Golf shoes are more than just shoes – they’re key to your game.
Clean shoes look better and help with grip and comfort. Learning how to clean golf shoes properly will extend their life and keep them performing.
Whether mesh, leather or synthetic, you can clean your shoes without damaging them.
How to Wash Golf Shoes
1. Prep your shoes
Before you start cleaning, remove any dirt or mud. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the soles and the uppers.
This first step will prevent any excess dirt from getting into the fabric when you wash.
If your shoes have laces or removable insoles, take them out before you start cleaning.
2. Hand Wash vs Machine Wash
Hand washing is the safest method, especially for delicate materials like leather or mesh. But some golf shoes can be machine washed.
If you choose to machine wash, put the shoes in a mesh washing bag or pillowcase to prevent them from banging around and damaging the drum.
Set the washer to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water and add a small amount of gentle laundry detergent.
3. Washing Leather Golf Shoes
Leather shoes need special care. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to wipe them clean, targeting tough stains.
Don’t submerge leather shoes in water or put them in a washing machine.
After cleaning, wipe the shoes again with a soft, dry cloth. It’s good to apply a leather conditioner after cleaning to keep the leather conditioner.
4. Washing Mesh and Synthetic Golf Shoes
Mesh golf shoes are easier to clean and can handle a bit more water.
After removing the dirt with a soft brush, you can either hand wash with soapy water or machine wash. Make sure to put the shoes in a mesh bag and wash them on a gentle cycle with warm water.
Don’t use hot water, which can weaken the glue and seams.
5. Drying your Golf Shoes
Never use an external heat source like a dryer or radiator to dry your golf shoes. This can warp their shape. Air dry your shoes instead.
Stuff them with crumpled newspaper or use cedar shoe trees to help them keep their shape and absorb excess moisture.
If the inner soles are removable, take them out and air dry them separately.
6. Removing Tough Stains and Odors
For white shoes or tough stains, a magic eraser can work wonders on scuffs and dirt.
For smelly shoes, sprinkle some baking soda inside the shoes or place cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and odors.
You can also wash the insoles separately with mild soap and water to freshen them up.
7. Long Term Shoe Maintenance
Cleaning your golf shoes regularly can make them last longer and perform better.
After every round, take a few minutes to wipe off dirt and moisture. Cleaning your shoes makes them look better and helps preserve their shape and comfort.
Having two pairs of shoes can also help, alternating between them to reduce wear and tear.
Additional Tips to Keep Your Golf Shoes Clean
Use a Shoe Horn: This will help preserve the heel of your shoes when putting them on.
Carry a Dry Towel: After a wet round, wipe your shoes dry immediately with a dry towel.
Use Shoe Trees: Cedar shoe trees help keep your shoes in shape and absorb moisture after a wet round.
No Excessive Heat: Always air dry your golf shoes, heat can damage materials and affect the fit.
Store in a Cool Dry Place: Store your shoes in a well ventilated area to prevent mildew and odors.
Shoe Maintenance
Golf shoes can lose their shape if not taken care of. Stuff your shoes with crumpled newspaper after cleaning them to absorb moisture and keep their shape.
If you want to keep your shoes in top condition, cedar shoe trees are a worthwhile investment. They help shoes dry faster and smell fresher.
If your shoes feel loose or warped, it’s time for a new pair.
How often to wash golf shoes?
How often to wash golf shoes depends on how often you play and the weather.
If you play in wet conditions often, clean your shoes after every few rounds to prevent damage from moisture. If you play in dry conditions most of the time, a monthly clean or after every few rounds is enough.
Always check your shoes regularly for dirt, stains and odors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Golf Shoes
Many golfers over-clean their shoes, especially the leather ones.
Too much water exposure can ruin leather shoes over time. Stick to spot cleaning with a damp cloth and gentle touch.
Don’t machine wash unless the manufacturer says so. Harsh cycles can tear mesh and damage the structure of the shoes.
And don’t neglect the soles – clean the soles after every round to keep your grip optimal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I machine wash golf shoes?
Yes, you can machine wash some golf shoes but be careful.
Use a mesh bag or pillowcase to protect the shoes and wash on a gentle cycle with warm water. Don’t use hot water or harsh detergent.
Air dry after washing to prevent warping.
How to remove smelly golf shoes?
To remove smelly golf shoes, sprinkle baking soda inside to absorb odors or use cedar shoe trees, which can help with smell and moisture.
You can also wipe the insoles with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always air dry your shoes to prevent odor buildup.
Can I machine wash adidas golf shoes?
Yes, many Adidas golf shoes can be machine-washed.
Put them in a mesh washing bag and use a gentle or delicate cycle with warm water.
Use a small amount of laundry detergent and no heat during the drying process. Air dry your shoes and stuff them with newspaper to retain their shape.
How to clean TRUE golf shoes?
TRUE golf shoes can be cleaned by hand with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Use a soft brush to scrub the soles and uppers for tough dirt. Avoid machine washing if possible.
Air dry your TRUE shoes naturally and use cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and keep their shape.