How to Clean On Cloud Sneakers

Why On Cloud sneakers need a careful routine

On Cloud sneakers combine a breathable mesh upper with a CloudTec outsole made up of visible pods. That design makes them light and comfortable, but it also means dirt collects in the gaps between the pods and along the mesh. A regular cleaning routine keeps the upper looking tidy and stops grime from setting in.

The idea is to clean with as little friction and as mild a cleaning solution as possible. Avoid stiff brushes, strong solvents and hot water, because all three can damage the mesh or the exposed pods. For most On Cloud models, a soft brush and cool water are enough for routine maintenance.

A little groundwork before each clean makes the job easier. Dry brushing lifts loose dust, then you can decide whether a full wash is needed or only a targeted wipe. Pay attention to the areas that touch the ground and the edges of the pods, because that is where the heaviest buildup happens.

Before you start: remove laces and insoles

Take out the laces and any removable insole before you touch the upper. This exposes the tongue and the inside of the shoe, and it stops wet laces from rubbing dirt into the mesh while you work. You can clean the laces separately with the same mild soapy water.

Give the whole shoe a dry brush pass first. Use a soft brush to lift loose dust from the mesh and from the edge where the upper meets the sole. If you need to retie the laces afterward, a quick look at lacing techniques can help you get the fit back to normal.

Clean the CloudTec pods without soaking them

The CloudTec pods sit openly on the outside of the sole, so they collect dust, sand and rubber marks faster than the rest of the shoe. Clean them with a damp cloth or a soft brush dipped in a small amount of mild detergent, and work pod by pod instead of scrubbing the whole sole at once.

For stubborn marks, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping. Do not use a sharp tool to dig out debris, and do not pry at the pods. The pods are separate elements, and the attachment point should not be stressed. If a pod ever looks loose, inspect the shoe before cleaning it again and see the pod detachment guide for what to look for.

Treat the mesh upper gently

The mesh upper is made of an open material that lets air pass through, and that surface catches dirt quickly. Mix a small amount of mild detergent into cool water, wet a soft brush or microfiber cloth, and work in short, light strokes along the mesh. Avoid pressing hard enough to distort the shape.

Do not submerge the whole shoe. The inside of an On Cloud sneaker contains materials that dry slowly, so a fully soaked shoe can keep moisture against your foot for a long time. Clean the upper section by section and rinse by wiping with a clean, damp cloth. For more on mesh care, see the mesh upper guide and this overview of upper materials.

Dry the sneakers the right way

After cleaning, press a dry towel against the sneakers to remove extra water, then set them in a well-ventilated spot at room temperature. Keep them away from radiators, direct sunlight and dryers. Heat can stiffen the mesh and can cause foam parts to break down faster, even when the change is not visible at first.

Stuff the shoes with plain paper or a clean cloth so they hold their shape and pull moisture from the inside. Replace the stuffing if it becomes damp, and leave the laces and insoles out until everything is completely dry. If you are short on time, the fast drying guide explains safer ways to speed things up.

Keep On Cloud sneakers fresh between deep cleanings

A short maintenance routine between full cleanings goes a long way. Wipe the outsole with a damp cloth after dusty days, brush the mesh with a dry soft brush before dirt has time to set, and leave the shoes in a dry, airy room overnight.

Foot odor usually starts inside the shoe rather than in the mesh. Clean the insoles separately if they are removable, and use the deodorizing guide for smells that still linger. Keeping the inside dry is the most effective step you can take between washes.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I put On Cloud sneakers in the washing machine?

Hand cleaning is the safer option. Machine agitation can stress the CloudTec pods and mesh, and the inside of the shoe may not dry completely. If you do use a washing machine, use a cold, gentle cycle and never put the sneakers in a dryer.

How do I get dark marks off the CloudTec pods?

Dampen a cloth or soft brush with a little mild detergent and wipe each pod separately. Let the solution sit for a few minutes on stubborn marks, then wipe again with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid stiff scouring pads and sharp tools.

How do I clean white mesh on On Cloud sneakers?

Start with the gentlest method: use a dry soft brush to lift loose dirt, then dab the mesh with mild soapy water on a soft cloth. Rinse by dabbing with clean water and air dry. Regular light cleaning helps prevent white mesh from yellowing.

What should I avoid when cleaning On Cloud sneakers?

Avoid hot water, harsh solvents, bleach and stiff brushes. Do not soak the whole shoe, and do not dry it with direct heat. Strong chemicals can damage the mesh and pods and may irritate skin.

How should I dry my On Cloud sneakers after cleaning?

Air dry them at room temperature with the laces and insoles removed. Place plain paper or a clean cloth inside to help hold the shape, and keep the shoes away from radiators, sunlight and dryers.

How can I stop odor if I cannot wash the whole shoe often?

Dry the shoes thoroughly after each wear, brush the upper with a dry soft brush, and clean the insoles separately if they are removable. The deodorizing guide has more steps for persistent smells.