How to Clean Golf Shoes

As a golf enthusiast, you know that your equipment plays a crucial role in your performance on the course. While clubs and balls often take center stage, your golf shoes are just as important. They provide the stability and traction you need for a powerful swing and comfortable walking between holes. That’s why keeping your golf shoes clean and well-maintained is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about How to Clean Golf Shoes, from quick touch-ups to thorough deep-cleaning techniques.

Quick Clean vs. Deep Clean

Depending on how dirty your shoes are and how much time you have, you might opt for a quick clean or a deep clean. Here’s a brief overview of each:

Quick Clean: Perfect for light dirt or when you’re short on time. This involves brushing off loose dirt and wiping down the shoes with a damp cloth.

Deep Clean: Ideal for heavily soiled shoes or as part of regular maintenance. This involves a more thorough cleaning of all parts of the shoe.

Let’s start with the quick clean method.

Quick Clean Method

What You’ll Need:

• Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
• Damp cloth
• Dry towel

Steps:

1. Remove loose dirt: Use the brush to gently remove any loose dirt, grass, or debris from the shoes. Pay special attention to the soles and between the cleats.
2. Wipe down: Use the damp cloth to wipe the entire shoe, including the upper, midsole, and outsole. This will remove any remaining surface dirt.
3. Dry: Use the dry towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps prevent water stains, especially on leather shoes.
4. Air dry: Leave the shoes in a well-ventilated area to dry completely before your next use.

This quick clean method is great for maintaining your shoes between rounds or when you don’t have time for a more thorough cleaning. Now, let’s move on to the deep clean method.

Deep Clean Method

Tools You’ll Need:

• Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
• Bucket or sink
• Mild soap or specialized golf shoe cleaner
• Warm water
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Dry towels
• Leather conditioner (for leather shoes)

Steps:

1. Prepare the shoes: Remove the laces and insoles (if removable). This allows you to clean all parts of the shoe thoroughly.
2. Dry brush: Use the soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt and debris from all parts of the shoe, including the upper, midsole, and outsole.
3. Prepare cleaning solution: Fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap or specialized golf shoe cleaner. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the shoes.
4. Clean the uppers:
   • For leather shoes: Dip the soft cloth in the cleaning solution, wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking, and gently wipe the leather. Avoid saturating the leather.
   • For synthetic or mesh shoes: You can be a bit more vigorous. Use the soft brush or cloth to scrub away dirt and stains.
5. Clean the soles: Use the brush to scrub the soles thoroughly, paying extra attention to the grooves and cleats where dirt can accumulate.
6. Rinse: Use clean water to rinse off any soap residue. Be careful not to soak leather shoes.
7. Clean laces and insoles: While the shoes are drying, wash the laces in the soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Clean the insoles with a damp cloth and mild soap.
8. Dry: Use a dry towel to remove excess water. Stuff the shoes with paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture and help maintain their shape.
9. Air dry: Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Direct heat can damage the shoes, especially leather ones.
10. Condition leather: Once leather shoes are completely dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
11. Reassemble: Once everything is dry, replace the insoles and re-lace the shoes.

Cleaning Different Materials

Different golf shoe materials require slightly different cleaning approaches. Here’s a breakdown:

Leather Golf Shoes

Leather is a popular material for golf shoes due to its durability and water-resistant properties. However, it requires special care:

• Use a leather-specific cleaner or mild soap.
• Avoid soaking the leather; use a damp cloth instead.
• Apply a leather conditioner after cleaning to prevent drying and cracking.
• Polish if desired for a glossy finish.

For more detailed information on caring for leather golf shoes, check out our guide on how to care for leather golf shoes.

Synthetic Golf Shoes

Synthetic materials like polyester or nylon are often more affordable and easier to clean:

• These can handle a bit more water and scrubbing than leather.
• Use a soft brush or cloth with mild soap and water.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.

Mesh Golf Shoes

Mesh provides excellent breathability but can be trickier to clean:

• Use a soft brush to remove dry dirt.
• Clean with mild soap and cool water.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
• Avoid using hot water, which can damage the mesh.

Cleaning Specific Parts of Golf Shoes

Soles and Cleats

The soles of your golf shoes are where most of the dirt accumulates:

1. Use a stiff brush to remove caked-on mud and grass.
2. For stubborn dirt, soak the soles in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing.
3. Pay special attention to the spaces between cleats.
4. For removable cleats, unscrew them and clean separately.
5. Check for worn or damaged cleats and replace as necessary.

For more information on maintaining your golf shoe spikes, read our guides on how to change spikes on golf shoes and how to remove golf shoe spikes.

Uppers

The upper part of the shoe requires gentler cleaning:

1. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove surface dirt.
2. Clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, using circular motions.
3. For tough stains, use a specialized cleaner appropriate for the shoe material.
4. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.

Insoles

Insoles can harbor odor-causing bacteria:

1. Remove insoles and clean separately.
2. Use a mixture of warm water and mild soap.
3. Scrub gently with a soft brush.
4. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely before replacing.

Maintaining Your Golf Shoes

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your golf shoes and reduce the need for deep cleaning:

• Clean after every use: At minimum, brush off dirt and wipe with a damp cloth after each round.
• Rotate your shoes: If you golf frequently, consider having two pairs to allow each pair to dry completely between uses.
• Use shoe trees: Cedar shoe trees absorb moisture and help maintain the shape of your shoes.
• Store properly: Keep your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.
• Waterproof regularly: For leather shoes, apply a waterproofing spray every few months to maintain water resistance.
• Replace cleats: Check your cleats regularly and replace them when they show signs of wear.

For more tips on preventing odors in your golf shoes, check out our article on how to keep slippers from smelling, which offers advice applicable to golf shoes as well.

Recommended Cleaning Products

While you can clean your golf shoes with household items, some specialized products can make the job easier and more effective:

• Golf shoe cleaner: Brands like FootJoy and ECCO offer cleaners specifically formulated for golf shoes.
• Leather cleaner and conditioner: For leather shoes, products like Leather Honey or Kiwi Leather Cleaner work well.
• Water and stain repellent spray: Scotchgard or similar products can help protect your shoes from stains and water damage.
• Soft-bristled brush: A brush designed for shoes will be gentle enough for cleaning without causing damage.
• Microfiber cloths: These are great for applying cleaner and wiping down shoes without leaving lint behind.

Remember to always check the manufacturer’s recommendations before using any cleaning product on your golf shoes.

FAQs About Cleaning Golf Shoes

For more information on cleaning other types of athletic shoes, you might find our guides on how to clean bowling shoes and how to clean Brooks running shoes helpful.

Conclusion

Keeping your golf shoes clean is an essential part of golf equipment maintenance. Regular cleaning not only keeps your shoes looking great but also extends their lifespan and maintains their performance on the course. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to keep your golf shoes in top condition, whether you’re dealing with a quick touch-up or a deep clean.

Remember these key points:

• Quick clean after every round
• Deep clean every 5-10 rounds
• Use appropriate cleaning methods for different materials
• Maintain your shoes regularly to prevent buildup of dirt and odors
• Store your shoes properly when not in use

With these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to step onto the course with confidence, knowing your golf shoes are clean, well-maintained, and ready to support your game. Happy golfing!

For more information on maintaining other types of footwear, check out our guides on how to clean white leather tennis shoes and how to wash cycling shoes.