How to Clean On Cloud Shoes | Hand-Wash Steps

On’s signature CloudTec pods and lightweight mesh pick up grime quickly, and the wrong cleaning routine can break down the adhesives that hold the shoe together. Wondering how to clean On Cloud shoes without ruining the midsole? The safe route is simpler than most people expect — no machines, no harsh chemicals, just a few minutes at the sink.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather these before touching the shoes:

• A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
• Mild detergent — a drop of dish soap or laundry liquid works
• A bowl of cool or lukewarm water, never hot
• Two clean cloths — one for scrubbing, one for wiping
• Paper towels for drying

The Step-by-Step Hand Wash Method

On’s official care guidance recommends brushing off loose dirt and using a soft shoe brush or toothbrush, with removable insoles cleaned separately. Follow this order and your Clouds will come out looking close to new.

1. Remove the laces and insoles. Both clean better outside the shoe, and the upper is easier to reach.
2. Brush off loose dirt. Knock the soles together, then sweep the upper with your dry brush to lift surface grit.
3. Mix your cleaning solution. Add a small squirt of mild detergent to the water and stir.
4. Scrub the upper gently. Dip the brush, work in circular motions over the mesh, and don’t press hard — aggressive scrubbing frays the fabric.
5. Clean the midsole and CloudTec pods. Use a medium or soft brush here, taking care around the hollow pods where dirt collects.
6. Wipe away soap residue. Rinse the cloth, wring it well, and wipe the whole shoe until no suds remain.
7. Scrub the insoles separately. On’s tennis-shoe care article says removable insoles should be scrubbed with a soapy solution on their own. Rinse and set them aside.
8. Air-dry at room temperature. Stuff the shoes with paper towels to absorb moisture and hold their shape, then leave them in a ventilated spot.

When the paper towels are damp, swap them for dry ones to speed things along. Plan on at least 24 hours before the shoes are wearable again.

What to Avoid and How to Handle the Exceptions

Hot water, bleach, and harsh chemicals can damage the structural adhesives, CloudTec pods, and mesh, so keep the temperature cool and the soap mild. A few other rules matter just as much.

• Never machine dry. The heat warps the foam and can separate the sole. Air-drying is the only safe finish.
• Don’t soak the whole shoe. A long bath lets water work into the adhesives. Keep the process to a damp scrub, not a dunk.
• Leave the insoles out until fully dry. Reinserting them while damp traps moisture and invites odor.

Can you machine wash On Clouds at all? If you absolutely must, run a cold, gentle cycle with the shoes inside a laundry bag and add towels for cushioning. Treat that as a last resort, not the standard approach — hand washing keeps the shoes intact far longer.

Once your pair is looking fresh again, a good set of cushioned cloud slippers for everyday wear can keep the comfort going when the sneakers come off.