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How To Clean New Balance 550?

by Fajar Sugiarto March 02, 2023 11 min read

How To Clean New Balance 550?

Are you the proud owner of a pair of New Balance 550 shoes? You know that if you want to keep your shoes looking new, regular cleaning and maintenance is key. But it can be tricky trying to figure out how to properly clean your sneakers and not ruining them. In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to clean your New Balance 550 shoes so that they stay in top-notch condition.

First off, let’s talk about the materials used to make these shoes. The upper part of the shoe is made from a combination of synthetic leather and mesh fabric. The sole is made from rubber and EVA foam. Knowing what materials are used in the construction of these shoes will help us determine which cleaning products are safe for them.

We'll also cover some tips and tricks on how to prevent dirt from accumulating on your shoes in the first place. With our detailed guide, you'll be able to keep your New Balance 550s looking like new for as long as possible! So, let's get started!

Overview Of The New Balance 550

The New Balance 550 is a popular sneaker for both casual and active lifestyles. It has a stylish look and comfortable fit that make it perfect for everyday wear.

Collaborations with Aimé Leon Dore This shoe features an EVA foam midsole, which provides cushioning to the foot, as well as a rubber outsole for traction. The upper is made of leather and synthetic materials, giving the shoe a classic look.

Cleaning this type of shoe can be tricky, but with the right supplies and techniques, you can get your shoes looking brand new again.

Supplies Needed

Aether Care Gold Sneaker Cleaning Kit

To properly clean your New Balance 550s, you'll need the Aether Care gold sneaker cleaning kit to get the job done. The items in the kit include a soft-bristled brush, a microfibre cloth, and our premium sneaker cleaning solution.

You will also need 2 bowls, 1 for mixing the cleaning solution. The second bowl to soak the shoelaces in with cleaning solution and our Impervious spray that helps repel moisture and dirt.

Cleaning The New Balance 550 Shoes

Once you have gathered all the necessary supplies, you are ready to begin cleaning your shoes.

Step 1

Begin by brushing off any dirt or debris that may have collected on the surface of the shoe. This will help remove any loose particles that could scratch or damage the material of your shoes when being cleaned.

Step 1 - How To Clean New Balance 550

Step 2

Afterwards, wipe down the entire surface using the microfibre cloth to remove any remaining dirt particles. Be sure not to saturate the leather or synthetic material too much as this could damage them.

Step 2 - Cleaning The New Balance 550

Step 3

Mix warm water with the cleaning solution in the bowl of water to create a cleaning solution and submerge the brush into it. Shake off any excess water and gently scrub the shoes until all stains and spots on the surface are removed.

Step 3 - Cleaning The New Balance 550

Step 4

Wipe off with a clean, wet microfibre cloth once finished and dry thoroughly.

Step 4 - Cleaning The New Balance 550

Step 5

Once the shoes are thoroughly cleansed, apply a few liberal coatings of the Impervious spray to the entire external part of each shoe and let them dry naturally in sunlight. This will help seal out water and keep them looking fresh.

Step 5 - Cleaning The New Balance 550

It's important to remember that proper care and maintenance of your shoes are key in keeping them looking like new for longer periods of time.

Deodorizing The Shoes

Now that the dirt and grime have been removed, it's time to deodorize your New Balance 550s. You can use an odour-eliminating spray specifically designed for shoes to help remove any lingering smells from your 550s. Spray it directly onto the shoes and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping off any excess moisture with a cloth or paper towel.

Finally, to help keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean between wears, you can stuff them with newspaper or shoe trees when not in use. This will help absorb any extra moisture, which can lead to unwanted odours in your footwear.

It's also important to remember to alternate between two pairs of shoes so that they don't wear down too quickly and keep them stored away in a cool, dry place when not being worn. 

Cleaning The Laces

To finish up the cleaning process, it's important to take care of the laces on your New Balance 550s. Laces can often become dirty and stained, so it's important to clean them properly. Start by removing the laces from the shoes and soaking them in a mixture of warm water and sneaker cleaning solution for 10-15 minutes. After they've soaked, remove them from the water and gently scrub away any dirt or grime with a soft bristled brush.

Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse off the laces with cold water until all of the soap is removed. Allow them to air dry before placing them back in the shoes. If you're looking for an extra deep clean, you can also machine wash the laces in a pillowcase on a delicate cycle and then air dry afterwards. Be sure not to put your 550s in the washing machine as this can damage them!

It's important to note that after cleaning your New Balance 550s, it's best not to wear them for long periods of time or get them too wet as this could lead to more dirt and grime build-up over time. 

Adding Water-repellent Protection

In addition to cleaning your New Balance 550, it's important to add a layer of protection against water damage. This can help keep your shoes looking good for longer by helping them repel water and dirt.

To do this, use our Impervious spray specifically designed for suede or leather materials. Spray the shoes lightly, making sure to cover all areas including the inside of the shoe.

Let them dry for about 10 minutes before spraying them again. For best results, apply two to three coats of the water-repellent spray and let them dry thoroughly in between each application.

Once you've applied the Impervious spray, it's important to use shoe protectors whenever you wear your New Balance 550s outside. Shoe protectors are special covers that provide an extra layer of protection against rain and snow while also keeping dirt off your shoes.

Make sure to look for ones that are made from breathable materials, so they don't trap moisture inside the shoe and cause bacteria or mould to grow.

Storing The Shoes Properly

Once your New Balance 550s are clean and protected, it's time to think about how you will store them. Storing the shoes properly can help ensure that their quality remains intact and that they don't suffer any damage.

Here are some tips for properly storing your New Balance 550s:

First and foremost, avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in humid environments. This can cause the material of the shoe to fade or become brittle over time. Instead, find a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and moisture. A closet or drawer works well for this purpose.

Another important tip is to stuff your shoes with newspaper before placing them into storage. This helps keep the shape of the shoe while also absorbing excess moisture that may be trapped inside.

Additionally, if possible, try to store each pair of shoes in its own individual box or storage container to prevent them from rubbing against each other and becoming scuffed up.

Professional Cleaning Options

Overall, cleaning them yourself is a great way to keep your New Balance 550s looking their best. However, if the dirt and stains don't come off easily with basic methods, you may want to consider taking them to a professional cleaner. Our professional cleaners can help tackle even the toughest stains and marks that regular spot cleaning won't be able to remove.

When it comes to choosing a professional cleaner for your shoes, make sure you take the time to find one that specializes in shoe cleaning. You'll also want to ask what type of materials they use and whether they have experience working with New Balance 550s specifically. This will ensure that your shoes are being handled properly and that any potential damage will be minimized.

If you're looking for a guide on how to clean white sneakers specifically the white New Balance 550, check our guide here.

In addition, make sure that you follow any instructions provided by our professional cleaners carefully. This includes allowing enough drying time before wearing them again or storing them away, as well as avoiding any activities that could damage the material while they're wet or damp. Taking these precautions will help ensure your shoes maintain their quality after being professionally cleaned.

Our professional technicians are available on hand to help clean your most cherished shoes at our flagship Aether Care store at 4/150 Oxford Street, Leederville. You can also book your appointment online on our Aether Care sneaker cleaning service page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my New Balance 550 shoes?

Maintaining the cleanliness of your New Balance 550 shoes is an important part of making sure they last for a long time. Knowing how often to clean them can be tricky, as it depends on how often you wear them and in what conditions.

When it comes to keeping your shoes clean, the most important thing is to give them a good wiping down after each use. This should help remove dirt, mud and other materials that can damage the material of your shoes if left on there too long.

You should also aim to brush off any caked-on dirt or mud using a soft-bristled brush. For more stubborn stains, you may need to use a specialized cleaner or spot remover.

To keep your shoes looking their best, it's recommended that you give them a thorough cleaning at least once every two weeks depending on how often you wear them. Cleaning your shoes more frequently than this won't hurt but if you don't wear them very often then it's probably not necessary. 

No matter how often you wear them, properly taking care of your New Balance 550 shoes will help make sure that they stay in great condition for years to come! Make sure to follow all manufacturer instructions when cleaning or treating your shoes and always wipe down after each use for optimal performance and longevity.

Is it safe to use bleach to clean New Balance 550 shoes?

When it comes to cleaning your New Balance 550 shoes, it can be difficult to determine the best course of action. One question many people have is whether or not bleach is a safe option for cleaning these shoes.

Before attempting to use bleach on your New Balance 550 shoes, it's important to understand that bleach may not be the safest option for this type of shoe material. Bleach is incredibly harsh and can cause discolouration or damage to certain types of materials if used incorrectly. Additionally, using too much bleach can lead to an unpleasant odour in the shoes that could take a long time to remove.

If you choose not to use bleach on your New Balance 550 shoes, there are several other cleaning solutions available that are much gentler on the material. Many people find success by simply wiping down their shoes with a damp cloth and our sneaker cleaning solution. 

No matter which method you choose, make sure you check the care instructions listed on your New Balance 550 shoes before beginning any cleaning process. Doing so will help ensure that you don't cause any damage or discolouration while attempting to clean them properly. 

Can I machine wash my New Balance 550 shoes?

When you're washing any type of shoe, it's crucial to check the manufacturer's instructions first. If they don't recommend machine washing, then that means it probably isn't safe to do so. In the case of New Balance 550 shoes, the official advice is not to machine wash them.

Instead, if your New Balance shoes are looking a bit grubby, you should spot-clean them with a damp cloth and some cleaning solution mix. You could also opt for a more thorough clean by removing the laces and using a soft brush and warm water to scrub away dirt from every part of the shoe. Once you're done scrubbing, leave your shoes in a cool place until they're dry – never put wet shoes near heat sources such as radiators or hairdryers!

So, when it comes to cleaning your New Balance 550s, it's best not to attempt machine washing them – instead use warm water and mild soap on any visible stains or marks. 

Is it safe to use a hairdryer to dry my shoes?

Using a hairdryer to dry your New Balance 550 shoes is an option, but it is not the best choice for preserving the integrity of the shoe. Hairdryers can be too hot and cause damage to the material on the shoe, as well as to its shape. Also, if you're not careful when using a hairdryer, you could risk putting yourself in danger with electrical shocks from the appliance.

A better way to dry your shoes would be to allow them to air dry naturally in a cool, dark place. This will ensure that your shoes are dried adequately without causing any long-term damage or risking any safety issues. It's also important to make sure that your shoes are fully clean before air drying them so that any dirt or debris doesn't become stuck in the material and create permanent stains or discolouration.

Another great way to ensure that your New Balance 550 shoes are properly taken care of is by cleaning them with a mild detergent and a soft cloth or brush. This method will help remove dirt and grime while also keeping your shoes looking their best for years to come. Be sure to follow all instructions provided on the label of detergent carefully, as some products may require special attention when being used on certain materials. 

What type of water-repellent protection should I use for my New Balance 550 shoes?

When it comes to protecting your shoes from water damage, it's important to make sure that you're using the right type of water-repellent protection for your New Balance 550 shoes. Waterproofing sprays, waxes, and sealants are all available on the market, but which one is best for your shoes?

Our Impervious spray water and stain repellent is peerless in protecting your sneakers and it comes in 2 different varieties:

  • Santalum - the Australian Sandalwood, also known as Waang (Noogar) and Dutjahn (Martu), is a tree native to semi-arid areas at the edge of Southwest Australia, in the state of Western Australia.
  • The other variety is in the original scent, both with nanospray technology containing molecules 1,000 times smaller than a human hair, each molecule superhydrophobic - making anything it's sprayed onto water & stain-resistant.

Due to the 550 New Balance being made of leather and suede, then a waterproofing spray may be the most suitable option. The spray will help protect your shoes against water damage and keep them looking good for longer. It's also easy to apply and can be done in no time at all. 

It's also important to remember that different materials require different cleaning and maintenance techniques. For example, if you're using a waterproofing spray on leather or suede material, then you should always apply it evenly over the whole shoe and allow it to dry naturally before wearing them again. Waxes and sealants should also be applied in thin layers with a cloth or sponge and left to dry completely before being worn again.

Whichever product you decide to use for your New Balance 550 shoes, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully so that you get the best results possible. With regular care and maintenance, you can ensure that your shoes remain protected from water damage while still looking their best.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it's important to take proper care of your New Balance 550 shoes in order to keep them looking new and in top condition. Cleaning your shoes regularly is the best way to keep them looking their best.

For general cleaning, you can use a damp cloth or brush and some Aether Care sneaker cleaning solution. Avoid using bleach unless absolutely necessary, as it can damage the materials. If you need a more thorough cleaning, you can bring them into our flagship store in Leederville WA. Our technicians are sure to give your New Balance 550 shoes a pamper session and keep them in top-notch condition.

Click here to be directed to our online store or visit our sneaker cleaning service to book a cleaning at our flagship store.

Fajar Sugiarto


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