How to Renew and Update Your Sneakers for the Summer
As the sun comes out and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to give your sneakers a fresh start for the summer. Instead of tossing worn pairs or buying new ones unnecessarily, a little care and creativity can breathe new life into your kicks. Plus, with the environmental toll of the footwear industry in mind, maintaining and renewing your sneakers is one of the smartest and greenest things you can do. This guide covers everything—from basic sneaker care to eco-conscious renewal tips, vegan sneaker brands, and where to wash or update your shoes in Sweden, the US, the UK, and beyond.
Why Sneaker Care Matters: The Environmental Cost of Shoes
Over 20 billion pairs of shoes are produced each year, and roughly 300 million are thrown away annually.
Traditional sneakers are often made with materials like synthetic rubber, leather, and plastic foam, which can take 30–40 years to decompose.
Manufacturing sneakers typically involves high carbon emissions and toxic adhesives that harm workers and ecosystems.
Renewing and caring for your sneakers can reduce waste, lower demand for fast fashion, and keep your environmental footprint smaller.
Summer Sneaker Care Essentials
1. Cleaning and Washing
Spot Cleaning: Use a mix of warm water and gentle soap. An old toothbrush helps lift dirt from seams and soles.
Deep Cleaning: Remove the laces and insoles. Machine wash only if your sneakers are labeled as machine-safe. Use a laundry bag and cold water cycle.
Drying: Always air dry—never use a dryer, which can damage the structure and glue of the shoe.
2. Odor Control
Sprinkle baking soda in the soles overnight.
Insert cedar wood insoles or activated charcoal bags to neutralize smells.
3. Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place.
Use shoe trees or stuff with newspaper to maintain shape.
Repair & Update Your Sneakers
Replace laces and insoles for an instant refresh.
Use fabric paint or markers for a new color twist or design.
Apply shoe glue to fix sole separation.
Cover worn-out spots with patches or embroidery.
Professional Repair & Customization Services
UK:
The Shoe Laundry (London & Manchester) – offers sneaker cleaning and repair.
Soleheaven Renew – specialist in sneaker refurbishments and upgrades.
US:
Jason Markk Flagship (Los Angeles) – premium cleaning services.
Reshoevn8r – nationwide mail-in sneaker cleaning and restoration.
Germany:
Sneaker Rescue (New York) – sustainable sneaker repair and renewal.
Where to Recycle or Donate Old Sneakers
Nike's Reuse-A-Shoe Program – available in many countries; grinds down old shoes into materials for courts and playgrounds.
GotSneakers (US) – collects used sneakers for recycling or redistribution.
Soles4Souls (Global) – gives gently worn shoes a second life in developing communities.
Vegan & Sustainable Sneaker Brands to Try
If you're looking to invest in a new pair, consider brands that focus on sustainable materials, ethical production, and vegan alternatives:
Veja (France) – uses organic cotton, wild Amazonian rubber, and recycled materials.
Flamingos' Life (Spain) – vegan sneakers made from corn waste, bamboo, and hemp.
Allbirds (US/NZ) – carbon-neutral brand with wool and plant-based shoes (includes vegan options).
Saola (France) – makes sneakers using algae foam and recycled plastic bottles.
Will’s Vegan Store (UK) – 100% vegan sneakers made in ethical European factories.
Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather (France) – PETA-approved and cruelty-free.
Bonus Tips for Sneaker Longevity
Rotate your pairs – wearing different sneakers allows each to breathe and recover.
Use a protective spray – apply eco-friendly water-repellent spray to shield against stains.
Avoid harsh weather – salt and slush can ruin materials. Store seasonal pairs properly.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Taking care of your sneakers isn’t just about keeping them looking fresh—it’s about choosing a more mindful approach to fashion. By cleaning, renewing, and supporting ethical brands and services, you extend your sneakers' lifespan and help reduce global waste.