Bowling shoes can be tricky to keep in good condition. Not only do they get scuffed and dirty from the bowling lanes, but also they need special care when cleaned.
Many people are unaware of what it takes to properly clean their bowling shoes, leading them to make mistakes that damage them over time.
In this article, we’ll cover some common mistakes you should avoid while cleaning your bowling shoes so you can enjoy them for years to come!
The first mistake is using a regular cleaner on your bowling shoes. Regular shoe polish or leather cleaners contain harsh chemicals which can strip away the protective coating and dry out the material prematurely.
Instead, look for specialized products designed specifically for use with bowling shoes which will help maintain their original finish without damaging them.
Another mistake many bowlers make is using too much cleaner or scrubbing too hard when wiping down the soles of their shoes.
Over-cleaning can actually cause more dirt and grime to accumulate on the surface because it removes the protective layer of wax used by manufacturers when creating these specialty items.
To avoid this, always use gentle strokes and only apply as much cleaner as needed to remove any excess dirt or oil buildup on the soles of your shoes.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to keep your bowling shoes looking great game after game!
Keep reading our article to learn more about how you can prevent common mistakes while cleaning your beloved kicks.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Cleaning Bowling Shoes
Striking the pins with a bowling ball is an exhilarating experience. As they knock down, the pins create a raucous crashing sound that reverberates through the lanes and into your bones.
It’s also essential to take care of your ball maintenance in order to keep it performing optimally. This includes making sure you clean your bowling shoes on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, many bowlers make common mistakes when cleaning their shoes which can lead to unexpected results.
The first mistake one should avoid while cleaning bowling shoes is using too much water or cleaner.
Excess moisture can cause damage to leather and synthetic surfaces as well as leave behind spots and streaks. Stick to mild soapslike dishwashing liquid diluted in warm water for best results and make sure not to soak the shoe but rather gently scrub it until all dirt has been removed.
Additionally, be careful not use aggressive cleaners or solvents since these could easily ruin the material of the shoe itself.
Instead, purchase specialized products designed specifically for bowling shoes from online retailers or sporting goods stores – such products are usually formulated for optimal protection against wear and tear during playtime. With this in mind, proceed cautiously when cleaning your bowling shoes!
Not Cleaning The Shoes Regularly
One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning their bowling shoes is not doing it regularly.
This can lead to a build-up of dirt and grime on the surface, which can cause permanent damage to the material.
Not only that, but this lack of regular maintenance will also eventually have an effect on one’s game performance. Therefore, it’s important to clean them at least once every few weeks.
It’s also important to use proper cleaning products for your specific type of bowling shoe material.
Different materials require different types of cleaners, so be sure to read labels carefully before using any product on your shoes.
Using improper cleaning products could cause permanent damage or discoloration and should be avoided at all costs.
Using Improper Cleaning Products
Using improper cleaning products on bowling shoes is like attempting to clean a delicate piece of art with a steamroller.
It’s important to be aware of the different cleaning methods and materials that are suitable for use on your shoes in order to keep them looking new for as long as possible.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, such as bleach or ammonia
Don’t scrub hard or you may damage the leather/suede material
Use only water-based solutions when applying cleaner onto your shoe surface
Keep away from harsh detergents which will strip away protective oils from the shoe material
Improperly cleaned shoes can lead to scuffs, fading, and discoloration – not just alterations in appearance, but also potential effects on performance.
Understanding what types of substances work best with certain materials allows us to avoid these consequences and keep our shoes in top condition.
With care and attention we can ensure our feet remain well-protected while bowling. Transitioning into the next section, it’s important to pay close attention when choosing any type of detergent used during the cleaning process.
Using Harsh Detergents
Moreover, using harsh detergents may be one of the more common mistakes.
Harsh detergents can damage the delicate material that covers bowling shoes and cause discoloration, cracking, or even holes in some cases.
It is best to avoid bleach-based cleaning products such as chlorine-based agents since they are known to break down synthetic materials over time.
Instead, use a mild detergent specifically designed for leather or canvas in order to ensure that your bowling shoes stay clean without risking any damage. Even then, it is important to spot test on an inconspicuous area before applying the cleaner all over the shoe.
Furthermore, walking outside with bowling shoes still wet from cleaning should be avoided at all costs.
Since moisture can weaken glue seams and other areas holding parts together, this could potentially lead to tearing apart of certain components making up the shoes.
In addition, dampness can also attract dirt which would make them dirty quicker than usual; hence why it’s essential to always let them dry properly after each cleaning session before exposing them to outdoor elements again.
Walking Outside In Bowling Shoes
When walking outside in bowling shoes, it’s important to remember that they can be slippery and easily damaged.
To avoid this, one should make sure the soles are dry before stepping onto any surface other than the lanes.
Additionally, wear the appropriate size of shoe for your foot so you have good footing on whatever terrain you’re crossing. This will help reduce slipping or tripping hazards.
It is also important to know when not to wear them at all; take off your bowling shoes if you plan on doing activities such as hiking or running.
If these activities are performed while wearing bowling shoes, there is a higher risk of damaging them beyond repair due to their lightweight materials and thin sole construction. It’s best to stick with regular sneakers for those types of activities instead!
Conclusion
When it comes to cleaning bowling shoes, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Not taking the time to regularly clean your shoes can lead to a build-up of dirt and grime, which can be hard to remove over time.
Furthermore, using improper or harsh detergents can damage the material of the shoe and reduce its lifespan.
For example, I once had a pair of bowling shoes that were in great condition until one day I decided to wash them with bleach without realizing how harmful this could be.
The next time I went bowling, my feet felt uncomfortable as soon as I put on the shoes because they had been irreparably damaged by the bleach!
This is why it’s so important to use proper cleaning products when cleaning bowling shoes; using those specifically designed for leather materials will help keep your shoes looking good and feeling comfortable for much longer.
Finally, even if you take all the necessary steps to properly care for your shoes, walking outside in them should still be avoided.
Doing this exposes them not only to dirt and moisture but also possible scuffs from rough surfaces like gravel or concrete. Taking these precautions will ensure that you get more out of your investment in quality bowling shoes!
