How to Clean On Cloud Running and Tennis Shoes Safely
By Urban Style Footwear Editorial Team
If your On Cloud shoes have picked up road dust, mud, sweat or everyday grime, you do not need an aggressive cleaning routine. The safest starting point is simple: remove loose dirt, clean gently by hand with mild soap and lukewarm water, clean the laces and insoles separately, and let the shoes air dry at room temperature.
On’s own running-shoe care guide specifically advises against putting its running shoes in a washing machine or tumble dryer because heat, detergent exposure and mechanical movement can damage seams, bonding and the shoe’s structure. On Shop
This guide covers how to clean On Cloud running shoes, how to clean On Cloud tennis shoes, how to deal with stains and odor, and what to do instead of machine washing.
Quick Answer: What Is the Safest Way to Clean On Cloud Shoes?
For most On Cloud shoes:
- Remove the laces and insoles.
- Let wet mud dry before brushing it away.
- Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush.
- Mix a small amount of mild detergent with lukewarm water.
- Gently clean the upper with a soft brush, cloth or sponge.
- Clean the outsole and CloudTec® areas separately.
- Wipe away soap residue.
- Stuff the shoes with paper towels to help maintain their shape.
- Air dry them at room temperature.
- Do not use a washing machine, tumble dryer, radiator or direct heat.
On recommends hand cleaning and separately cleaning elements such as laces and insoles.
What You Need to Clean On Cloud Shoes
You do not need a professional sneaker-cleaning setup.
| Cleaning item | What it is used for |
| Soft-bristle brush | Upper and surface dirt |
| Old toothbrush | Small areas and outsole grooves |
| Mild detergent | Cleaning solution |
| Lukewarm water | Mixing the solution |
| Microfiber cloth | Wiping the shoe |
| Paper towels | Absorbing moisture and maintaining shape |
| Small bowl | Cleaning solution |
| Shoe-cleaning kit | Optional for deeper cleaning |
On’s own guide recommends mild detergent or clothing-safe soap, a soft brush or toothbrush, baking soda, a sponge or flannel, warm water and paper towels.
Shoe-Cleaning Products
If you clean sneakers regularly, a dedicated cleaner can make the process easier.
Useful Shoe Cleaning Products
These cleaning products can help with routine sneaker care. Choose a product based on your shoe’s materials and always follow the care instructions for your specific On Cloud model.
Shoe Cleaner Kit for Sneakers
A multi-material sneaker cleaner designed for materials including leather, suede, canvas and washable fabrics. Useful for routine sneaker cleaning when used according to the shoe manufacturer’s care instructions.
Jason Markk Essential Kit
A two-piece cleaning kit containing a cleaning solution and brush. The supplied product information describes the brush as suitable for more durable areas such as midsoles, rubber and plastic.
Crep Protect Sneaker Cleaner Kit
The supplied listing includes cleaning solution, a brush, microfiber cloth and carrying case. Useful if you regularly clean multiple pairs of sneakers.
Before using: Check the care instructions for your specific On Cloud model and test any cleaning product on a small, less visible area first. Different uppers and finishes may require different cleaning methods.
Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. UrbanStyleFootwear may earn a commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Prices, availability and product information can change, so check the current Amazon listing before purchasing.
How to Clean On Cloud Running Shoes Step by Step
Step 1: Remove the Laces and Insoles
Start by taking out the laces and removable insoles.
Cleaning these separately makes it easier to reach the shoe’s upper and allows the insoles to dry properly.
On recommends removing laces and insoles before cleaning.
For insoles, use a damp cloth and mild soap rather than aggressively soaking them unless the manufacturer’s care instructions specifically allow it.
Step 2: Remove Loose Dirt While the Shoes Are Dry
If your shoes have mud on them, let it dry first.
Then:
- Tap the soles together gently.
- Use a soft brush to remove surface dirt.
- Brush around the outsole and CloudTec® areas.
- Use an old toothbrush for smaller grooves.
Starting dry prevents loose dirt from turning into a muddy paste during the first stage of cleaning.
This dry-brushing approach is also recommended in On’s own care guidance.
Step 3: Make a Mild Cleaning Solution
Add a small amount of mild detergent to lukewarm water.
You do not need a highly concentrated solution. The goal is to loosen dirt without saturating the shoe with cleaning product.
Avoid:
- bleach
- harsh solvents
- strong household cleaners
- very hot water
On recommends mild detergent or clothing-safe soap and warns against harsh cleaning approaches.
Step 4: Gently Clean the Upper
Dip a soft brush, sponge or cloth into the cleaning solution and remove excess water.
Then work gently across the upper.
Pay extra attention to:
- toe box
- sides of the shoe
- heel area
- tongue
- areas where sweat and dirt accumulate
Do not aggressively scrub mesh or knitted materials. A softer brush is preferable for delicate uppers.
Adidas gives similar general running-shoe guidance, recommending soft-bristle tools for fabric and mesh rather than hard scrubbing.
Step 5: Clean the CloudTec® Outsole
The outsole often collects the most dirt.
Use a soft or medium brush to work around the grooves and openings.
For small stones:
- Let mud dry.
- Brush away loose material.
- Remove trapped debris carefully.
- Wipe the area with a damp cloth.
Avoid using sharp tools aggressively against the shoe.
Step 6: Wipe Away Soap
After cleaning, use a clean damp cloth to remove visible soap residue.
You want the shoe clean, not saturated.
Do not hold the entire shoe under high-pressure water.
Step 7: Clean the Laces Separately
Place the laces in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent.
Gently rub them between your fingers or with a soft brush.
Rinse and leave them to air dry.
Step 8: Dry the Shoes Correctly
This is one of the most important parts of the process.
Stuff the shoes loosely with paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.
Then place them somewhere:
- dry
- shaded
- well ventilated
- away from direct heat
On specifically recommends air drying at room temperature and warns against radiators and other direct heat sources.
Can You Wash On Cloud Shoes in a Washing Machine?
On does not recommend putting its running shoes in a washing machine.
This is an important correction to the original version of this article.
On’s official care guide says to keep running shoes away from the washing machine and tumble dryer. The brand explains that sustained heat and detergent exposure can damage seams, bonding and the overall structure of the shoe.
Some third-party cleaning guides describe cold, gentle machine washing for certain fabric models, but that advice conflicts with On’s own current guidance.
For On-branded shoes, the safer recommendation is to follow On’s manufacturer guidance and hand clean them.
What About the Washing Machine for the Laces?
That is different.
On says laces and insoles can be cleaned separately, with machine washing possible for components when they are machine-safe. Always check the care instructions for the specific component
How to Clean On Cloud Tennis Shoes
Cleaning On tennis shoes, including lifestyle or tennis-inspired models, depends on the upper material.
The basic process is still:
Dry brush → mild soap → gentle cleaning → wipe → air dry.
For smoother synthetic or leather-like uppers, use a damp microfiber cloth instead of aggressively brushing the surface.
For White On Tennis Shoes
White shoes show dirt quickly, so spot cleaning is useful.
Instead of waiting until the entire shoe is dirty:
- Remove loose dirt.
- Use mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Gently work on the stained area.
- Wipe away residue.
- Allow the shoe to air dry.
Adidas similarly recommends spot cleaning running shoes rather than leaving stains to work deeper into the material.
Avoid bleach unless the specific manufacturer care instructions explicitly allow it.
How to Clean On Cloud Roger Shoes
If you are searching specifically for how to clean On Cloud Roger shoes, first identify the material used on your particular model.
For smoother uppers:
- use a soft microfiber cloth
- use mild soap diluted with water
- work gently on scuffs
- avoid aggressive scrubbing
- remove soap residue with a clean damp cloth
- air dry naturally
Do not assume that every On model can be cleaned using exactly the same method. Materials and construction can differ between models.
How to Clean On Cloud Waterproof Shoes
Waterproof On models need more careful treatment.
The goal is to remove dirt without unnecessarily stressing the waterproof construction.
Use:
- a soft brush
- damp cloth
- lukewarm water
- mild soap where appropriate
Avoid:
- aggressive scrubbing
- bleach
- harsh solvents
- washing machine cycles
- tumble dryers
- radiators
- direct high heat
For a more detailed model-specific guide, see our how to clean On Cloud waterproof shoes.
How to Remove Mud From On Cloud Shoes
Mud is easier to clean when it is dry.
If your On shoes come back from a muddy run:
Don’t immediately soak them.
Instead:
- Let the mud dry.
- Tap the soles together.
- Brush off the larger pieces.
- Use a soft brush around the upper.
- Clean remaining marks with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Wipe away residue.
- Air dry.
This approach is consistent with On’s recommendation to remove excess dirt before hand cleaning.
How to Remove Odor From On Cloud Shoes
Cleaning the outside will not always solve shoe odor.
Sweat and moisture can accumulate around the insoles and inside the shoe.
Try this routine:
- Remove the insoles after sweaty sessions.
- Let the shoes air out.
- Clean the insoles separately.
- Wash the laces.
- Allow everything to dry completely before wearing again.
- Avoid storing damp shoes in a closed gym bag.
A small amount of baking soda can also be used as an odor-control option after the shoes are dry. On includes baking soda among its suggested cleaning supplies.
Should You Spray Perfume Inside On Cloud Shoes?
It is better to deal with the moisture and odor source rather than simply covering it with fragrance.
Dry the shoes first, then clean the insoles and allow the interior to air out.
How Often Should You Clean On Cloud Shoes?
There is no single cleaning schedule that works for every runner.
It depends on:
- how often you wear them
- running surface
- weather
- amount of mud or dust
- sweating
- whether they are used for running or everyday wear
For normal use, a quick dry brush or wipe after particularly dirty outings can reduce the need for deep cleaning.
A deeper clean makes sense when you notice:
- visible dirt
- dried mud
- sweat buildup
- unpleasant odor
- stains
- debris trapped around the outsole
On also recommends avoiding over-washing and using gentler cleaning methods.
On Cloud Cleaning: What to Do and What to Avoid
| Do | Avoid |
| Remove loose dirt first | Aggressive dry scrubbing |
| Use mild detergent | Bleach and harsh chemicals |
| Use lukewarm water | Very hot water |
| Use a soft brush | Hard brushing on mesh |
| Remove laces and insoles | Leaving damp insoles inside |
| Air dry at room temperature | Tumble drying |
| Keep shoes away from radiators | Direct heat |
| Clean stains early | Letting heavy dirt build up |
The manufacturer guidance from On is especially clear about avoiding washing machines and tumble dryers.
A 10-Minute On Cloud Cleaning Routine
If your shoes only have light dirt, you don’t need to perform a full deep clean every time.
Quick routine
Minute 1–2: Remove laces and insoles.
Minute 3–4: Brush away dry dirt.
Minute 5–7: Use mild soap and lukewarm water on visible stains.
Minute 8: Wipe away residue.
Minute 9–10: Stuff with paper towels and place somewhere ventilated to dry.
This is particularly useful after regular walking or road running when the shoes are dirty but not heavily soiled.
What About the White CloudTec® Sole?
The white midsole and CloudTec® areas can make dirt particularly noticeable.
Use a soft brush and mild cleaning solution first.
For stubborn marks, work gradually rather than immediately reaching for a strong chemical cleaner.
A dedicated shoe-cleaning brush can help with rubber and other durable areas, but the brush should be appropriate for the material you are cleaning.
For example, the supplied Jason Markk Essential Kit includes a brush designed for more durable areas such as rubber, plastic and midsoles.
Cleaning Your Shoes Without Overdoing It
One useful point from On’s own guidance is that shoe cleaning is about maintenance, not making the shoes look brand new after every run.
A simple routine works well:
After a dirty run:
Brush off loose dirt.
After muddy conditions:
Let mud dry, then remove it before hand cleaning.
After sweaty use:
Air out the shoes and remove the insoles when possible.
When visibly dirty:
Use mild soap and lukewarm water.
After cleaning:
Air dry at room temperature.
This approach is also broadly consistent with footwear-care guidance from Adidas, which recommends removing excess dirt, using mild cleaning solutions and drying shoes at room temperature.
Questions Runners Commonly Ask
Can I put my On Clouds in the washer?
The manufacturer’s current guidance says no for its running shoes. On recommends hand cleaning instead and warns against washing machines and tumble dryers.
How do I clean white On Clouds without ruining them?
Start with dry brushing, then use mild detergent and lukewarm water. Use a soft brush or cloth and avoid bleach, harsh chemicals and aggressive scrubbing.
How do I get mud out of the CloudTec pods?
Let the mud dry first, tap off the loose material, then use a soft brush to work around the pods. Finish with a damp cloth and mild cleaning solution if needed.
Can I use baking soda?
Baking soda can be useful for odor control and, with water, for cleaning some durable areas. On includes baking soda in its cleaning supplies, but avoid aggressive scrubbing on delicate uppers.
How long do On Cloud shoes take to dry?
Drying time depends on how wet the shoes became, airflow and room conditions. Allow them to dry completely before wearing them again rather than relying on a fixed number of hours.
People Also Ask
How do you clean On Cloud shoes?
Remove the laces and insoles, brush away loose dirt, gently clean the shoe with mild detergent and lukewarm water, wipe away residue and air dry at room temperature.
Can On Cloud shoes be washed?
On’s current guidance recommends hand cleaning rather than washing them in a washing machine.
Can you put On Cloud shoes in the washing machine?
On advises against it. The brand also advises against tumble drying.
Can you wash On Cloud tennis shoes?
You can clean them, but the method should match the material of the particular model. Gentle hand cleaning is the safer general approach.
How do you clean On Cloud shoes without a washing machine?
Use a soft brush, mild detergent, lukewarm water, a cloth and paper towels. Clean by hand and let the shoes air dry.
How do you clean On Cloud shoes that smell?
Remove and clean the insoles, air out the shoes, clean the laces and make sure everything is completely dry before wearing them again.
When Should You Replace Your On Cloud Shoes?
Cleaning can improve the appearance of a shoe, but it cannot restore worn cushioning, damaged materials or worn traction.
Look at the actual condition of the shoes.
Replacement may be worth considering when you notice:
- substantially worn outsole traction
- damaged upper material
- structural damage
- persistent loss of cushioning
- the shoe no longer feels secure
- visible deterioration that affects how you use the shoe
Avoid using a fixed mileage number as the only replacement rule. Running style, surface, frequency of use, body weight, model and shoe construction can all affect wear.
How We Evaluate Footwear
At UrbanStyleFootwear, our product evaluations combine manufacturer specifications, verified retailer and Amazon listing data, customer feedback, review patterns, and footwear-specific research. We assess shoes across factors such as comfort, fit, cushioning, support, materials, durability, traction, design, and overall value, using multiple sources to provide balanced, practical, and buyer-focused recommendations.
For more information, see our shoe testing and evaluation methodology.
Make Your Shoe-Cleaning Routine Easier
🧼 What’s Your On Cloud Cleaning Problem?
Choose the problem you have and get the quickest cleaning approach.
Final Takeaway
The safest general approach for how to clean On Cloud running shoes and tennis shoes is straightforward: remove loose dirt, take out the laces and insoles, clean gently with mild soap and lukewarm water, wipe away residue, and let the shoes air dry.
The most important update is the washing-machine question. On’s current official guidance says not to put its running shoes in a washing machine or tumble dryer.
For everyday maintenance, you usually do not need an aggressive deep clean. A quick dry brush after dirty outings, regular airing, and occasional gentle hand cleaning can help keep your shoes cleaner without exposing the materials to unnecessary heat or harsh chemicals.
If you want a broader routine, read our guide to cleaning and maintaining shoes for longer.
