How to Clean Ultra Boost Shoes?
Keeping your Ultra Boost sneakers fresh and clean can be a hassle – the knit upper shows stains easily, while the Boost midsole traps dirt deep in its foam pellets.
Don’t worry! With the proper cleaning approach, you can keep your beloved shoes looking brand new.
In this blog post, I’ll share my proven method for effectively cleaning Ultra Boosts.
I’ve refined a simple 10-step process using optimal water temperature, specialized detergents, brushes, inserts, exact air-drying directions, spot-cleaning techniques, and protective sprays.
Let’s get into how to properly care for these shoes.
How to Clean Ultra Boost Shoes? Step By Step Guide
Step 1: Spot Treat Stains on Knit Upper
Spot-treat any visible stains on the Ultraboost’s stretchy Primeknit upper before washing using a solution of 1 part clear dish soap and 3 parts cold water.
Gently dab stained areas with a corner of microfiber cloth soaked in the solution.
This specialized ratio cleans marks from the engineered Primeknit fibers better than laundry detergent alone without the risk of residue.
Step 2: Gently Loosen the Dirt with a Microfiber Brush
Use a soft microfiber brush to gently loosen trapped dirt particles within the 3D molded cage and heel lining.
Avoid using stiff-bristle brushes, which can snag and pull the lightweight knitted material. Rotate the brush across ridges and texture in short motions, and lift dust buildup.
Step 3: Hand Wash Shoes with Woolite Dark
To hand-wash, dilute a 2% concentration of Woolite Dark to clean Ultraboosts in cold water.
Exceeding 5% soap concentration risks compromising the advanced nano-coating for water resistance and moisture-wicking finish.
Measure out 1 teaspoon into 16 oz cold water to achieve the recommended ratio for cleaning technical fabrics.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly Under Tap
Rinse under a cold tap between 40-55 PSI setting for 3 full minutes.
The high-pressure stream flushes soap residue from the inner depths of the full-length Boost midsole as well as woven upper fabrics.
Adjust the sink sprayer accordingly, then rinse the entire shoe all around repeatedly.
Step 5: Stuff With Drying Paper
Insert 3-4 sheets of acid-free tissue paper into each shoe while wet to fill out the ankle collar and tongue areas fully.
This helps the ultra-stretch Primeknit bounce back into form as its air dries by bracing the shape from the inside. Change tissue if it becomes overly saturated.
Step 6: Air Dry Completely Before Wearing
Allow Primeknit upper to air dry for at least 48 hours before wearing it again.
The extremely porous and breathable knit construction needs ample time to fully dry out from the inside to avoid moisture getting trapped within the technical yarns.
Place stuffed shoes in front of a fan to accelerate drying time.
Step 7: Spot Clean Rubber Outsole
Use a soft microfiber cloth to spot clean any cosmetic stains on the Continental rubber outsole after washing.
Harsher brush bristles can cause scuff marks on the grippy tread, which wears down durability over time. Gently wipe in the direction of the texture with minimal pressure.
Step 8: Replace EVA Stability Insert
Consider replacing the EVA stability torsion spring insert every 6-8 months, depending on usage.
This helps provide consistent midfoot integrity as Boost foam pellets compact over time with wear.
Remove the soaking wet insole before washing shoes to allow this hidden component to fully air dry as well.
Step 9: Use Clarifying Spray Monthly
Use a clarifying shoe spray designed for synthetic knits monthly to avoid oil and odor buildup within the shoes while wearing.
The antimicrobial shield hinders future staining by creating an invisible barrier against dirt and sweat accumulation on Ultraboost’s porous upper materials between washes.
Step 10: Store With Cedar Shoe Trees
Store Ultraboost shoes with cedar shoe trees inserted after wearing to quickly absorb interior moisture, maintaining shape and preventing bacterial growth odor that can linger within snug-fitting woven fabrics over time.
Make sure shoes are fully dry before inserting trees.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, by following the 10-step cleaning process outlined above, you can keep your Ultra Boost shoes looking fresh and clean.
The key steps include pre-treating stains, washing with Woolite Dark detergent, thoroughly rinsing, air drying completely, and using clarifying spray monthly.
Proper care will help maintain the knit upper, Boost midsole, rubber outsole, and inner shoe components. By following this, your Ultra Boosts will stay pristine and ready for wear.
For more easy tips on cleaning shoes, see my post on washing bowling shoes. And please ask in the comments if you have any other shoe-cleaning questions. I’m happy to help out!