Trainer Transformation: The Ultimate Guide to Refreshing Athletic Footwear

Keeping your trainers looking and smelling fresh isn’t just about appearances, it’s essential for foot health, comfort and even the lifespan of your favourite footwear. Whether you’re pounding pavements, navigating muddy paths, or hitting the gym, your trainers work hard and they deserve some TLC.

The challenge? How to clean trainers without compromising their shape, cushioning, or material. Many conventional cleaning agents are too harsh, potentially breaking down fabric fibres or irritating sensitive skin. That’s why Bio-D’s naturally derived, non-toxic alternatives are ideal for freshening up your footwear safely, both for you and the planet.

Why Trainers Need Special Attention

Trainers, by nature, are exposed to sweat, dirt, bacteria, and the occasional spill. Left uncleaned, they can:

• Harbour odours and mould
• Break down quicker
• Trigger skin irritation
• Stain or discolour permanently

Unlike other shoes, trainers are constructed with layered materials, mesh, canvas, foam, and rubber, each requiring specific care to preserve structure and comfort.

Step 1: Identify Your Trainer Materials

Before cleaning, check the material. Most trainer uppers fall into one of these categories:

Bio-D’s Laundry Liquid and Laundry and Stain Remover Bar are safe choices for most of these materials, free from synthetic dyes, phosphates, and allergens.

Step 2: Prepare for Cleaning

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bio-D Laundry Liquid (available in refill sizes for eco-friendly top-ups)
• A soft brush or old toothbrush
• A microfibre cloth
• A bowl of warm water
• Scented Bio-D Soap Bar (for odour prevention post-clean)
• An old pillowcase or mesh laundry bag (for machine washing)

Remove laces and insoles before starting, they need individual attention.

Step 3: Cleaning Different Trainer Types

Canvas and Fabric Trainers

1. Remove loose dirt with a dry brush or cloth.
2. Mix a solution of warm water and a small amount of Bio-D Laundry Liquid.
3. Hand wash using a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the upper and sole.
4. Rinse lightly with clean water and dab dry with a towel.
5. For deeper cleans, machine wash on a delicate cycle in a laundry bag using Bio-D Laundry Liquid. Air dry only, no tumble drying!

Mesh and Athletic Trainers

1. Spot clean with Bio-D Laundry and Stain Remover Bar
2. Avoid submerging in water to protect the shape and midsole bonding.
3. Use a damp cloth to wipe down and a soft brush for crevices.

Step 4: Laces and Insoles

• Laces: Soak in warm water with Bio-D Laundry Liquid for 30 minutes, then rinse and air dry.
• Insoles: Wipe down with Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser to neutralise bacteria and neutralise odours. Air dry completely before reinserting.

Step 5: Remove Odours Naturally

Fresh smelling trainers aren’t just nice, they’re important for hygiene. Try these odour fighting tricks:

• Place a Bio-D Scented Soap Bar (like Mandarin or Lime & Aloe Vera ) inside each shoe overnight.
• Let shoes air out in a well-ventilated area after wear.
• Sprinkle a little Laundry Bleach in shoes overnight and vacuum out the next day.

The soap bar trick not only absorbs moisture but leaves a light, fresh scent without synthetic fragrances.

Step 6: Drying Without Damage

Never tumble dry or place trainers on a radiator, as heat can warp their shape or melt adhesives.

• Stuff with newspaper or old t-shirts to help absorb moisture and retain shape.
• Dry in a shaded, airy spot away from direct sunlight.
• Allow at least 24–48 hours before re-wearing, depending on material.

Long Term Maintenance & Storage

• Clean trainers every 2–4 weeks based on use.
• Use reusable dust bags when storing.
• Apply water-repellent spray suitable for your trainer type for added protection.

Why Choose Bio-D for Footwear Care?

Bio-D’s cleaning solutions aren’t just tough on grime, they’re gentle on your gear, your skin, and the planet.

Trainer TLC the Eco-Friendly Way

Cleaning your trainers doesn’t have to involve chemical sprays or harsh bleach. With Bio-D’s Laundry Liquid, Laundry & Stain Remover Bar, and a touch of creative deodorising (hello, scented soap bar!), your shoes can stay fresh, clean, and damage free.

And by using Bio-D’s refillable and environmentally conscious products, you’re not only taking care of your footwear, you’re making a small but powerful contribution to a cleaner planet.Bottom of Form