Depending on what your insoles are made of, getting them too wet is extremely inadvisable.
Foam cushion or cloth covered insoles are especially susceptible to water damage. In the event that your insoles become water-logged, remove them from your shoes as soon as possible, gently pat with a dry towel to remove any surface moisture and place them in a spot with good ventilation, where they can lay flat. Allow to dry completely. Depending on how saturated your insoles are and the style of the insole, this can take from overnight to several days. Note: allowing your insoles to dry in shoes or while wearing them may result in reduced performance.
Is it time to wash those dirty insoles of yours, but you aren’t sure how?
Cleaning and maintaining insoles is actually a very simple task. For best results, wash your insoles with lukewarm water and a mild detergent or soap.
Do NOT let them soak or absorb too much water.
Be sure to avoid silicone-based cleaning products, as these types of soaps can result in damage to your insoles. For hard to remove stains, you can spot-treat by carefully scrubbing with a soft bristle toothbrush or similar. Be sure to rinse insoles well afterwards to remove excess water and dirt, then allow them to air dry completely.
Do NOT machine wash or machine dry.
These methods are appropriate for most insoles. You will find that manufacturers, such as Superfeet, 10 Seconds, Spenco or Powerstep, recommend similar shoe insole cleaning techniques, however, always read the cleaning instructions that were given to you when your purchase was made —usually found on the shoe insert box or enclosed paper instructions.
Taking care of your insoles will lengthen their life, and cleaning them frequently will keep them looking like new and help avoid odors and any permanent staining. As you take care of your insoles, they will take care of you, keeping your feet cushioned and supported.
When should I replace my insoles?
Typically, depending on the amount of wear and use, you should replace insoles every three to nine months. For more information on insoles, see our Insole Guide.