Sneakers are high-value thrift finds—Nike, Jordan, New Balance models can flip for serious profit. But condition matters enormously. A proper cleaning can add $20-50 to a pair's value; improper cleaning can ruin them.
The key: know your materials. Suede, leather, mesh, and rubber all require different approaches.
The Dry-First Rule
Always start with dry methods before introducing any liquid. Many sneaker materials (especially suede) are water-sensitive. The escalation ladder:
1. Dry brush — Remove loose dirt and debris
2. Eraser/dry treatment — Lift scuffs and marks
3. Damp cloth — Spot clean water-safe areas
4. Wet cleaning — Only if necessary, only on appropriate materials
Material-by-Material Guide
Suede & Nubuck
Risk level: High — water causes permanent damage
Method: Dry brush with suede brush (or clean toothbrush) to remove dirt and restore nap. For scuffs, use a rubber eraser or suede eraser. For stubborn spots, try a suede-specific cleaner applied to cloth—never directly on shoe.
Never: Use water. It flattens the nap, sets stains, and causes watermarks.
Leather
Risk level: Medium — durable but needs conditioning
Method: Wipe with damp cloth to remove surface dirt. For scuffs, use leather cleaner on a soft cloth. Condition after cleaning (see leather care guide).
Polish: For dress shoes and boots, matching polish restores color and shine.
Canvas & Mesh
Risk level: Low — generally water-safe
Method: Remove laces and insoles. Scrub with soft brush and mild soap solution. Rinse with damp cloth (don't soak). Air dry away from direct heat.
Note: Check for color bleeding on darker fabrics before wet cleaning.
Rubber Soles & Midsoles
Risk level: Very Low — most forgiving
Method: Magic Eraser works wonders on rubber. Scrub scuffs and marks. For yellowed white soles, see whitening section below.
Whitening Yellowed Soles
White midsoles yellow with age and oxidation. Restoration is possible but time-intensive.
Salon Care 40 Method
Apply Salon Care 40 Volume cream (or similar developer cream) to yellowed soles. Wrap in plastic wrap. Place in direct sunlight for 2-4 hours. Rinse and repeat as needed.
This method uses UV activation to reverse oxidation. Results vary—some yellowing is permanent. Test on inconspicuous area first.
Alternative: Retrobright
For severe yellowing, Retrobright (hydrogen peroxide + OxiClean) is more aggressive but riskier. Research thoroughly before attempting.
Removing Price Tag Marks
Thrift stores love writing prices directly on soles. Common removal methods:
Rubber soles: Magic Eraser removes most marker. For permanent marker, try rubbing alcohol or acetone-free nail polish remover.
Leather or fabric: Test any solvent in hidden area first. Rubbing alcohol often works but may affect finishes.
Stubborn marks: Sometimes partial removal is best. A faded mark is less objectionable than damaged material from aggressive cleaning.
Interior Cleaning
Remove insoles: Take out and clean separately. Sprinkle with baking soda, let sit overnight, shake out.
Interior lining: Wipe with damp cloth and mild soap. For odors, spray with vodka/water solution and air dry thoroughly.
Laces: Replace if heavily stained. New laces are cheap and significantly improve appearance. Otherwise, soak in OxiClean solution.
The ROI Question
Not every sneaker deserves full restoration. Apply the repair vs. sell as-is framework:
High-value models: Jordans, dunks, vintage runners worth $100+ cleaned up? Full restoration makes sense.
Common sneakers: Basic Nikes, Adidas standards—quick clean only. Don't spend an hour restoring a $30 pair.
Authentication: For high-value sneakers ($150+) selling on eBay, the Authenticity Guarantee program means zero fees and built-in buyer trust. Cleaning to authentication standards pays off.
Photo-Ready Presentation
After cleaning, stuff with tissue paper to maintain shape. Photograph with good lighting against clean background. Show sole condition clearly. See presentation guide for more.
Pressing & Presentation Guide
Make your inventory photo-ready for maximum appeal.