How to Clean Your Skechers: Answering Your Top Questions
This definitive guide answers all your questions about how to clean and store your Skechers shoes properly. Get a quick summary of essential dos and don'ts, find out if your pair is machine washable, and learn the expert steps for hand-washing specialty materials and ensuring long-term care through proper storage.
Jul 29, 2025
You love the feeling of slipping on a fresh, comfortable pair of Skechers. But how do you keep them looking as good as they feel, day after day? Proper shoe care is the secret to extending the life of your favorite footwear, ensuring they continue to deliver the signature comfort and style you count on.
Every step you take introduces your shoes to dirt, dust, and the elements. Regular cleaning doesn't just improve their appearance—it protects the materials and innovative technologies that make them uniquely Skechers. In this guide, we'll answer your biggest questions about how to care for every pair you own.
Every step you take introduces your shoes to dirt, dust, and the elements. Regular cleaning doesn't just improve their appearance—it protects the materials and innovative technologies that make them uniquely Skechers. In this guide, we'll answer your biggest questions about how to care for every pair you own.
Quick Guide: The Dos and Don'ts of Skechers Care
In a hurry? Here are the most important things to remember:
- DO check for the "Machine Washable" icon on the product detail page or original packaging before washing. When in doubt, hand wash!
- DO use a laundry bag or pillowcase for machine washable styles.
- DO use cold water and a gentle cycle.
- DO let your shoes air dry completely before wearing or storing.
- DON'T ever put your Skechers in a machine dryer.
- DON'T use bleach or hot water.
- DON'T submerge light-up shoes in water.
The Importance of Keeping Your Skechers Clean
Your Skechers are designed to be there for you, offering comfort and support wherever you go. Because they work so hard, they naturally pick up the everyday elements that can cause them to wear out faster if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning isn't just about making them look good; it helps protect their materials and technologies, ensuring they continue to perform their best and keep that fresh, comfortable feel.
Can I Wash My Skechers in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can—if they are one of our specially designed machine washable styles! We know life gets busy, so we made many of our most popular shoes easy to clean for effortless care.
First things first: how do you know if your pair can go in the wash? Always check for the "Machine Washable" icon, which you can find on the shoe's product detail page on our website or on its original packaging. If you see that icon, you're good to go!
First things first: how do you know if your pair can go in the wash? Always check for the "Machine Washable" icon, which you can find on the shoe's product detail page on our website or on its original packaging. If you see that icon, you're good to go!
For styles that are confirmed machine washable, follow these four simple steps:
- Prep Your Shoes: If your shoes have laces, you can remove them to ensure a more even clean. Gently tap the soles together to knock off any loose dirt or mud.
- Bag Them Up: Place your Skechers in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase. This protects both your shoes and your washing machine during the cycle.
- Wash on Gentle: Use the gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
- Air Dry Completely: This is the most important step! Once the wash is done, take your shoes out of the bag and let them air dry completely.
How Do I Hand Wash My Skechers?
For styles that aren't machine washable or are made from delicate materials, hand washing is the best and safest approach.
How to Clean Fabric, Mesh, or Canvas Skechers
- Create a Solution: Mix a few drops of mild laundry detergent with warm water.
- Wipe Them Down: Dip a soft cloth or a clean brush into the solution and gently scrub the shoe's surface.
- Rinse Carefully: Use a separate, clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue.
- Air Dry: Let them air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat.
How to Clean Leather Skechers
- Use a Leather Cleaner: Apply a cleaner specifically designed for leather using a soft cloth.
- Condition Periodically: To keep the leather supple, consider applying a leather lotion or oil after cleaning.
- Protect from Water: Before wearing them in wet conditions, treat them with a water-proofer spray.
How to Clean Suede or Nubuck Skechers
- Start Dry: Use a suede brush to gently brush away loose dirt and dust before cleaning.
- Apply a Specialized Cleaner: Use a cleaning product made specifically for suede and nubuck.
- Protect Your Pair: A water-proofer spray for suede can help shield them from moisture and stains.
A Quick Guide to Skechers Shoe Care
| Shoe Material/Type | Best Cleaning Method | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Washable Styles | Machine Wash (Gentle, Cold) | Air dry only. Confirm it's washable via the icon first. |
| Fabric, Mesh, Canvas | Hand Wash | Use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. |
| Leather | Hand Wash | Use a dedicated leather lotion or cleaner. |
| Suede / Nubuck | Hand Wash | Use a special suede brush and cleaner. |
Best Cleaning Method
Machine Washable Styles:
Machine Wash (Gentle, Cold)
Fabric, Mesh, Canvas:
Hand Wash
Leather:
Hand Wash
Suede / Nubuck:
Hand Wash
Key Tip
Machine Washable Styles:
Air dry only. Confirm it's washable via the icon first.
Fabric, Mesh, Canvas:
Use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution.
Leather:
Use a dedicated leather lotion or cleaner.
Suede / Nubuck:
Use a special suede brush and cleaner.
Do Specialty Skechers Need Different Care?
Yes, some of our shoes have unique features that require specific care to keep them working perfectly.
- Light-Up Shoes: To protect the battery and lighting, never machine wash or submerge light-up shoes. Gently clean the outside with a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water.
- Skechers Memory Foam™: If your shoes have our famous cushioned insoles, allow them to air dry for at least 10 to 12 hours after cleaning to ensure the foam is completely dry.
- Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins®: If your pair isn't marked as machine washable, hand wash them following the steps for their primary material to protect the exclusive Heel Pillow™.
- Skechers Foamies®: Hand wash with cold water and mild soap. Let them air dry in the shade, as direct sunlight can warp the material.
How Should I Store My Skechers Properly?
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning for maintaining the shape, comfort, and longevity of your shoes.
- Clean and Dry First: Always make sure your shoes are completely clean and dry before you store them. Storing dirty or damp shoes can lead to mildew and permanent stains.
- Find a Cool, Dark Place: Keep your Skechers in a closet or room with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight.
- Give Them Space to Breathe: Avoid sealing shoes in plastic bags or airtight containers. The original shoe box is a great option for short-term storage.
- Maintain Their Shape: To help your shoes keep their original form, consider using shoe trees. Avoid stacking shoes on top of one another, which can crush the uppers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Your Skechers
If you can't find the "Machine Washable" icon and are unsure, the safest approach is always to hand wash them gently. This will protect your shoes regardless of their material.
The intense heat from a dryer can damage the glues that hold your shoes together, compromise the structure of cushioning technologies, and cause materials to shrink or lose their shape. Air drying is the safest method.
Ensuring your shoes are completely dry is the best first step. For extra freshness, you can use a product like our Skechers Odor Eliminator Spray or place cedar shoe trees inside to absorb moisture and odor.
Yes. You can gently hand wash the insoles with mild soap and water. Be sure to let them air dry completely for 10-12 hours before placing them back in your shoes.
Step Into Freshness!
Taking a few moments to properly care for your Skechers is the best way to ensure they provide lasting comfort and style. By following these simple cleaning and storage tips, you'll keep your favorite pairs looking and feeling great, ready for every step of your journey.
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