How to clean your insoles
How to clean custom-made insoles
Why Cleaning Matters
Custom-made insoles work hard every day, absorbing pressure, managing moisture and supporting your feet through work, sport and everyday life. Keeping them clean is an important part of maintaining comfort, hygiene and performance. The good news is that cleaning custom insoles is simple, as long as it’s done gently and correctly.
Over time, sweat, skin cells and everyday dirt can build up on the surface of your insoles. This can cause odour, reduce comfort and shorten the lifespan of the materials. Regular cleaning helps keep insoles fresh, prevents bacteria build-up and ensures the materials continue to perform as intended.
General cleaning rules
Regardless of the top cover material, there are a few golden rules:
- Never machine wash or tumble dry custom insoles
- Do not soak them in water
- Avoid harsh detergents, bleach or alcohol-based cleaners
- Always air dry naturally, away from heat sources
Excess heat and moisture can damage EVA and Poron layers, reducing support and shock absorption.
Cleaning EVA top covers
EVA is durable and easy to maintain. To clean:
- Remove the insoles from your shoes
- Wipe the surface using a damp cloth or sponge
- Use a small amount of mild soap if needed
- Rinse the cloth (not the insole) and wipe again
- Allow to air dry completely before reinserting
EVA dries quickly and responds well to light, regular cleaning.
Cleaning Microfibre top covers
Microfibre offers excellent comfort and moisture control, but benefits from careful handling:
- Use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap
- Gently blot or wipe the surface
- Avoid excessive water
- Allow to dry naturally
For odour control, occasional light deodorising sprays designed for footwear can be used once the insoles are dry.
Cleaning Poron top covers
Poron is a high-performance cushioning material that requires a gentle approach:
- Lightly wipe with a damp cloth
- Use mild soap sparingly if necessary
- Avoid rubbing aggressively or soaking
- Air dry flat at room temperature
Poron should never be submerged, as this can affect its shock-absorbing properties.
Ongoing care tips
- Remove insoles regularly to allow shoes to air out
- Rotate footwear when possible
- Clean little and often rather than waiting until they are very dirty
With proper care, custom-made insoles with EVA, Poron or microfibre top covers will stay fresher, last longer and continue to support your feet comfortably every day. By following these simple guidelines, you can maximise their performance and hygiene for years, ensuring your feet receive the consistent comfort and protection they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear, helpful answers to common questions about our custom orthotics, fitting process, materials, benefits, care, warranties, and more to support your foot health and comfort.
How do I order bespoke custom-made orthotic insoles?
Simply purchase our Bespoke Insole Kit. We’ll guide you through taking accurate foot impressions at home, then hand-craft your custom insoles in our workshop and post them back to you.
Why do my feet hurt, and how can custom-made insoles help?
Your feet hurt due to poor biomechanics, flat arches, or uneven leg length, which strain muscles and joints. Our custom-made insoles correct alignment, support your unique foot shape, relieve pressure, and restore pain-free movement.
Why does shoe type matter when selecting and using bespoke custom insoles?
Shoe type matters because the right footwear complements your custom insoles. Stable, well-fitting shoes with enough depth ensure optimal support, proper function, and maximum relief from pain and misalignment.
When Should You Replace Your Custom-Made Insoles?
We recommend replacing your custom insoles every 12-18 months, or sooner if you notice reduced support, increased discomfort, or visible wear. Regular checks help maintain optimal comfort and foot health.
-
"Before, my feet hurt while hiking, gardening and caring for the horses and home. After seeing Mark Smith Orthotics, I can walk for longer distances without pain."
Val Bell
-
"Before the insoles, I had foot pain from a flat arch in my feet. Now, I am pain-free, and can move without lower back pain and can walk further and faster."
Tom Cartner
-
"Mark Smith Orthotics have now become indispensable by correcting my posture, straightening my hips, dramatically reducing pain during daily activities and exercise, and providing surprising relief that has transformed my workflow."
Mark Freeman
-
"I chose Mark Smith Orthotics over other options because of his highly professional approach, the time he dedicates, and the excellent quality of his work."
Tayyab Talu
-
"I have experienced a significant enhancement in daily comfort, a substantial reduction in pain, and unexpectedly straightforward ease of use, making these custom orthotics indispensable."
N. Douglas
-
"Before the insoles, I had foot pain from a flat arch in my feet and sometimes lower back pain because I also had one leg slightly longer than the other. Now, I am pain-free and can walk further and faster!"
Tom Carr
