsoles.
2. Soak and Scrub:
- Fill a basin with warm, soapy water. Soak the outsoles and scrub them with a soft brush to remove debris.
3. Rinse and Dry:
- Rinse the outsoles with clean water and let them air dry. Ensure the cleats are clear of any blockages to maintain proper traction.
Finally leave the Golf Shoe to Air Dry:
Let your golf shoes air dry at room temperature. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight, as they can cause the material to crack or lose its shape. Stuff the shoes with newspaper to help maintain their form and absorb moisture.
Polish and Protect:
After your golf shoes have dried completely, you can apply a suitable leather or synthetic shoe conditioner or protectant. This step will help keep the material supple and provide an additional layer of protection.
Storage:
Proper storage is essential. Keep your golf shoes in a cool, dry place, and use a shoe tree or maintain their shape. It's also a good idea to store them in a shoe bag to protect them from dust and damage.
By following these steps, you can ensure the uppers and outsoles of your golf shoes stay clean and well-maintained, no matter the material. This regular care will prolong the life of your shoes and ensure they provide the traction and comfort you need on the golf course. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations and care instructions for your specific golf shoe model to maintain their appearance and performance.