Merrell shoes are popular among hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to their comfortable fit and durable construction. But when it comes to keeping them clean, many people are unsure of the best way to go about it. Fear not, as we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about washing Merrell shoes. So, grab your shoes and let’s get started!
Supplies Needed
You’ll require some special items to get started on giving your shoes a deep clean. Firstly, you must have a good brush to scrub dirt and mud from the uppers. A soft-bristled brush is ideal for this job, as it won’t damage the material or leave any scratches behind. You can also use an old toothbrush if you don’t have one handy!
Next up is soap – not just any kind will do! The best type to use when washing Merrell shoes is oil-based soaps that contain lanolin. This helps soften and make the leather supple again after being exposed to water and dirt over time.
If possible, avoid using chemical detergents as they could potentially cause harm to the shoe’s material. Finally, grab a damp cloth, too – it will be useful in wiping down surfaces once cleaned with soap and water.
That’s all there is to it! Now you’re equipped with everything necessary to tackle those dirty Merrells head-on and bring them back to life in no time!
Preparing Your Merrells For Washing
First and foremost, it’s essential that you remove all dirt and debris from the surface of your Merrell shoes. To do this, use a soft brush or damp cloth to gently scrub away any grime or mud stuck in the crevices. Be sure not to scrub too hard as it may damage the fabric.
Next, inspect the soles of your shoes for any peeling rubber or exposed stitching. If there is any visible damage, address these issues before proceeding with further cleaning steps.
Related: Are Merrell shoes good for hiking?
Once the shoe has been inspected, use a small amount of warm soapy water on an old toothbrush (or similar) to clean around seams and other areas where dirt accumulates. Don’t forget to rinse off soap residue afterward!
Finally, if needed, apply a waterproofing spray onto the leather/fabric upper part of your Merrells before drying them using towels. This will help protect against future wear and tear while keeping your feet dry during wet weather conditions. Now that you’ve prepped your footwear for washing – you’re one step closer to having sparkling-clean shoes!
Removing Excess Dirt And Debris
First, you’ll want to give your shoes a good brush down with an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush. This will help loosen any stubborn bits of mud and grime that may have built up on your shoes. Ensure you brush off both sides of the shoe so nothing gets missed!
Next, use some warm water in a bowl or sink and mix in a small amount of mild detergent. Dip the toothbrush into this solution and gently scrub away any remaining dirt spots on your shoes. Be careful not to over-scrub, as this could damage the delicate material. Once finished, rinse the excess suds with clean water and let them dry out naturally before continuing the cleaning process.
If there are still areas that need extra attention, try using a damp cloth dipped in baking soda paste for tougher stains – it should do the trick!
Remember to always test this method on a hidden area first to ensure it won’t cause any damage. With these simple steps, you’re almost done prepping your Merrells for their proper cleaning session!
Washing The Shoes
The first step is to use mild soap and warm water to clean the outside of the shoe. Then take an old toothbrush or a small brush and gently scrub away any dirt from the surface. Once you’ve done this, rinse all the soap with cold water so no residue is left on your shoes.
Drying the shoes
Next, let your Merrells air dry for about 24 hours in a well-ventilated area. This helps keep their shape intact as they dry out completely without shrinking or warping due to heat. Try not to place them near direct sunlight or beside any sort of heater – these can cause damage over time!
After thoroughly drying them out, you can apply some leather cream if necessary. Apply this evenly using a soft cloth. Ensure you buff it into the material with another piece of cloth afterward so it looks nice and shiny again – just like new!
Re-Waterproofing The Shoes
Now that your Merrell shoes are dry, it’s time to give them a bit of TLC and get them waterproof again! There are several ways to do this – the simplest is to buy an aerosol spray specially designed for the purpose.
It’ll be easy to find in any outdoor or sports store – just make sure you check the label before buying so you know exactly what kind of material it’s suitable for.
The next step is to prepare the surface of your shoes by wiping off any dirt, mud or salt deposits with a soft cloth. Then, following the instructions on the bottle carefully, spritz or brush on a light coating of waterproofing solution.
This will help protect against water damage and keep stains at bay. Ensure you cover all areas, including seams, eyelets and sole edges as these can often be overlooked but still suffer from dampness if not treated properly.
Once your Merrells have been treated with waterproof protection, they should look good for longer and last many more adventures! So there we have it – taking care of your Merrells has never been easier!
Treatments For Stains Or Discoloration
We all know how tough it can be to keep our shoes looking as good as new. But, with a few simple steps, we can ensure our Merrells remain clean and fresh! First, you must identify the source of the stain or discoloration.
If your shoe has been in contact with something like mud or oil, then this could be causing the problem. Once you’ve identified the source of the issue, there are several treatments you can use to treat stains or discolorations on your Merrells.
For smaller areas of staining or discoloration, using an old toothbrush and some gentle soap should help remove any dirt that may have built up over time. For larger areas, try mixing together baking soda and water until it forms a paste-like consistency.
Apply this paste directly onto the affected area and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before brushing it off with an old toothbrush. This will help loosen stubborn dirt particles and remove grime from your Merrells.
If none of these solutions work for you, consider investing in a specialized cleaner specifically designed for cleaning leather footwear such as Merrells. These cleaners often contain ingredients that can easily break down oils and dirt without damaging your shoe’s material.
Related: Can You Hike In Doc Martens?
Keeping Your Shoes Smelling Fresh
Keeping footwear from getting smelly can be tricky, but you’ll succeed with the right methods and materials! First, remove the removable insoles after every use and let them air dry thoroughly. This will help prevent bacteria buildup, the main cause of shoe odors.
A great way to absorb excess moisture is by sprinkling baking soda inside each shoe before storing them. Baking soda has natural deodorizing properties and also helps wick away sweat and other dampness.
You can also opt for odor-eliminating sprays specifically designed for shoes if you require extra protection against unwanted scents. Don’t forget to spray inside the shoes as well as outside; this will give an added layer of protection against bacteria growth and lingering smells.
Professional Cleaning Services
If you have some particularly tricky dirt or mud on your Merrell shoes that won’t come off, then it’s time to consider getting professional help. There are many shoe-washing companies out there that offer a great service for those of us with muddy shoes!
These professionals will first use their specialized products and tools to remove the most stubborn stains from your shoes. They’ll use an array of brushes, sponges and sprays to eliminate all the grime and dirt – leaving them looking as good as new. Then they’ll treat them with water-based protection so that any future dirt can be easily removed with just a quick wipe down.
Professional cleaners also provide a top-quality polishing service that gives your Merrells a sparkly finish, making them look brighter.
And if there are any scuffs or scratches on the toes or heels of your shoes, they’ll make sure they’re buffed away too! So don’t worry; you can always rely on the experts to bring back the glory days of your favorite footwear.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
How do I wash my Merrell shoes?
All you need is a soft cloth and some mild soap or detergent. Just dampen the cloth and gently scrub away any dirt and debris from the surface of your Merrell shoes. Then rinse off any soap residue with clean water and let them air dry completely before wearing again.
Can you wash Merrell shoes in a washing machine?
While some Merrell shoes may be machine washable, it is not recommended as it can damage the shoes or affect their performance. Instead, it is recommended to hand wash them using mild soap and water and let them air dry. Always check the care instructions on the shoe’s tag before washing.
Why do Merrell shoes stink?
Merrell shoes can stink due to the bacteria and sweat buildup inside the shoe. This is often caused by wearing the shoes for extended periods, not allowing them to fully dry, or not properly cleaning them. To prevent odor, air out the Merrells between uses, use foot powder and clean them regularly.
How do I wash Merrell suede shoes?
Washing Merrell suede shoes requires a gentle touch. Start by using a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or stains. For tougher stains, use a suede cleaner specifically designed for suede shoes. After long periods of use, clean with mild soap and water.
Can I machine wash Merrell hiking shoes?
It is generally not recommended to machine wash Merrell hiking shoes, as it can damage the shoes and affect their performance. Instead, clean them by hand using mild soap and water, and let them air dry. Always check the care instructions on the shoe’s tag before cleaning.
Well, that’s it for our guide on how to wash Merrell shoes. It can be challenging at first, but with the right supplies and knowledge, you can keep your footwear looking as good as new! Just remember not to rush through the process – take your time and do things properly.
