If you’re a climbing enthusiast, then you know how essential it is to have a good pair of climbing shoes. Climbing shoes are designed to provide grip and support, making it easier to climb and ensuring that you don’t slip. However, after multiple uses, your climbing shoes will get dirty, sweaty and smelly.
That’s why it’s important to learn how to clean climbing shoes properly. One easy and affordable way to clean your climbing shoes is by using baking soda. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll show you how to clean your climbing shoes using baking soda.
Why is it important to clean your climbing shoes?
Before we delve into how to clean your climbing shoes with baking soda, it’s important to understand why cleaning your climbing shoes is crucial. Climbing shoes are designed to provide grip and support, making it easier to climb and ensuring that you don’t slip.
However, after multiple uses, your climbing shoes will get dirty, sweaty and smelly. Dirt and sweat can accumulate on the shoes, causing them to lose their grip and deteriorate faster. Furthermore, the buildup of bacteria and sweat can cause your shoes to smell bad, which can be unpleasant for you and those around you.
Regular cleaning of your climbing shoes not only extends their lifespan but also ensures that they perform optimally during climbs.
Gather your materials
Before you begin cleaning your climbing shoes, you will need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A bowl of warm water
- Baking soda
- A soft-bristled brush
- A clean towel
Make sure that you have all these materials ready before you start cleaning your climbing shoes.
Prepare the cleaning solution
To clean your climbing shoes, you will need to prepare a cleaning solution using baking soda. Here’s how to make the cleaning solution:
- Fill a bowl with warm water
- Add 3-4 tablespoons of baking soda to the bowl of water
- Mix the baking soda and water until the baking soda dissolves completely.
Clean the climbing shoes
Now that you have the cleaning solution ready, it’s time to clean your climbing shoes. Here’s how to do it:
- Dip the soft-bristled brush into the cleaning solution
- Gently scrub the surface of your climbing shoes with the brush, focusing on areas that have accumulated dirt or sweat
- Continue to scrub the shoes until you have covered the entire surface
- Pay particular attention to the soles and edges of the shoes, as these are the areas that accumulate the most dirt and sweat
- Dip the brush into the cleaning solution as needed to keep it moist
- If your climbing shoes have leather parts, be sure to use a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging the leather.
Rinse the shoes
After cleaning your climbing shoes, you will need to rinse them thoroughly to remove any remaining dirt and cleaning solution. Here’s how to do it:
- Dip a clean towel into a bowl of water
- Wring out the towel so that it’s damp but not soaking wet
- Use the damp towel to wipe down the surface of your climbing shoes, removing any remaining cleaning solution or dirt
- Rinse the towel as needed and continue to wipe the shoes until you’ve removed all the cleaning solution and dirt.
Dry the shoes
Once you’ve rinsed your climbing shoes, you’ll need to dry them properly before using them again. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a clean towel to wipe down the surface of your climbing shoes, removing any excess water
- Stuff the shoes with paper towels to help them retain their shape and absorb any remaining moisture
- Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area and allow them to air dry completely. Avoid placing the shoes in direct sunlight or using a dryer to speed up the drying process.
How often should you clean your climbing shoes?
To ensure the longevity of your climbing shoes, it’s important to know how often to clean them. The frequency with which you clean your climbing shoes will depend on how often you use them and how dirty they get.
However, a good rule of thumb is to clean your climbing shoes after every use or every few uses, especially if you have been climbing outdoors or in hot, sweaty conditions.
Related: Must-Have Climbing Protection Devices
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use vinegar instead of baking soda to clean my climbing shoes?
Yes, vinegar is another effective natural cleaner that you can use to clean your climbing shoes. To use vinegar, mix equal parts vinegar and water and follow the same steps as outlined above.
- Is it safe to put climbing shoes in the washing machine?
No, it is not recommended to put your climbing shoes in the washing machine as it can damage the shoes and affect their performance.
- Can I use a stiff-bristled brush to clean my climbing shoes?
No, it is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush to clean your climbing shoes as stiff bristles can damage the material of the shoes.
- What should I do if my climbing shoes smell bad even after cleaning?
If your climbing shoes still smell bad even after cleaning, you can try placing them in a sealed bag with baking soda overnight. The baking soda will absorb any remaining odor. Alternatively, you can try using odor-eliminating sprays or odor-absorbing inserts.
- How can I prevent my climbing shoes from getting dirty in the first place?
To prevent your climbing shoes from getting dirty, you can wear shoe covers or toe caps when walking to and from climbs. You can also use a shoe brush to remove any dirt or debris from the shoes after each climb.
Conclusion
Cleaning your climbing shoes with baking soda is a simple and effective way to ensure that your shoes perform optimally and last longer. With the right materials and proper technique, you can easily clean your climbing shoes at home.
Remember to clean your climbing shoes regularly and follow the tips outlined above to ensure that they stay in good condition for years to come.