How to Clean Sneakers for Resale on eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari: Expert Tips

Jan 25, 2024 | eBay Flipping | 1 comment

If you’re looking to resell sneakers on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari, it’s important to ensure that your shoes are in top-notch condition. One of the most crucial factors in reselling sneakers is making sure they look clean and well-maintained. In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips for cleaning sneakers to help you maximize your reselling profits.

First and foremost, it’s essential to invest in high-quality cleaning products specifically designed for sneakers. There are numerous brands that offer products such as sneaker cleaning solutions, brushes, and wipes that are designed to effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains from your sneakers without causing any damage to the materials.

Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s important to remove the laces from your sneakers and clean them separately. Soak the laces in warm, soapy water and gently scrub them to remove any dirt or stains. Once the laces are clean, set them aside to dry completely.

Next, use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the uppers of your sneakers with a small amount of the cleaning solution. Be sure to use a light touch to avoid damaging any delicate materials such as suede or mesh. For stubborn stains, you may need to apply a bit more pressure, but be cautious not to overdo it.

After cleaning the uppers, focus on the midsoles and outsoles of your sneakers. These areas tend to accumulate the most dirt and can be the most challenging to clean. Use a specialized sneaker cleaning brush or sponge to scrub away any dirt, paying close attention to the grooves and crevices in the outsoles.

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned your sneakers, it’s important to let them air dry completely before wearing or reselling them. Avoid using direct heat sources such as hairdryers, as they can cause damage to the materials and shape of the shoes.

In addition to cleaning the exterior of your sneakers, it’s also essential to ensure that the insoles are fresh and odor-free. You can sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit for a few hours to absorb any unwanted odors. Afterward, simply shake out the excess powder and your sneakers will smell as good as new.

Finally, once your sneakers are clean and dry, take high-quality, well-lit photos of them to showcase their condition to potential buyers. Clearly show all angles of the shoes, including the soles, insoles, and any areas with imperfections. Providing full disclosure of the sneakers’ condition will help you build trust with buyers and increase your chances of making a sale.

By following these sneaker cleaning tips, you can ensure that your shoes are in prime condition for reselling on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari. Clean, well-maintained sneakers are more likely to sell quickly and for a higher price, so investing time and effort into cleaning your sneakers is a crucial step in maximizing your reselling profits.