How To Clean Jordan 11s: The Ultimate Sneaker Care Guide

Author Freeman 09 Apr 2025

Let’s face it—your Jordan 11s are more than just sneakers. They’re a statement, a piece of art, and a reflection of your style. But let’s be real, dirt happens, and so does wear and tear. If you’re wondering how to clean Jordan 11s properly, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to keep those kicks looking fresh as the day you bought them.

Whether you’ve been rocking them on the court or just showing off at a casual hangout, your Jordan 11s deserve some TLC. This isn’t just about cleaning; it’s about preserving the legacy of one of the most iconic sneakers ever made. So grab your supplies, and let’s get started!

Before we dive in, here’s a quick heads-up: this guide is packed with tips and tricks from sneaker enthusiasts and experts alike. We’re not just throwing random advice at you—we’re giving you the tools to turn your dirty Jordans into showroom-ready masterpieces. Ready? Let’s go!

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Why Cleaning Your Jordan 11s Matters

Alright, listen up. Your Jordan 11s aren’t just shoes—they’re an investment. And like any investment, they require maintenance. If you’re ignoring the dirt, scuffs, and stains, you’re basically letting their value (and your pride) go down the drain. But why does cleaning matter so much?

For starters, a clean pair of Jordans looks better, feels better, and lasts longer. The materials used in Jordan 11s—like the patent leather, mesh, and rubber soles—are delicate and can degrade over time if not cared for properly. Plus, who wants to rock a pair of sneakers that look like they’ve seen better days?

Here’s the kicker: cleaning your Jordan 11s isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about respect—for the brand, for the design, and for yourself. So if you’re ready to step up your sneaker game, let’s talk about how to clean Jordan 11s the right way.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you start scrubbing, you need the right tools. Think of it like cooking—if you don’t have the right ingredients, the dish won’t turn out right. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mild Dish Soap: Think Dawn or something similar. It’s gentle enough for your sneakers but tough enough to tackle grime.
Soft Brushes: A toothbrush or a dedicated sneaker brush works wonders for getting into those hard-to-reach spots.
Clean Towels: Microfiber towels are your best friend here. They’re lint-free and won’t scratch the leather.
White Vinegar: This is a sneaker cleaner’s secret weapon. It helps break down stains and odors without damaging the material.
Baking Soda: Perfect for tackling stubborn scuffs and stains on the soles.
Water: Plain old H2O. You don’t need anything fancy here.

Pro tip: Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach. They might seem like quick fixes, but they’ll ruin your sneakers faster than you can say “Jumpman.”

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Jordan 11s

Now that you’ve got your supplies ready, let’s break down the process step by step. This isn’t rocket science, but it does require some attention to detail. Here’s how to clean Jordan 11s like a pro:

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Step 1: Remove the Laces

The first thing you want to do is take out the laces. Trust me, this makes a huge difference. Not only does it make the cleaning process easier, but it also allows you to clean the laces separately. If your laces are looking extra dingy, soak them in a mixture of water and mild detergent for about 10 minutes before scrubbing gently with a toothbrush.

Step 2: Dust Off the Sneakers

Use a soft brush or a dry towel to remove any loose dirt or debris. This is especially important if you’ve been wearing your Jordan 11s outdoors. You don’t want to get dirt trapped in the fibers while you’re cleaning.

Step 3: Clean the Upper

For the patent leather upper, mix a small amount of dish soap with water to create a soapy solution. Dip your brush into the solution and gently scrub the leather. Be careful not to soak the material—just dampen it. For the mesh panels, use the same solution but with a slightly firmer brush to get rid of any dirt buildup.

Step 4: Tackle the Soles

The soles are where most of the action happens, so they’re usually the dirtiest part of the shoe. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a bowl, then dip a brush into the solution. Scrub the soles gently, paying extra attention to any scuffs or stains. For stubborn marks, sprinkle a little baking soda on the area before scrubbing.

Step 5: Let Them Dry

Once you’ve cleaned the entire sneaker, let them air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can warp the materials. If you’re in a hurry, you can stuff the sneakers with paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.

Step 6: Polish the Leather

For that extra shine, use a leather conditioner or polish specifically designed for patent leather. Apply it evenly with a clean cloth, then buff it off for a mirror-like finish. Your Jordan 11s will look like they just came out of the box!

Tips for Maintaining Your Jordan 11s

Cleaning your Jordan 11s is one thing, but maintaining them is another. Here are a few tips to keep your sneakers looking fresh:

Avoid wearing them in wet or muddy conditions. Water and dirt are the enemies of any sneaker.
Store them in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing them. Consider using a shoe rack to keep them organized.
Use shoe trees or stuff them with paper to maintain their shape.
Rotate your sneakers. Don’t wear your Jordan 11s every day—give them a break once in a while.

Remember, prevention is key. The less dirt and grime you allow to build up, the easier it will be to clean them when the time comes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s talk about what NOT to do when cleaning your Jordan 11s. These are some common mistakes that can damage your sneakers:

Using bleach or harsh chemicals. They might seem like quick fixes, but they’ll ruin the materials.
Soaking the entire sneaker in water. This can warp the leather and ruin the structure of the shoe.
Using a hairdryer to speed up the drying process. Heat can cause the materials to shrink or crack.
Not cleaning the laces separately. Dirty laces can transfer grime back onto the sneakers.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure that your Jordan 11s stay in top condition for years to come.

How Often Should You Clean Your Jordan 11s?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. How often you clean your Jordan 11s depends on how frequently you wear them and the conditions they’re exposed to. If you’re wearing them every day, you might need to clean them once a week. If you only wear them occasionally, once every few months should suffice.

Here’s a quick guide:

Daily Wear: Clean once a week
Occasional Wear: Clean once a month
Seasonal Wear: Clean before and after storage

Regular cleaning not only keeps your sneakers looking great but also extends their lifespan. It’s a win-win!

Professional Sneaker Cleaning Services

If you’re not into DIY or you want to ensure your Jordan 11s get the best care possible, consider using a professional sneaker cleaning service. These services specialize in restoring sneakers to their former glory, often using techniques and tools that aren’t available to the average person.

Some popular options include:

While these services can be pricey, they’re worth it if you want to ensure your sneakers are in the best possible condition.

DIY Sneaker Cleaning Hacks

Not everyone has the budget or time to take their sneakers to a professional cleaner. That’s where DIY hacks come in. Here are a few tried-and-true methods for cleaning your Jordan 11s at home:

Hack 1: Magic Eraser

Believe it or not, a Magic Eraser can work wonders on scuffs and stains. Simply dampen the eraser and gently rub the affected area. It’s like magic—hence the name!

Hack 2: Baking Soda Paste

Mix baking soda with a little water to create a paste. Apply it to stubborn stains and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing gently with a brush. Rinse with water and let dry.

Hack 3: Toothpaste

White toothpaste is another great option for cleaning scuffs and stains. Apply it to the affected area, scrub gently, and rinse with water. Your sneakers will look like new in no time!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—your ultimate guide to cleaning Jordan 11s. Whether you’re a sneakerhead or just someone who loves their kicks, proper care is essential. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll ensure that your Jordan 11s stay looking fresh and feeling great for years to come.

Now, here’s your call to action: take a moment to share this article with your sneaker-loving friends. Or, if you have any questions or tips of your own, drop them in the comments below. Together, we can keep the sneaker community shining bright!