How to Clean Climbing Shoes: Keep Them Fresh and Lasting
Hey there, fellow climber! Remember that time you laced up your favorite pair of climbing shoes after a long session at the crag, only to be hit with a wave of that not-so-fresh scent? Yeah, me too. I've been scaling rocks for years now, and nothing stings quite like realizing your trusty slippers are betraying you with their smell. But here's the good news: with a little know-how, you can keep those shoes clean, odor-free, and ready for your next ascent. Cleaning climbing shoes isn't just about vanity—it's about making your gear last longer and perform better. Let's dive in and get your feet happy again.
Key Takeaways
- Always air-dry climbing shoes naturally to avoid material damage and lingering moisture that breeds smells.
- Use natural sprays like our Citrus Tea Tree Shoe Deodorizer for quick odor control without harsh chemicals.
- Spot-clean with mild solutions to preserve the rubber and leather, extending shoe life by months or even years.
Table of Contents
- Why Clean Your Climbing Shoes Regularly?
- Understanding Different Types of Climbing Shoes
- Daily Maintenance: Keeping Odors at Bay
- Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Guide
- Tackling Tough Odors: Natural Solutions That Work
- Expert's Toolkit: Recommended Resources
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Clean Your Climbing Shoes Regularly?
Picture this: You're gearing up for a big climb, but your shoes feel sticky from old chalk and sweat. Or worse, they reek, distracting you from the route. Cleaning isn't a chore—it's essential. Sweat and dirt build up fast in climbing shoes, breaking down materials like suede or synthetic uppers over time. If you ignore it, you're looking at cracked randing or delaminated soles sooner than you'd like.
Regular cleaning preserves the friction you need for edging and smearing. It also stops bacteria from thriving in that damp environment, which is what causes those stubborn smells. Think about it: Would you wear the same socks for a week? Your shoes deserve better. Plus, fresh gear boosts your confidence—nothing like knowing your slippers are as clean as your sends.
From my own trips, I've seen buddies toss perfectly good shoes because they didn't maintain them. Don't let that be you. A quick clean after each session can add seasons to their life.
Understanding Different Types of Climbing Shoes
Not all climbing shoes are created equal, and how you clean them depends on the type. Let's break it down so you don't accidentally wreck your pair.
Resoled Slipper-Style Shoes
These soft, unlined beauties are for bouldering or gym sessions. They're sensitive to water, so stick to dry brushing for the exterior. Inside, focus on ventilation to keep them breathable.
Velcro Approach Shoes
More durable with laces or straps, these handle hikes to the crag. They can take a gentle wipe-down, but avoid soaking the mesh parts that let your feet breathe.
High-Performance Downturned Models
With aggressive shapes and sticky rubber, these need careful spot-cleaning. Harsh soaps can strip the Vibram rubber, reducing grip.
Whatever your style, always check the manufacturer's tag. I've learned the hard way that one-size-fits-all cleaning doesn't cut it.
Daily Maintenance: Keeping Odors at Bay
You don't need a full overhaul every day—just smart habits. Start by removing insoles after each use. Let everything air out in a cool, dry spot. Sunlight? Skip it; UV rays fade colors and weaken fabrics.
Sprinkle some baking soda inside overnight—it absorbs moisture like a champ. Shake it out in the morning, and you're good. For a quick refresh, a natural spray does wonders. Our Natural Citrus Tea Tree Shoe Deodorizer Spray is my go-to; it's gentle on materials and leaves a zesty scent that doesn't overpower.
I'm a flight attendant so my shoes get worn A LOT and in a variety of temperatures. This has completely eliminated odor from 3 years worth of work in my shoes.
Rotate pairs if you can. Wearing the same shoes every day traps sweat, inviting trouble. And always untie laces fully—tight knots create creases that harbor dirt.
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Guide
When it's time for a thorough scrub, follow these steps. I've tested them on my own gear, from well-worn Five Ten's to La Sportiva's.
- Prep Your Space: Work outdoors or over a towel. Gather a soft brush, mild soap (like castile), and lukewarm water.
- Remove Loose Debris: Knock shoes together or use compressed air to clear chalk and dirt. Don't forget the treads—grit there affects your footing.
- Spot-Clean the Exterior: Mix soap with water, dip your brush, and gently scrub. For leather, use a damp cloth; synthetics can handle a bit more moisture. Rinse lightly—never submerge.
- Handle the Interior: Wipe with a vinegar-water mix (1:1) for bacteria. Let it sit 10 minutes, then rinse and dry.
- Dry Properly: Stuff with newspaper to absorb moisture, and place in a breezy area. Fans speed things up without heat. Full dry takes 24-48 hours.
Pro tip: For stained rubber, a magic eraser works magic. Just don't overdo it, or you'll wear down the grip.
Tackling Tough Odors: Natural Solutions That Work
Odors are the real enemy—caused by bacteria feasting on sweat. Harsh chemicals? No thanks. Go natural.
✅ DO: Spray with essential oil blends like tea tree or citrus. They neutralize smells at the source. ✅ DO: Freeze shoes overnight in a bag—cold kills bacteria without effort. ❌ DON'T: Use bleach; it degrades materials. ❌ DON'T: Microwave or oven-dry; heat warps shapes.
If odors persist, check out our related guide on Why Your Shoes Stink & How to Eliminate Odor Permanently. It's packed with more insights.
This stuff is awesome! My son's sneakers get really stinky even when I used Stink Stoppers, Odor Eaters and similar sprays. Those only mask the odor for a little while but then they end up smelling like a combination of sweaty feet and baby powder. This stuff just kills/prevents odor from developing. I have to wear orthotics and those can get not-so-fresh as well. I use the spray on my orthotics and in my shoes. I've also just sprayed my feet before putting on socks and that works just as well.
For storage, a room spray keeps your gear bag fresh. Try the Peppermint Vanilla Room Spray—it's invigorating and safe around the house.
Expert's Toolkit: Recommended Resources
After years of trial and error, these are my must-haves for climbing shoe care.
First, the Natural Citrus Tea Tree Shoe Deodorizer Spray. It's perfect for post-climb refreshes—neutralizes odors with bright lemon and orange oils, safe for all materials. No more synthetic fog masking the problem; this eliminates it.
For deeper cleans, pair it with a Lavender Vanilla Room Spray to freshen your drying area. The soothing scent enhances your space while tackling any lingering whiffs.
Want more DIY ideas? Check DIY Shoe Deodorizer: Fresh Footwear Solutions or Stinky Wet Boots? Fix Them FAST! No More Odors.
This product is amazing! I will definitely be buying its again. It has a great smell and it eliminates the Oder out of my gums shoes fast!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I've made them all, so learn from my slip-ups. Washing machines? Tempting, but they twist shapes and strip adhesives. Heat drying? It shrinks leather. And ignoring odors leads to permanent stink—address it early.
Another no-no: Overloading with powder. It clumps and stains. Stick to light applications.
Wrapping It Up: Fresh Feet, Better Climbs
Cleaning your climbing shoes is simpler than a V0, but the payoff is huge—longer-lasting gear, better performance, and no more awkward gym glances. Start with daily habits, deep clean when needed, and reach for natural tools. Your next project will thank you. Happy climbing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put climbing shoes in the washing machine?
No, it's risky. The agitation can damage the structure and glue. Hand-clean instead for safety.
How often should I clean my climbing shoes?
Daily for quick wipes, deep clean every 4-6 uses or when odors build up.
What if my shoes still smell after cleaning?
Try freezing them or a stronger natural deodorizer. Persistent smells might mean replacing insoles.
Are natural sprays safe for all shoe materials?
Yes, most like citrus-based ones are gentle on rubber, leather, and synthetics.
How do I store clean climbing shoes?
In a cool, dry place with laces loose. Use cedar blocks for extra freshness.