Cleaning climbing shoes is an essential part of maintaining their performance and extending their lifespan. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean climbing shoes effectively:
1. Remove any loose dirt or debris: Begin by tapping the soles of your climbing shoes together or gently brushing them with a soft brush to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Prepare a mild cleaning solution: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or climbing shoe cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or strong detergents as they can damage the shoe materials.
3. Submerge the shoes: Place the climbing shoes in the cleaning solution and gently agitate them for a few minutes. If needed, use a soft brush to scrub off any stubborn dirt or stains, paying extra attention to the shoe edges and sole.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any residue. Ensure that all soap is thoroughly washed off to prevent any slippery residue on the climbing surface.
5. Air dry in a cool, shaded area: After rinsing, pat the shoes dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause the materials to deteriorate. Instead, let them air dry in a cool, shaded area.
6. Deodorize if necessary: If your climbing shoes have developed an odor, sprinkle some baking soda or specialized shoe deodorizer inside each shoe. Let it sit overnight or for a few hours before tapping out or vacuuming the powder.
7. Store properly: Once dry and deodorized, store your climbing shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid tightly sealing them in a bag or container, as this can promote the growth of bacteria or cause them to lose their shape.
FAQs:
1. Can I machine wash my climbing shoes?
Answer: No, it is not recommended to machine-wash climbing shoes as this can cause damage to the delicate materials and compromise their performance.
2. Can I use regular household soap for cleaning my climbing shoes?
Answer: It is best to use a mild detergent or a specialized climbing shoe cleaner to clean your climbing shoes. Regular household soaps may contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the shoe materials.
3. How often should I clean my climbing shoes?
Answer: The frequency of cleaning your climbing shoes depends on how often you use them and the conditions you climb in. As a general guideline, it’s best to clean them every few weeks or whenever they become noticeably dirty.
4. Can I use a washing machine on a gentle cycle?
Answer: No, machine-washing climbing shoes, even on a gentle cycle, can cause damage to the shoes. It is best to hand wash them to ensure gentle cleaning.
5. Can I use a brush with stiff bristles to scrub my climbing shoes?
Answer: Using a brush with stiff bristles can potentially damage the delicate materials of climbing shoes. Instead, opt for a soft brush or cloth for scrubbing.
6. Is it necessary to deodorize climbing shoes?
Answer: Deodorizing climbing shoes is not mandatory, but it can help eliminate any odor buildup, especially if you frequently climb without socks.
7. Can I speed up the drying process with a hairdryer or heater?
Answer: It is not recommended to use a hairdryer or heater to speed up the drying process. High heat can damage the materials and cause the shoes to lose their shape.
BOTTOM LINE: Regularly cleaning and properly maintaining your climbing shoes will help preserve their performance, extend their lifespan, and ensure a comfortable climbing experience. Avoid using harsh chemicals, machine-washing, or exposing them to high heat and sunlight.
