How to clean white New Balance mesh sneakers
Updated October 29, 2026
Many New Balance sneakers mix mesh with suede or leather overlays. That changes the job: mesh can take a light clean, but suede doesn’t like water. Here’s how to clean the mesh and protect the rest.
Step by step
Check the materials
Find the suede or nubuck panels. Those get a dry suede brush only, not spray.
Test a hidden spot
Try a small mist on the inside of the tongue first.
Dry-brush everything
Loose dirt off the mesh, and a dry suede brush on the suede.
Mist the mesh panels only
Two or three fine sprays at a time, keeping clear of suede edges.
Brush, then wipe
Soft circles on the mesh, then a clean microfiber cloth.
Air-dry for a full day
Room temperature, stuffed with paper, away from heat and sun.
Why suede needs a different approach
Water can darken suede and stiffen the nap. Keep the mist on mesh, and use a dry suede brush on suede panels.
Avoiding yellow lines
Yellow rings usually come from leftover cleaner or hard-water minerals drying on white fabric. Use only a little cleaner, wipe it off well, and dry indoors.
CLAIR is a gentle spray cleaner, soft brush and microfiber towel for everyday sneakers. Spray, brush, wipe: five minutes a pair.
See the CLAIR kit →Common questions
New Balance advises against it: many of its materials shouldn’t be fully submerged or heated. Clean them by hand.