Knowing what your sneakers are made of is the key to cleaning them without damage. Here is what goes into most X9X sneakers, followed by simple cleaning steps for each material. The exact materials for every style are listed on its product page.
What X9X sneakers are made of
- Uppers: most X9X styles use breathable mesh or knit. Some add leather, suede or nubuck overlays — for example ARTEMIS 'Scribbled Myth' pairs mesh with nubuck.
- Support details: some styles use TPU overlays or lacing cages for structure.
- Linings and insoles: soft textile linings, often padded, with fabric or EVA insoles.
- Midsoles: lightweight EVA foam for cushioning.
- Outsoles: rubber for grip and durability — translucent on some designs.
- Foam sneakers such as 'Gladiator Glide' are moulded from a single piece of foam.
Before you start
- Remove the laces and, if they lift out, the insoles.
- Knock off dry dirt and brush away dust with a soft brush.
- Use cold or lukewarm water and a mild soap. Avoid bleach and strong solvents.
- Test any cleaner on a small hidden area first.
Mesh and knit uppers
- Mix a few drops of mild soap into a bowl of cold water.
- Dip a soft brush or cloth and work in small circles, without soaking the shoe.
- Wipe off the suds with a clean damp cloth.
- Stuff with paper towels and leave to air-dry at room temperature.
Suede and nubuck
- Keep these parts as dry as possible — water can mark them.
- Use a suede brush or eraser to lift marks, brushing in one direction.
- Restore the nap with a light brush once dry.
- A suede protector spray helps repel water and stains.
Leather details
Wipe with a damp cloth and a little mild soap, dry with a soft cloth, then use a leather conditioner occasionally to keep it supple.
Midsoles and outsoles
Scrub the rubber and foam with a firmer brush and soapy water. For scuffs on white midsoles, a melamine sponge (used gently) works well. Rinse the brush often so you don't spread dirt back onto the sole.
Foam sneakers
One-piece foam sneakers are the easiest to clean: rinse them under cold water, scrub with a soft brush and mild soap, rinse again and air-dry out of direct sun.
Moon boots
Brush off dry dirt, wipe the outer with a damp cloth and mild soap, and let them dry naturally at room temperature. Keep them away from radiators and direct heat. Treat any suede panels as described above.
Drying, odours and storage
- Never use a washing machine or tumble dryer — heat and spinning can warp the foam and loosen glued parts.
- Air-dry with paper stuffed inside, away from radiators and direct sunlight.
- Wash laces separately by hand, and let insoles dry fully before putting them back.
- Bicarbonate of soda sprinkled inside overnight helps with odours — tip it out in the morning.
- Store in a cool, dry place; stuffing with paper helps keep the shape.
FAQs
Can I put X9X sneakers in the washing machine?
We don't recommend it. Heat and spinning can warp EVA foam and loosen glued parts. Clean by hand with cold water and mild soap instead.
How do I clean white soles?
Scrub with a firm brush and soapy water; for scuffs, use a melamine sponge gently, then rinse and air-dry.
Are X9X sneakers waterproof?
Most X9X sneakers have breathable mesh or knit uppers, so they are not waterproof. Check the product page for each style's materials.
How should I dry wet sneakers?
Stuff them with paper towels and air-dry at room temperature, away from radiators and direct sunlight.
How do I clean suede or nubuck parts?
Keep them dry, lift marks with a suede brush or eraser, and use a suede protector spray to help repel water.