Cleaning
Why should I clean my shoes?
We often question why people clean their clothes after each use, their teeth twice a day, their car every couple of weeks, but for some reason our shoes are neglected! We are making this process more accessible to become a part of our routine.
The stigma of having to look 'fresh' all the time can also be draining on your mental, and your pockets. By being able to clean your shoes, you can look good, and feel good about it too!
Millions of shoes are also disposed of (prematurely) each year, so by keeping your kicks clean and in your rotation, you're also helping the planet.
How often should I clean my shoes?
As often as you can. Regular cleaning, depending on wear, is recommended. Cleaning your sneakers every few weeks or as soon as they get dirty helps maintain their appearance and prolongs their lifespan.
How to prevent stains from setting in?
The best way to prevent stains from setting is to clean your sneakers as soon as possible after they get stained. Regular maintenance and using the Sneaker Protector can also help keep your sneakers looking fresh.
Are there any tips for dealing with oil stains?
For oil stains, it’s recommended to apply cornstarch or talcum powder to the stain first to absorb the oil. Let it sit for a few hours before brushing it off. Follow up with a cleaning solution to remove any remaining residue.
What should I do if my shoes have ink stains?
Ink stains require a more targeted approach. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently scrub the stain with a brush, and then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Repeat if necessary.
How do I clean dirt and mud from my shoes?
For dirt and mud, start by letting the mud dry completely. Once dry, use a brush to remove as much dirt as possible. Then, apply a cleaning solution with a damp cloth or brush, scrub gently, and wipe away the residue with a clean microfiber cloth.
What is the first step in removing stains?
The first step is to identify the type of stain you're dealing with. This could be anything from dirt and mud to more stubborn stains like ink or oil. Understanding the stain type helps in choosing the right cleaning method. Learn more on how to clean different types of stain here.
Do you provide instructions for all your products?
We sure do. You can watch step-by-step tutorial videos for all of our cleaning products on their respective product page – or check out our YouTube channel here for all of our product how–tos!
If you have any other questions, send us an email or slide into our DMs on Instagram or Facebook.
How do I clean my laces?
Follow these simple steps for shiny laces:
- Remove laces, put them into a bowl with some sneaker cleaner and warm water.
- Soak for a few minutes.
- Remove, rub between your hands, and squeeze dry by stringing it through a towel.
- Repeat for better results.
- For even better results, treat laces with Stain Remover.
Can I use the stain remover for any material?
Yes you can! Our Stain Remover is safe on all materials. However, due to the nature of suede and nubuck, we would recommend using other techniques before resulting in using any liquids. Here’s how.
How should I apply cleaning solution to leather?
Dip the brush into the solution and scrub the leather in a back-and-forth circular motion.
What is the first step in cleaning leather shoes?
The first step is to start with a dry brush to remove as much dirt as possible from the leather surface before applying any cleaning solution.
Is there a waiting period after applying the solution?
Yes, you should allow the solution to sit on the leather for 2-3 minutes to let the suds work into the material and loosen the dirt.
Does the cleaning solution have any additional benefits?
Yes, the solution not only cleans but also conditions the leather once it dries.
What is the first step in cleaning suede shoes?
The first step is to start with a dry brush to remove as much dirt as possible and to reset the nap of the suede.
What is the recommended technique for cleaning the suede?
Begin cleaning from the midsole to remove excess water from the brush, then move to the upper part of the shoe using a circular back-and-forth motion to ensure a uniform clean.
Sustainability
Are your products plant based?
Over the years, we’ve been developing the formula in our cleaning solutions to be more eco-friendly. They sure are!
Do your products contain Palm Oil?
No sir!
Is it safe to use in the sink?
Absoutely, our formulas are biodegradable, so is safe to use around the house and in the sink.
Is it safe on skin?
Sure is.
Shipping & Orders
How long does shipping take?
Bear in mind that shipping times are just an estimation and can vary depending on shipping volumes and time of the year.
Delivery to:
- Victoria - 2-3 business days
- Rest of Australia (NSW, TAS, QLD, NT, SA, WA) - 4-5 business days
- International - 15+ business days
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship all our products internationally – except for sneaker storage and aerosols. If international orders include either sneaker storage or aerosols, we will refund you accordingly.
What is your refund policy?
Check out our refund policy in full here.
Received faulty items upon delivery?
Please provide us with the necessary details and any supporting documentation or images. You can email us at info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au. We will review your request and respond accordingly.
How do I check the status of my order?
Please reach out to the support team at info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au directly and provide your order number and tracking number.
How do I apply discount codes?
You can apply it to the checkout page before you complete the order process.
If you have a discount code that’s not working please contact support info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au and provide the discount code that you’re trying to use.
In Store Cleaning
Where are your stores based?
We have stores across Melbourne and Sydney in Australia.
Check out our store locations and opening hours here.
If you are not close to our locations, you can mail your shoes in to us. Just reach out to our team at info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au and we can organise the delivery.
How much does in store cleaning cost?
We provide three types of sneaker cleaning:
Basic Clean
This is a simple and straightforward cleaning option for shoes that do not require extensive cleaning. Service is priced at $40.
Full Exterior
It involves a thorough cleaning of the outer surface of your shoes, removing dirt and stains effectively. This service costs $50.
Deluxe Clean
This is a totally comprehensive cleaning of both the interior and exterior of your shoes, completely revitalising your kicks. Service is priced at $60.
For more details, check out our store pages here:
How long does it take to clean my sneakers?
All our cleans have a 3-4 days turnaround. We also offer an express 24-hour turnaround option for $20 extra per pair, and 48-hour turnaround for $10/pair.
Do I need to book an appointment?
No appointment necessary! Just drop by the store anytime within our opening hours.
Can any type of stain be remove?
Most stains can be removed - or at least significantly reduced - but we don’t know until we try! Ask us in-store about our satisfaction guarantee. Tell you what though – we’re damn good at cleaning sneakers.
What if I'm not satisfied with the clean?
Please contact our support at info@thesneakelaundry.com.au and provide your order number and photos of your shoes.
How do you charge for your mail services?
That depends on the level of service you want! Reach out to our customer service team at info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au and we can help craft a tailored package for you.
How do I send in a mail cleaning order?
Simply reach out to our team at info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au and we'll help you organise a delivery.
Restorations
What restoration services do you offer?
We offer 3 different restoration services: Repainting, Re-Gluing and Deoxidation.
Repainting
$110 for Midsoles and $110 for Uppers (Turnaround time of 14 days)
Re-gluing
$20 per spot of glue (Maximum of $120)
Deoxidation
$60 (7 days)
Do you offer repaints?
Yes, we do, please send the photos of your shoes to info@thesneakerlaundry.com.au for further assessment or you can drop off your shoes at the shop.
We cannot begin any repaint work until your sneakers are clean, so please select a cleaning package in your order as well.
Sole swap or sole replacement?
Unfortunately, we don't do resoles or sole swaps. But we know a great bloke who does – check out Ryan Nalupta in Melbourne (here’s his Instagram).
Do you do stitching or resewing?
No, we do not offer stitching and resewing services.