How to Make Old Sneakers Look New | Sneaker Care & Restoration Guide by KNOTTY

By Raghav Bhargava

How to Make Old Sneakers Look New | Sneaker Care & Restoration Guide by KNOTTY

👟 The Best Products and Techniques for Protecting and Making Old Sneakers Look New

Meta Title:
How to Make Old Sneakers Look New | Sneaker Care & Restoration Guide by KNOTTY

URL Handle:
how-to-make-old-sneakers-look-new

🧠 Why Sneaker Restoration Is a Must for Every Sneakerhead

No matter how rare or expensive your sneakers are, daily wear takes a toll — faded colors, dirty soles, creased uppers, and frayed laces can make even your favorite pair look tired.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need to throw them away. With the right cleaning, restoration, and care techniques, you can bring them back to life — and even make them look better than before.

This guide from KNOTTY walks you through the best products and techniques to revive your old sneakers, from cleaning and repainting to upgrading your laces and adding stylish accessories.

🧽 Step 1: Deep Clean Your Sneakers

The foundation of any restoration is a good cleaning routine. Here’s how to get your sneakers back to a “just unboxed” look.

What You’ll Need:

  • Soft brush or toothbrush – for scrubbing dirt off the surface and soles.

  • Mild sneaker cleaner or soap – avoid harsh detergents that ruin the fabric.

  • Microfiber cloth – to wipe down after cleaning.

How to Clean:

  1. Remove the laces and insoles.

  2. Mix warm water with a few drops of gentle soap.

  3. Dip your brush and scrub lightly in circular motions.

  4. Wipe off excess moisture with a clean cloth.

  5. Let them air dry indoors — never use direct sunlight or heat.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a stain remover pen for suede or nubuck shoes and a toothbrush for the outsole grooves.

If your laces are beyond saving, swap them out for a fresh pair:

🎨 Step 2: Repaint or Re-Dye Faded Sneakers

Color fading is one of the most common issues with older sneakers. A simple repaint or dyeing job can completely transform their appearance.

How to Repaint Leather or Synthetic Sneakers:

  1. Clean and dry the surface thoroughly.

  2. Use masking tape to protect the soles and edges.

  3. Apply acrylic leather paint in thin, even coats using a soft brush or sponge.

  4. Allow 24 hours for full drying between layers.

  5. Seal the paint with a clear finisher for long-lasting shine.

How to Restore Fabric or Knit Sneakers:

  • Use fabric dye or sneaker color sprays in your shoe’s original shade.

  • For canvas sneakers (like Vans or Converse), you can even tie-dye for a fresh twist.

🎨 Try pairing custom paint jobs with KNOTTY’s Gradient Laces Collection for a fully coordinated look.

🪡 Step 3: Replace Laces — The Simplest Transformation

New laces can make your sneakers look brand new instantly.
A well-chosen lace color can complement or contrast your sneaker design — and that small detail can make a huge difference.

✅ Best Lace Upgrades for Restoration:

💬 Customer Tip: “I swapped my old laces for KNOTTY’s reflective ropes — my sneakers looked new instantly, and the night glow is unreal!” — Riya Menon, Verified Buyer

🧴 Step 4: Protect and Maintain with Sneaker Care Products

Now that your sneakers look refreshed, protection is key. Here’s what to add to your care arsenal:

Must-Have Sneaker Protection Products:

  • Waterproof Spray: Keeps your sneakers safe from rain and stains.

  • Crease Shields: Maintains toe box shape for leather sneakers.

  • Odor-Eliminating Inserts: Keeps them smelling fresh.

  • Shoe Trees: Helps prevent wrinkles and maintain structure.

🔒 Pro Tip: Spray your sneakers with a protective coating right after cleaning or repainting to lock in freshness.

And don’t forget to complete your restoration with KNOTTY accessories:

📸 Step 5: Show Off Your Before & After

Once your sneakers are restored, document the transformation. Before-and-after photos not only highlight your work but also inspire other sneaker lovers to give their old pairs new life.

Tag @getknotty.in on Instagram with #KNOTTYRestoration to get featured and win exclusive care kits.

🧠 Expert Sneaker Maintenance Tips

  • Clean regularly: Don’t wait until they’re too dirty — frequent maintenance is easier.

  • Rotate your sneakers: Avoid wearing one pair daily to reduce creasing and odor.

  • Store smart: Keep them in a cool, dry place with silica packets.

  • Replace laces often: Fresh laces instantly rejuvenate your look.

👟 Final Thoughts: Old Sneakers, New Stories

Old sneakers don’t have to mean worn-out style. With the right care, laces, and accessories, you can extend their life — and make them stand out even more.

KNOTTY’s mission is to help sneaker lovers keep their kicks looking fresh, stylish, and uniquely theirs.
✨ Start your restoration today with KNOTTY’s premium laces and accessories.

Share: