This is how to clean standard leather sneakers.


The cleaning kit used is the No. 1 best-selling JASON MARKK Essential Kit. The 4 ounces (118 ml) of cleaner is enough to wash approximately 100 pairs of sneakers. The included cleaner brush uses stiff synthetic fiber bristles. This brush effectively removes stubborn dirt from leather, vinyl, nylon, rubber materials, and even the grooves of the soles.


① First, remove any dust from the surface of the sneakers with a brush. At this time, remove the shoelaces, soak them in cleaner, rub them, and wring them out.

Suede cleaning kit: 1,620 yen
Purchase here


② Fill a bowl of water with water and soak the brush in it to allow it to absorb the water. Apply an appropriate amount of cleaner (not enough to drip) to the brush, and then soak the cleaner-coated brush in water again.

Essential Kit: 2,160 yen

Purchase here
 

③ Carefully brush the dirty areas while creating a lather. The key is to let the fine foam absorb the dirt and lift it away with the foam. The brush is firm, so you can clean it effectively without applying much force.


④ Once the dirt has loosened, wipe away the foam thoroughly with a microfiber towel (sold separately) which has fine fibers and easily absorbs dirt and moisture. (A cloth or towel can also be used.)

Premium Microfiber Towel: ¥1,512
Purchase here

After following the steps above, it's a good idea to brush heavily soiled areas several times. However, yellowing is caused by the deterioration of the material itself, so the stains won't be completely removed. Once clean, let them air dry in the shade, and ideally, stuff them with shoe trees or newspaper.

The aforementioned microfiber towels offer approximately seven times the absorbency of a regular towel when compared to one of the same area. Their fine, hook-shaped fibers effectively trap dust and dirt, and they are also machine washable, making them highly recommended.


View JASON MARKK 's product list on the Isetan online store.

Next, for "suede and nubuck sneakers," change the brush and clean them.