As someone who frequently wears Hoka shoes. I understand the importance of keeping them in top condition. Not only do they play a crucial role in my daily activities But they also reflect my personal style. However, there are a few cons of Hoka shoes as well for example Hoka shoes can accumulate dirt and odor, which makes them challenging to clean.
But don’t worry. I have the solution! In this guide, I’ll share my tried-and-true methods for effectively cleaning Hoka shoes, including removing tough stains and reviving their fresh scent.
Let’s begin and bring back that sparkly new shoe shine.
Page Contents
1. Soak Your Hoka Shoes in a Tub

Soaking your Hoka shoes is an effective method to clean them.
To begin the process.
- Prepare a basin or sink by filling it with warm water and a mild detergent or dishwashing liquid.
- Soak your shoes in water for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. It allows the water and detergent to seep into the fabric and break down dirt, grime, or sweat that has built up over time.
- Once the soak is complete. Gently scrub the shoes with a soft brush or cloth to remove any remaining dirt and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow it to dry for several hours.
I opt to let my Hoka shoes air-dry under the sun after cleaning them. Not only does this remove any persistent odors, but it also eliminates bacteria and germs that may have accumulated during use.
Disclaimer!: It is crucial to remember that this soak method may not be suitable for shoes made of fragile or high-end materials. Before cleaning, you should review the manufacturer's care instructions to ensure the soaking method is appropriate.
This straightforward soaking can significantly improve the appearance and scent of your Hoka shoes.
2. Use a Shoe Cleaner

For severely soiled shoes, employing a shoe cleaner is the most effective method.
Collect all necessary materials Such as a brush with soft bristles, a moist cloth, and a cleaning product specifically formulated for Hoka shoes.
Start by brushing off any loose dirt or debris from the shoes’ surface. Gently clean the shoes using a cloth moistened with a small amount of cleaner, giving special attention to any stained areas.
I let the cleaner sit for a minute or two, and then use a damp cloth to wipe away any surplus.
Allow the shoes to air dry thoroughly before wearing them.
3. Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner

I desire my shoes to always have a polished appearance. and utilizing an ultrasonic cleaner has shown to be the most successful method in achieving this.
Pour warm water into the cleaner, and add a “minimal amount of detergent”. Then, delicately insert your Hoka shoes into the cleaner.
Make sure that they are completely submerged, or this method will not give the perfect shine. Activate the cleaner for 5-10 minutes. Let it get the job done.
The ultrasonic cleaner’s high-frequency sound waves reach every nook and cranny of the shoes, which perfectly eliminates the toughest dirt and stains. Upon finishing the cycle, I take out the shoes and rinse them once more with clean water.
Let them air dry completely.
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4. Use a Steam Cleaner

Cleaning shoes with a steam cleaner is gentle and protects delicate materials from harsh chemicals and rough scrubbing.
Fill the steam cleaner with water and allow it to heat. Once the steam cleaner is heated, position the nozzle near the surface of the shoes. Concentrate the nozzle on the dirtiest areas and let the steam clean the shoes’ surface.
Recommendation!: I advise being cautious when placing the steam cleaner nozzle too close to the fabric of the shoes, as it may cause burning of your shoe fabric.
The steam’s heat and pressure effectively remove dirt and stains from the shoes, which results in a refreshed appearance. It also provides a gentle and safe cleaning solution for even the most delicate materials. Also, you don’t have to worry about damaging your shoes through the use of harmful chemicals or abrasive scrubbing.

5. Hand Wash your Hoka Shoes

Washing my Hoka shoes by hand gives me full control over the cleaning process and is an affordable choice.
- Fill a basin with warm water and add a small amount of soap.
- Then, use a soft-bristled brush to clean the surface of the shoes by scrubbing them gently. Make sure to clean every corner and crevice of the shoes by scrubbing them thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush.
- After scrubbing, make sure to rinse the shoes completely with fresh water.
- Allow the shoes to dry completely in the air.
This is one of the fastest ways to clean your Hoka shoes for people who work daily like a nurse.
6. Use Goo Gone

Goo Gone is an effective solution for removing stubborn substances such as sticky residue, gum, tar, and more from various surfaces.
It is crucial to test Goo Gone on a small, hidden part of the shoes before using it to prevent any potential damage.
Shake the can of Goo Gone and apply a small amount to the stained area. Let the Goo Gone sit for a minute or two to give it time to penetrate the stubborn substance. Next, gently wipe the area with a clean cloth to remove the residue.
I repeat the cleaning process as necessary until the shoes are thoroughly cleaned.
It is important to note that Goo Gone should only be used on surfaces capable of tolerating solvents. Thus, its use is not recommended for materials such as suede or leather.
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7. Use WD-40

WD-40 is particularly effective for cleaning white shoes as this versatile spray is effective in removing persistent dirt and grime from multiple surfaces.
Begin by thoroughly shaking the can and keeping it at a distance of approximately six inches from the soiled area of your shoes. Afterward, spray some WD-40 onto the stained area and let it soak in for approximately a minute.
Eliminate the dirt by scrubbing with a clean cloth or brush until it’s no longer present. Repeat the process as often as needed until the shoes are spotless.
Clean the shoes with a dry cloth to eliminate any remaining traces of WD-40.
8. Use a Cleaning Solution

Identifying the material of the shoes is crucial as it determines the appropriate cleaning solution to use.
The cleaning solution made of water and soap is versatile and you can apply it to many different shoe materials, such as leather, canvas, and synthetic materials. For tougher stains, add vinegar and baking soda to the water and soap solution to enhance its cleaning ability.
Gently scrub the stained or dirty areas of the shoes with a soft cloth or brush once you’ve applied the cleaning solution. Rinse the shoes with clean water.
Let the shoes dry completely in the open air.
9. Use a Steam Iron

- Set the steam iron to the highest steam setting and fill it with water. Put a clean, moist cloth over the soiled or stained area of the shoes.
- Hold the iron about an inch away from the cloth and activate the steam button to emit a powerful stream of steam onto the cloth. This will aid in loosening and dissolving the dirt and stains.
- After a brief steaming period, use a clean cloth to delicately rub and scrub the soiled area, being cautious not to harm the shoes.
- Allow the shoes to air dry thoroughly before you put them back on.
10. Use Shaving Cream

Cleaning Hoka shoes with shaving cream is a simple method that I have personally experienced.
Start with choosing a shaving cream that is non-gel and does not contain moisturizing ingredients. Next, spread a substantial amount of shaving cream on the sections of the shoes that are stained or dirty.
I ensure that the cream is distributed evenly, completely covering the affected area with a substantial coating. Next, allow the shaving cream to penetrate the dirt and stains by letting it sit on the affected areas for approximately 15 minutes.
During this 15-minute period, the shaving cream will work to remove dirt, grime, and stains by dissolving them during the waiting period.
Then, using a soft cloth or brush, I carefully scrub the area that was treated, being cautious not to cause any damage to the shoes. Thoroughly rinse the shoes with clean water and allow them to air dry until they are completely dry.
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Can you Machine Wash Your Hoka Shoes?

It is not recomended to Wash your Hoka shoes in a washing machine because it can cause harm to the shoes, such as deformities, and discoloration, or It can weaken the materials of the shoes.
However, you can wash your Hoka shoe laces in the washing machine by taking them out of the shoes first. Place them in the washing machine, add detergent, run the machine for 3 to 4 minutes, and then let the laces air dry.
How to Help Your Hoka Shoes Last Longer
To ensure your Hoka shoes last longer, there are a number of methods you can try.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance of your Hoka shoes are crucial in ensuring their longevity. You can do this by removing any dirt or debris from the soles after use, wiping the shoes down, and eliminating any excessive moisture.
- Protect your shoes from harsh conditions such as extreme heat or cold, as this can cause harm to the materials used.
- When not in use, it is important to store your shoes in a cool and dry location and avoid putting too many shoes in your collection to prevent the loss of their shape.
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Conclusion
Taking proper care of your shoes is essential for preserving their longevity and appearance. By following the easy steps in this guide, you can ensure your Hoka shoes stay clean and fresh. Effortlessly tackle dirt, mud, or sweat by combining soap and water with a gentle scrubbing technique, promoting both the longevity and aesthetic of your Hoka shoes. Make sure to fully air out and dry your shoes before wearing them again and store them in a cool, dry location when not in use.