Are your trusty Gore Tex shoes looking a little worse for wear? These sturdy and waterproof shoes are a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, but they can quickly become dirty and stained from the elements. Cleaning Gore Tex shoes is a breeze and we’re here to guide you through it step-by-step.
So, how do you clean gore tex shoes?
Here are some tips for cleaning GORE-TEX shoes:
- Brush: Use a sponge or brush to remove loose dirt. For leather shoes, you can use a brush for leather.
- Water: Use lukewarm water and a small amount of liquid detergent. You can also use lukewarm soapy water to clean the insole.
- Avoid: Avoid using products with a high fat or oil content, bleach, fabric softener, fragrance, whitener, or colorants. Oil-based leather conditioners can clog the pores and ruin Gore-Tex.
- Dry: Rinse with warm water and air dry, avoiding the dryer. Drying on medium heat for about 40 to 50 minutes can also reactivate the dwr.
- Protect: Consider applying a protective spray.
You should not put GORE-TEX shoes in the washing machine because the GORE-TEX membrane has very small pores and can be destroyed in the washing machine.
So, grab those dirty kicks and let’s give them some much-needed love.
Remove the Foot Bed (if possible)
Contents
| 1. | Take off the Laces | Start by untying and removing the laces from your Gore-Tex shoes. This will make it easier to take out the footbed for cleaning. |
| 2. | Locate the Footbed | The footbed can be found inside the shoe, directly on top of the insole. It is usually a thin layer that provides cushioning and support and can be easily removed. |
| 3. | Easily Remove the Footbed | Gently pull up on one corner of the footbed and continue until it is completely removed from the shoe. Be careful not to damage or tear the footbed while taking it out. This step requires some finesse, so take your time. |
| 4. | Clean Your Footbed | To clean your footbed, use a mild soap and lukewarm water to scrub away any dirt or debris. For tougher stains, opt for a mild detergent specifically designed for cleaning shoes. Let the footbed air dry completely before placing it back in the shoe. |
| 5. | Tidy Up Inside the Shoe | While your footbed is drying, take the opportunity to shake out any dirt or debris that may have accumulated inside the shoe’s openings on the side. This will help prevent future build-up and keep your shoes clean. |
| 6. | Put Back Your Footbed and Lace Up | Once your footbed is completely dry, reinsert it into your Gore-Tex shoes. Make sure it is properly aligned and secure before retying your laces. This final step will make your shoes look and feel as good as new. |
In essence, removing the footbed from your Gore-Tex shoes for cleaning involves taking off the laces, locating and gently removing the footbed, cleaning it with a mild soap or detergent, tidying up inside the shoe, and carefully putting back the footbed and lacing it up.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean the footbed without damaging its material or compromising the waterproof abilities of your Gore-Tex shoes.
Shake Out Any Dirt or Gravel
Cleaning Gore-Tex shoes requires shaking off any dirt and gravel. This is an important step for getting a complete and effective clean. It’s easy for dirt and gravel to get stuck inside the shoe, especially in the cracks and under the heel. This makes it hard for soap or cleanser to get in and get rid of all the waste. This could make the cleaning job less than satisfactory and possibly leave behind smells that are tough to get rid of.
Moving any dirt and gravel out of Gore-Tex shoes is another way to keep the material safe from damage. Small rocks or other dirt can rub against the cloth and tear or wear it down as you scrub the shoe with soap or detergent. By cleaning off any dirt before you start, you can avoid this damage and keep your Gore-Tex shoes in good shape, which will ensure they last a long time.
Also, getting dirt and gravel out of Gore-Tex shoes before cleaning them is an important part of keeping them waterproof. Even though Gore Tex is known for being strong and waterproof, dirt and gravel can still damage it. If you leave these things inside your shoe, they can tear or poke holes in the fabric, making it less able to keep your feet dry.
Cleaning and removing any dirt or gravel from Gore-Tex shoes helps them last longer by protecting the material and keeping the waterproofing. When you clean your shoes, they will last longer if there is less dirt on them. In the end, this means that your Gore-Tex shoes will last longer and cost less in the long run.
Wipe the Outside With a Cloth
When it comes to keeping your Gore Tex shoes clean, a gentle and consistent approach is crucial. Follow these steps for effectively wiping the outside of your Gore Tex shoes with a cloth to maintain their cleanliness and quality:
Gather necessary supplies
To properly clean your Gore Tex shoes, you will need mild detergent or specialized shoe cleaner, a cloth or sponge, and access to water.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach as they can damage the Gore Tex membrane.
Remove dirt and debris
Before wiping down your shoes, remove any dirt or debris stuck in the grooves or crevices. This will prevent damage to the material and allow for a more thorough clean.
Use a damp cloth or sponge
Dampen your cloth or sponge with water and add a small amount of mild detergent or shoe cleaner.
Gently wipe the outside of your shoes in circular motions, paying attention to any areas with dirt or stains.
Rinse and dry
Once you have wiped down the entire shoe, rinse off any remaining soap residue with clean water.
Do not machine wash or use direct heat sources to dry Gore Tex shoes. Instead, allow them to air dry fully before wearing again.
Apply waterproofing spray
To maintain the waterproof capabilities of your Gore Tex shoes, use a waterproofing spray specifically designed for this material. This will enhance water repellency and help keep your shoes clean for longer.
Prevent odor
To prevent odor buildup in your Gore Tex shoes, make sure to allow them to fully air dry between uses. You can also use odor-neutralizing products such as activated charcoal inserts or odor-fighting sprays.
By following these steps and using gentle cleaning techniques, you can effectively wipe down the outside of your Gore Tex shoes with a cloth to maintain their cleanliness and quality.
Use a Soft-Bristled Brush
To maintain the quality and appearance of your Gore-Tex shoes, regular cleaning is necessary. However, using the wrong type of brush or harsh chemicals can do more harm than good. A friend of mine learned this the hard way when she used a stiff-bristled brush on her new Gore-Tex sneakers.
Not only did it damage the fabric, but it also left unsightly scratches on the surface. She had to spend extra time and money trying to fix or replace them.
But with a soft-bristled brush, you can rest assured that your Gore-Tex shoes will remain in pristine condition. The soft bristles gently remove dirt and stains without causing any damage. Plus, using a mild detergent and soap ensures that your shoes are thoroughly cleaned without any risk of discoloration or damage.
So remember, when it comes to cleaning Gore-Tex shoes, always use a soft-bristled brush and mild cleaning products. This will not only keep your shoes looking brand new but also prolong their lifespan.
Clean the Soles With a Mild Detergent
When it comes to keeping your Gore-Tex shoes clean, you want to make sure you use a mild detergent that won’t harm the fabric or cause any discoloration. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as they can break down the waterproof membrane and ruin the breathability of the shoes.
Instead, opt for a gentle detergent that is specifically designed for outdoor gear or delicate fabrics. These types of detergents are made to effectively clean without causing any damage to sensitive materials like Gore-Tex. Some great options to consider are Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel, Grangers Performance Wash, and Gear Aid Revivex Pro Cleaner.
If you decide to use a washing machine to clean your Gore-Tex shoes, make sure you use a front-loading machine and select a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water or high temperatures as this can harm the Gore-Tex fabric and affect its waterproofing abilities.
For those who prefer hand-washing their shoes, mix lukewarm water with a small amount of gentle detergent in a bucket or sink. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the soles and remove any dirt or stains.
After cleaning, be sure to thoroughly rinse off any soap residue and let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing them near direct heat sources such as a dryer or heater as this can also damage the Gore-Tex fabric.
So, when it comes to cleaning the soles of your Gore-Tex shoes, it’s crucial to use a mild detergent and stay away from harsh chemicals and high temperatures.
Leave Your Shoes to Air Dry
Typically, it may take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours for Gore-Tex shoes to fully air dry after a good cleaning. However, this time frame can vary depending on several factors such as the shoe’s material, weather conditions, and humidity levels in the air.
When leaving your shoes out to dry, it’s crucial to select a well-ventilated area with proper air circulation. This will help expedite the drying process and prevent any unpleasant musty smells from lingering. You can even stuff newspaper or paper towels inside the shoes to absorb any excess moisture.
To give you a better idea of how long it might take for your Gore-Tex shoes to air dry, here is an estimated timeframe based on different weather conditions:
| Weather Conditions | Average Drying Time | Factors That May Influence Drying Time |
| Sunny and Dry | 24 hours | Good air circulation and low humidity |
| Cloudy and Humid | 48 hours | High humidity and poor air circulation |
| Rainy or Snowy | 72+ hours | Excessive moisture and inadequate ventilation |
It’s essential to remember that Gore-Tex shoes are designed to withstand outdoor elements, including getting wet. However, excessive exposure to water and extended drying times can potentially cause damage to the material and affect the shoe’s performance.
Tips For Gore-Tex Care
They require specific care to maintain their waterproof and breathable properties. Here are some tips for caring and cleaning your Gore-Tex shoes to ensure their longevity and performance:
- Use gentle detergents and avoid harsh chemicals: When it comes to cleaning your Gore-Tex shoes, it is crucial to utilize mild detergents and steer clear of harsh chemicals or bleach. These substances can harm the material and affect the performance of the shoes.
- Understand the construction of Gore-Tex shoes: Gore-Tex footwear has a unique structure with a waterproof and breathable membrane wedged between outer and inner layers. Having a thorough understanding of this construction will assist you in cleaning them properly without causing damage.
- Gather all necessary supplies: To clean your Gore-Tex shoes, you will need a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water. These items will enable you to remove dirt and stains without harming the material.
- Air dry at room temperature: After cleaning your Gore-Tex shoes, allow them to air dry at room temperature. Avoid using direct heat sources as they can damage the material. Once completely dry, apply a waterproofing spray specifically designed for Gore-Tex footwear to maintain their waterproof properties.
- Prevent odors from building up: To prevent odors from accumulating in your Gore-Tex shoes, ensure that they are fully dry between uses, use moisture-wicking insoles, rotate them regularly, and store them in a well-ventilated area. You can also use activated charcoal inserts or sachets of baking soda to absorb any unwanted smells.
- Avoid machine washing: It is not recommended to machine wash your Gore-Tex shoes as this can damage the material and affect their performance.
By following these cleaning practices and incorporating proper care routines, you can maintain the performance and longevity of your Gore-Tex shoes.
Keep in mind that these shoes are designed for outdoor activities and may get dirty easily, but with proper care, they can continue to keep your feet dry and comfortable for many years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining the cleanliness of your Gore-Tex shoes is crucial for their performance and longevity.
Regular cleaning with appropriate materials and techniques can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors. Remember to always use a soft-bristled brush and mild detergents to avoid causing damage to the material.
By incorporating these tips into your care routine, you can ensure that your trusty Gore-Tex shoes will continue to keep your feet dry and comfortable for countless adventures ahead.
