Cleaning golf shoes regularly helps remove grass, mud, dirt, and moisture that can shorten their lifespan and affect traction. The best cleaning method depends on the shoe material, but most golf shoes can be cleaned safely with a soft brush, mild soap, lukewarm water, and a little patience.
Pay particular attention to the spikes or traction elements and the upper material. Dirt packed around the spikes can reduce grip, while mud and moisture left on leather can cause staining, cracking, or premature deterioration.
Why Should You Clean Golf Shoes?
Golf shoes are exposed to some of the dirtiest conditions on a golf course. Wet grass, mud, sand, leaves, fertilizer, and soil can all collect on the sole and upper.
Regular cleaning can help:
- Maintain traction.
- Prevent mud from hardening around the spikes.
- Keep leather and synthetic uppers looking better.
- Reduce unpleasant odors.
- Prevent dirt from becoming more difficult to remove.
- Extend the useful life of the shoes.
What You Need to Clean Golf Shoes
You do not need a complicated collection of cleaning products.
- A soft-bristled brush.
- An old toothbrush for small areas.
- A clean microfiber cloth or soft towel.
- Lukewarm water.
- A small amount of mild soap.
- A bowl or bucket.
- A spike wrench if your shoes use removable spikes.
- A suitable leather conditioner for genuine leather shoes.
Always check the care instructions supplied with your particular golf shoes before applying soap, conditioner, or other cleaning products.
How Often Should You Clean Golf Shoes?
It is a good idea to remove loose dirt after every round, particularly if you have played in wet or muddy conditions.
A deeper clean does not necessarily need to be done after every round. For many golfers, cleaning the shoes every few rounds or whenever they become visibly dirty is sufficient.
Wet-weather rounds deserve extra attention because moisture and mud can remain trapped around the sole and upper.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt
Start by knocking the soles together gently or brushing away loose grass and soil with a dry soft brush.
Do this before adding water. Removing dry dirt first prevents you from turning loose soil into a layer of mud that is harder to clean.
Pay attention to the area between the traction elements and around the edges of the sole.
Step 2: Remove the Spikes if Necessary
If your golf shoes have removable soft spikes, you can remove them for a more thorough cleaning.
Use the correct spike wrench for the particular spike system rather than forcing the spikes out with an unsuitable tool.
You do not necessarily need to remove the spikes every time you clean your shoes. Removing them is most useful when dirt or grass has become packed underneath or around them.
Step 3: Clean the Golf Shoe Spikes
Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to loosen dirt around each spike.
If the dirt is stubborn, use a small amount of lukewarm soapy water. Work the brush around the traction elements until the mud and grass are removed.
Do not use excessive force. The goal is to remove debris without damaging the spike, sole, or surrounding material.
Step 4: Clean Between the Spikes
Grass and mud often collect in the spaces between traction elements.
An old toothbrush is particularly useful here because its small bristles can reach areas that a larger shoe brush cannot.
For heavily compacted mud, allow it to soften with a little lukewarm water before brushing it away.
Step 5: Clean the Sole
Once the spikes and spaces between them are clear, clean the rest of the sole.
Use a damp brush to remove remaining soil and grass. Pay attention to the edges of the sole because dirt can become trapped where the upper meets the outsole.
Rinse the brush regularly rather than spreading dirty water back over the shoe.
Step 6: Clean the Leather Upper
If your golf shoes have a genuine leather upper, use a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush with a small amount of mild soapy water.
Work gently across the surface rather than soaking the leather.
For stubborn marks, use several light passes instead of aggressively scrubbing one area.
After cleaning, wipe away the remaining soap with a clean, damp cloth.
Should You Soak Leather Golf Shoes?
No. Avoid soaking genuine leather golf shoes.
Leather can absorb water, and prolonged exposure to moisture can affect its appearance and condition.
A damp cloth or lightly damp brush is usually enough for normal cleaning. If the shoes become heavily soaked during a round, allow them to dry naturally before conditioning them.
How to Clean White Leather Golf Shoes
White leather golf shoes tend to show dirt more easily, so regular cleaning is especially useful.
Start by removing loose dirt with a soft brush. Then use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap and gently work across the upper.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing because it can damage the finish and create uneven-looking areas.
After cleaning, wipe the shoes with a clean damp cloth and allow them to dry naturally.
How to Clean Synthetic Golf Shoe Uppers
Synthetic materials can often be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Use a soft brush for textured areas and seams where dirt collects.
Although synthetic uppers can be more water-resistant than leather, you should still avoid unnecessarily soaking the entire shoe unless the manufacturer specifically says that it is safe.
How to Clean Waterproof Golf Shoes
Waterproof golf shoes can still accumulate mud and dirt even when their membranes or treatments prevent water from entering easily.
Clean the exterior gently with water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the waterproof treatment.
After cleaning, allow the shoes to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
Should You Use Dish Soap on Golf Shoes?
A small amount of mild dish soap can sometimes be used for general cleaning, but a product specifically recommended for the shoe material is preferable.
Strong detergents and household cleaners can damage leather finishes, coatings, adhesives, or synthetic materials.
If you use soap, use only a small amount and rinse or wipe away the residue thoroughly.
Can You Use a Toothbrush to Clean Golf Shoes?
Yes. An old soft toothbrush is one of the most useful tools for cleaning golf shoes.
It is particularly effective around:
- Spikes.
- Traction grooves.
- Stitching.
- Sole edges.
- Small seams.
- Textured leather or synthetic panels.
Use a soft toothbrush rather than a stiff brush on delicate upper materials.
How to Remove Dried Mud From Golf Shoes
Do not immediately attack thick dried mud with aggressive scrubbing.
First, brush away as much loose material as possible. Then use a small amount of lukewarm water to soften stubborn areas.
Once the mud has softened, brush it away gently.
For mud around spikes, an old toothbrush can help break up compacted material without damaging the sole.
How to Remove Grass Stains From Golf Shoes
Grass stains are easier to remove when they are relatively fresh.
Use a damp cloth and mild soap, working gently over the affected area. Avoid aggressive rubbing, particularly on white leather or delicate finishes.
If a stain remains, use a shoe cleaner that is specifically designed for the material of your golf shoes and follow the manufacturers instructions.
How to Clean the Inside of Golf Shoes
The inside of golf shoes does not normally need to be soaked.
Remove the insoles if they are designed to come out and allow them to air separately. Wipe the interior with a lightly damp cloth if necessary.
Allow everything to dry completely before putting the insoles back in.
How to Dry Golf Shoes After Cleaning
Drying golf shoes correctly is just as important as cleaning them.
Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area at normal room temperature. Remove the insoles if possible and open the shoes as much as practical to allow air to circulate.
You can stuff them loosely with newspaper or absorbent paper to help draw out moisture, replacing it when it becomes wet.
Can You Put Golf Shoes in a Dryer?
Generally, you should avoid putting golf shoes in a clothes dryer unless the manufacturer specifically states that the shoes are dryer-safe.
High heat can affect leather, adhesives, waterproof membranes, synthetic materials, and other components.
Air drying is the safer option for most golf shoes.
Can You Dry Golf Shoes With a Hair Dryer?
It is better to avoid applying concentrated high heat directly to golf shoes.
A fan or normal room-temperature airflow is a safer way to speed up drying.
If you use a hair dryer, use only a cool or very low-temperature setting and keep it moving rather than directing hot air at one area.
Should You Condition Leather Golf Shoes?
Genuine leather golf shoes can benefit from appropriate leather conditioning.
Conditioner can help keep leather from becoming excessively dry, but you should use a product that is suitable for the particular leather and follow the shoe manufacturers care instructions.
Do not assume that every leather conditioner is appropriate for every type of leather or finish.
How Often Should You Condition Leather Golf Shoes?
There is no universal schedule because leather types and playing conditions differ.
Condition when the leather appears dry or when the manufacturers care instructions recommend it.
Over-conditioning is not necessarily beneficial, so use a small amount and follow the instructions for the product.
Should You Polish Golf Shoes?
Polishing can be appropriate for certain leather golf shoes, particularly traditional smooth leather models.
However, not every golf shoe should be polished. Some modern shoes have specialized finishes, synthetic materials, or waterproof treatments that may not respond well to conventional shoe polish.
Check the manufacturers care instructions before applying polish.
What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Golf Shoes?
Several common cleaning methods can do more harm than good.
- Do not soak genuine leather unnecessarily.
- Do not use bleach or harsh household chemicals.
- Do not aggressively scrub delicate uppers.
- Do not use very hot water.
- Do not put shoes in a hot dryer unless approved by the manufacturer.
- Do not place wet leather shoes directly on a radiator.
- Do not use sharp objects to dig dirt out of spikes or seams.
- Do not apply an untested cleaning product to the entire shoe without checking the material.
How to Clean Spikeless Golf Shoes
Spikeless golf shoes are usually straightforward to clean.
Brush away loose dirt, then use a damp cloth or soft brush with mild soap to clean the outsole and upper. Pay special attention to the small traction elements because mud can become packed between them.
Rinse or wipe away soap residue and allow the shoes to air dry naturally.
How to Clean Cleated Golf Shoes
Cleated golf shoes require additional attention around the cleats.
Remove grass and mud from between the cleats and inspect each cleat for damage or excessive wear.
If the cleats are removable, taking them out occasionally can make it easier to clean the mounting area and inspect the threads.
How to Know When Golf Spikes Need Replacing
Cleaning will not restore a worn spike.
Consider replacing spikes when the traction elements are visibly worn, damaged, cracked, or no longer provide the grip they once did.
If you frequently slip during your swing despite having clean shoes and suitable course conditions, worn traction elements may be part of the problem.
Should You Replace All Golf Spikes at Once?
It is generally sensible to replace the complete set of spikes when they are significantly worn so that traction remains consistent across the shoe.
If one spike is damaged, however, you should follow the replacement recommendations for your particular spike system.
How to Prevent Golf Shoes From Getting Too Dirty
A few simple habits can make cleaning much easier.
- Brush off loose dirt immediately after the round.
- Do not leave wet, muddy shoes sealed in a golf bag overnight.
- Let shoes dry completely before storing them.
- Keep a small shoe brush in your golf bag or car.
- Use separate shoes for very wet conditions if you have multiple pairs.
- Clean mud from the soles before it becomes completely dry and hard.
Can You Wash Golf Shoes in a Washing Machine?
You should not assume that golf shoes are machine-washable.
Some fabric or synthetic shoes may tolerate machine washing according to their manufacturers instructions, but leather shoes and shoes with specialized construction should generally be cleaned by hand.
Check the care label or manufacturers instructions before putting any golf shoes in a washing machine.
How to Clean Golf Shoes After a Muddy Round
After a particularly muddy round, let the heaviest mud loosen rather than immediately attacking the shoes with excessive force.
- Remove loose mud and grass with a brush.
- Remove the spikes if necessary.
- Clean around the traction elements with a soft brush.
- Use lukewarm water and mild soap on stubborn dirt.
- Wipe the upper gently.
- Remove soap residue with a clean damp cloth.
- Allow the shoes to air dry completely.
- Condition genuine leather if required.
- Inspect the spikes before your next round.
Golf Shoe Cleaning Checklist
| Task | How Often |
|---|---|
| Brush loose dirt from soles | After each round |
| Clean mud from spikes | When needed |
| Wipe the upper | Every few rounds or when dirty |
| Deep clean traction areas | As needed |
| Condition genuine leather | When the leather needs it |
| Inspect spikes for wear | Regularly |
| Air dry after wet rounds | Every time shoes become wet |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to clean golf shoes?
Remove loose dirt first, then use a soft brush or cloth with lukewarm water and mild soap. Clean the spikes and sole carefully, wipe the upper gently, and allow the shoes to air dry naturally.
Can you wash leather golf shoes with water?
Yes, but use water sparingly. A damp cloth or lightly damp brush is preferable to soaking genuine leather.
How do you clean mud from golf shoe spikes?
Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to loosen the mud. If it is dried and compacted, soften it with a small amount of lukewarm water before brushing it away.
Can you use dish soap on golf shoes?
A small amount of mild dish soap may work for some materials, but a cleaner specifically designed for the shoe material is preferable. Avoid strong detergents and chemicals.
Can golf shoes go in the washing machine?
Only if the manufacturer specifically says that they are machine-washable. Hand cleaning is generally the safer option, particularly for leather shoes.
Can you put golf shoes in the dryer?
Generally, no. Air drying is safer because high heat can damage leather, adhesives, waterproof materials, and synthetic components.
How do you keep white golf shoes clean?
Clean them regularly with a soft cloth, mild soap, and lukewarm water. Removing dirt soon after the round is easier than trying to remove old stains later.
How do you clean waterproof golf shoes?
Clean the exterior gently with water and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the waterproof treatment, and allow the shoes to air dry naturally.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your golf shoes does not need to be complicated. A soft brush, mild soap, lukewarm water, and a little care are usually enough to remove the dirt and grass picked up during a round.
The spikes or traction elements deserve special attention because packed mud and grass can reduce grip. Genuine leather uppers should be cleaned gently and kept away from excessive water and heat, while synthetic and waterproof materials should be treated according to the manufacturers care instructions.
Most importantly, do not leave wet or muddy golf shoes sitting in your bag. Give them a quick clean, let them dry naturally, and inspect the traction regularly. A few minutes of maintenance after a round can help keep your golf shoes comfortable, presentable, and ready for the next tee time.