Keep your padel shoes fresh and strong with simple habits

Want your padel shoes to last longer, stay fresh, and maintain their grip? Then regular cleaning, proper airing, and smart storage are essential.

After an intense training or match, your shoes deserve just as much care as your racket or clothing. Especially if you often play on artificial grass or sandy surfaces, your shoes go through a lot. With the right care, you not only keep them fresh but also significantly extend their lifespan.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to do it easily, no expensive products or complicated steps needed.

Why cleaning, airing, and storing your shoes matters

Sweat, sand, and dirt build up in the fabric and soles over time. If you do nothing, your shoes may start to smell, wear out faster, or even lose their shape. A few simple habits can prevent this:

• Cleaning helps avoid odor and material wear
• Airing prevents mold and keeps the inner lining dry
• Proper storage maintains the shape and grip of the shoes

Tip: Make it part of your routine after every session.

How to clean padel shoes safely

There’s no need to throw your shoes in the washing machine — in fact, that’s discouraged. Washing machines can damage the structure and reduce cushioning.
Here’s the best way to clean them:

Step-by-step cleaning

1. Shake out loose dirt: Hold the shoes upside down and tap the soles gently.
2. Use a soft brush or old toothbrush: Ideal for the upper fabric, seams, and grooves in the sole.
3. Make a mild soap solution: Use lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle soap, avoid harsh cleaners.
4. Wipe with a cloth or sponge: No need to soak them, slightly damp is enough.
5. Air dry naturally: Place them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

Airing your padel shoes: the golden habit

After a match, shoes are often damp from sweat or rain. Leaving them in a sealed bag creates a breeding ground for bacteria and odor.

How to air them properly

• Take them out of your bag immediately
• Place them in a dry, well-ventilated space
• Remove the insoles and let them air separately
• Stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture if needed
• Use a deodorizer or shoe spray if you like (optional)

Important: Never place shoes near a heater this can damage the glue, sole, and cushioning.

How to store your shoes correctly

Between sessions, it’s best to store your shoes neatly and dry. A sports bag is handy for transport, but not ideal for long-term storage.

Smart storage tips

• Use a breathable bag or open shoe rack
• Store in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight
• Use shoe trees if you won’t wear them for a while
• Avoid plastic bags — they trap moisture
• Wash insoles separately from time to time for extra freshness

Common mistakes to avoid

• Putting shoes in the washing machine: This can ruin the materials and structure.
• Storing in closed bags: Encourages heat and odor build-up.
• Drying on heaters: This shortens the lifespan of cushioning and glue.
• Skipping maintenance altogether: Leads to faster wear and tear than necessary.