Mesh running shoes breathe well and trap dirt and odour just as easily. Here is how to care for mesh sneakers and when a professional machine clean helps.
Mesh uppers are designed to let your feet breathe, which means they are full of tiny gaps that trap fine dust, sweat and bacteria. That is why mesh running shoes can look clean but still smell, and why the odour comes back quickly after a surface wipe.
A light routine keeps mesh sneakers going between professional cleans:
Surface wiping does not reach the dirt and bacteria trapped deep in the mesh or the insole.
Fresh Kicks cleans suitable mesh sneakers and running shoes using a machine-cleaning process that flushes dirt from the mesh, the lining and the insole. Every pair then goes through a UV-assisted drying stage that targets the germs and bacteria that cause persistent odour.
We clean canvas, mesh, knit and rubber footwear. We do not clean suede, nubuck or delicate dress leather.
If you train regularly, FreshPass lets you set a monthly or fortnightly pickup so your running shoes never sit damp and dirty. No contracts, and you can pause anytime.
Drop running shoes at our shop at 118 Ormond Rd, Elwood (Monday to Friday, 2 to 5pm), or book pickup and delivery in eligible suburbs. No account is needed to book.
Yes. Mesh is one of the materials we clean well. Our machine-cleaning process flushes dirt from the mesh, lining and insole, then a UV-assisted drying stage targets bacteria.
We use a specialist shoe-cleaning process, not a home washing machine. We do not tumble dry, which is what usually damages running shoe cushioning.
Odour comes from bacteria trapped in the mesh and insole. Air drying between runs helps, and our UV-assisted finish targets the bacteria that cause the smell.
Drop off at our Elwood shop or book pickup and delivery in eligible suburbs. No account needed.