Ever wonder how to clean your running shoes properly? I mean, when you “wash” them, sometimes they get ruined OR they have dark marks near the sole. Some say you should turn them over when drying to avoid that. Anyway, I found this article as I was browsing.

How to Clean Athletic Shoes

Things You’ll Need:

• Soft Brushes
• Shoe Shining/cleaning Kits
• Shoe Inserts
• Shoelaces
• Shoekeepers
• Athletic Shoe Cleaners

Step1
Prepare a solution of water and a neutral cleaner (such as liquid dish-washing detergent or another mild product).

Step2
Remove laces and inserts and rinse the shoes with water inside and out.

Step3
Use a soft brush and the cleaning solution to scrub every part of both shoes, including liners and insoles.

Step4
Remove scuff marks with a white nylon-backed scrub pad.

Step5
Rinse the shoes thoroughly with water.

Step6
Stuff the shoes with paper (not newspaper’the ink will run and make a mess) to absorb excess water and to help the shoes keep their shape. Allow them to drip-dry.

Step7
Wash the laces in a load of laundry. Allow the inserts to air out, and apply baking soda to them if they’re smelly.

Step8
Replace the inserts and laces after the shoes dry completely.

Step9
Apply white cream shoe polish to white leather parts and black polish to black leather parts.

[source: "How to Clean Athletic Shoes" by eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor]