How to Bleach Gym Shoes

Gym shoes tend to get dirty, scuffed and sweaty (causing smell and bacteria growth) from exercising or training. Cleaning gym shoes with regular soap and water doesn't always produce the best results. Soap and water won't kill germs or bacteria the way bleach will. When choosing bleach, make sure to use only color-safe bleach on shoes that are not white.

Things You'll Need

• Washing machine
• Soap
• Bleach
• Small bowl
• Water

Instructions

1. Remove the shoe laces from the shoes. Set aside to clean later.

2. Remove any large pieces of dirt and debris on the gym shoes. Tapping the shoes on a wall or together will help to knock dirt from the soles.

3. Start the washing machine as you normally would. Put the shoes into the basin of the washing machine and add soap.

4. Add bleach to the bleach dispenser of the washing machine until it reaches the fill line. Close the lid, and let the machine run through its cycles. Remove the shoes and set aside to dry. Using a dryer to dry the shoes may cause shrinkage.

5. Mix 1 part bleach to 1 part water directly into a small bowl.

6. Place the laces into the bowl for 20 minutes. Drain the mixture and rinse the laces with water. Set on a flat surface and allow to dry completely.

7. Relace the shoes.

Tips & Warnings

• If the shoes are colored, use color-safe bleach. For white shoes, use regular bleach.

• Never mix bleach with ammonia.

References

• Clorox Bleach