The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Vegan Sneakers Without Damage
1. Caring for Your Sneakers: Extending Your Commitment
An unmaintained pair wears out quickly, loses its shape, ends up at the back of a closet… or worse, in the trash. However, extending the lifespan of a fashion item is the number one lever for reducing its carbon impact: each additional year of use prevents the production of a new product.
At the scale of iné, this means transforming care into an activist gesture: “Learning to do things differently, renewing knowledge. In search of an ever cleaner solution, it's innate.”
And since our Vibes are inspired by the 80s and 90s, we might as well guarantee them eternal youth… without wrinkles or cracks.
2. A Closer Look at Vegan Materials and Their Needs
2.1 Corn "Leather"
Made from non-food starch, it offers a soft grain and good resistance. Its Achilles' heel: heat. Prefer cold water and banish hair dryers and radiators.
2.2 Cactus (Nopal)
Flexible, naturally hydrophobic, it nevertheless fears strong alkaline agents. Use a neutral soap (mild pH) and a microfiber cloth.
2.3 Recycled Microfiber & PET Mesh
Very light and almost unalterable, it tends to trap dust. Regular brushing is sufficient, complemented by a monthly clear water cleaning.
2.4 The R-TPR Sole
Made from recycled rubber, it cleans like a classic sole: baking soda + soft brush.
3. The Four Declared Enemies
- Dust: it dulls colors and micro-scratches the surface.
- Stagnant moisture: a breeding ground for bacteria, odors, and mold.
- UV rays: responsible for premature yellowing.
- Abrasion: repeated rubbing, overly rough sponges.
Good news: all these threats can be neutralized with the routine below.
4. 100% Cruelty-Free Gear Checklist
- Soft brush with plant fibers (beech + sisal).
- Microfiber cloth (recycled if possible).
- Bowl of cold water + Marseille soap without animal fat.
- Water-based waterproofing spray, fluorocarbon-free.
- Old newspaper or FSC-certified wooden shoe trees for drying.
5. Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Dusting (After Each Wear)
Brush the upper and outsole in circular motions. 30 seconds is enough.
Step 2: Spot Cleaning
Dampen the area, apply neutral soap, gently rub with the microfiber cloth, rinse. Tip: For mesh, use pressing motions rather than sweeping motions to avoid pulling the fibers.
Step 3: Deep Cleaning (Monthly)
- Remove laces and insoles.
- Prepare a solution: 1 L of cold water + 1 tsp of mild soap.
- Dampen the sponge (never the shoe!) and clean by sections.
- Rinse with a barely damp cloth.
Step 4: Drying
Place newspaper inside, leave for 24 hours at room temperature, in the shade. Avoid any direct heat source.
Step 5: Protection
Spray the waterproofing spray (20 cm, fine mist). Repeat every 4 weeks or after a thorough cleaning.
6. Repair, Recycle: Extend the Life of Your Vibes
6.1 Replacing Laces & Insoles
A frayed lace doesn't have to end up in the trash: keep it for your bags, replace it with an organic cotton or recycled polyester version.
6.2 Sole Protectors & Partial Resole
Some PETA-Approved cobblers now offer non-animal recycled rubber sole protectors. A simple gesture that doubles the lifespan of the outsole.
6.3 Donation, Upcycling, Return to the Brand
iné is currently developing a take-back program to transform your old pairs into granules for new soles. Stay tuned!
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Washing Machine: Yes or No?
No. Even the "cold" cycle is too aggressive; the glue and internal reinforcements can come undone.
What to do about an oil stain?
Quickly absorb with Fuller's earth, let sit for 1 hour, vacuum, then dab with cold soapy water.
Waterproofing Spray: How Often?
Every 4 to 6 weeks depending on use, and always after a deep cleaning.
Which labels guarantee a 'clean' care product?
Look for the **Ecocert**, **Ecocert Cosmos Natural** logos, or the French label **Nature & Progrès**.
8. iné Vibes: The Proof by Example
Our Vibes collection represents five years of R&D: 90s retro design, flared running sole for cushioning, and 75% biomass (corn, agricultural waste, recycled cotton). Entirely manufactured in Europe, they avoid any animal-derived materials and minimize logistical distances.
Thanks to the GRS and the **PETA-Approved Vegan** label, every component is traceable, from fiber to zipper. Our care tips, which you are following here, are the same as those we provide in the Vibes box:
“A well-maintained sneaker is a sneaker that lives twice as long. Reduce, reuse, iné!” Audrey Delanoë, Founder of iné
9. Conclusion
Dust, clean, protect: three simple steps to keep your vegan sneakers looking bright and comfortable year after year. By extending their lifespan, you reduce their environmental impact and honor the spirit behind their creation.
Ready to take action?
Leave a comment