Cleaning your UNC 6s (Air Jordan 6s in the University Blue colorway) properly is essential to maintain their iconic look and extend their lifespan. The key involves a systematic approach, focusing on the various materials found on the shoe, including leather, nubuck, and rubber.
Essential Steps for Cleaning UNC 6s
A thorough cleaning process involves several steps, from preparation to final drying, ensuring every part of your sneakers is addressed.
1. Preparation & Dry Cleaning
Before applying any cleaning solutions, remove loose dirt and debris.
- Remove Laces: Take out the laces to clean them separately and ensure full access to the shoe's tongue and interior.
- Brush Off Loose Dirt: Use a soft-bristle brush (or a dry shoe brush) to gently brush away any loose mud, dust, or dirt from the upper, midsole, and outsole. This prevents scratching and helps the cleaning solution work more effectively.
2. Cleaning the Uppers (General)
This stage focuses on the main body of the shoe. Based on cleaning techniques, you should work on the whole uppers with a suitable cleaning solution and brush.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a dedicated sneaker cleaning solution with water according to the product's instructions. A small bowl or container works well for this.
- Gentle Scrub for General Dirt: Dip a soft-bristle brush into the solution and gently scrub the entire upper. For UNC 6s, which often feature a mix of leather and nubuck/suede, be particularly gentle on the nubuck or suede sections to avoid saturating them or damaging the nap. Use circular motions to lift dirt.
- Wipe Down: Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe away the excess solution and dirt from the uppers. Rinse the towel frequently to ensure you're removing dirt, not just spreading it.
3. Tackling Deeper Stains
For more stubborn marks, you'll need a slightly more aggressive approach.
- Targeted Scrubbing: Once the general cleaning is done, move to your medium bristle brush to tackle some of those deeper stains. Apply a small amount of cleaning solution directly to the brush and gently scrub the specific stained areas. Be mindful of the material; for nubuck or suede, use light pressure and quick strokes to avoid overwetting.
- Repeat & Rinse: Repeat the scrubbing and wiping process until the stains are lifted. For very stubborn stains, you might need to let the solution sit for a minute before scrubbing again. Always follow up with a clean, damp towel to remove any residue.
4. Cleaning the Midsole and Outsole
The rubber components can handle a firmer scrub.
- Stiffer Brush: Use a medium-to-stiff bristle brush (or a dedicated sole brush) with your cleaning solution to scrub the midsole and outsole. The textured areas and grooves often trap a lot of dirt.
- Detailing: For hard-to-reach areas, use a detail brush or even an old toothbrush.
- Wipe Clean: Wipe the midsole and outsole thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth.
5. Laces and Drying
Don't forget the laces and proper drying techniques to prevent damage.
- Clean Laces: Place the laces in a small bowl with cleaning solution, gently agitate them, or scrub them lightly with a soft brush. Rinse them thoroughly under running water until all soap is gone.
- Air Dry: Stuff your cleaned UNC 6s with paper towels or a shoe tree to help them retain their shape. Allow them to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Drying can take several hours or even overnight. Avoid machine drying or using a hairdryer, as this can damage the materials.
- Re-lace: Once completely dry, re-lace your sneakers.
Recommended Tools & Materials
Here's a quick overview of what you'll need for an effective clean:
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sneaker Cleaning Kit | Comprehensive cleaning | Often includes solutions and various brushes. |
| Soft-Bristle Brush | General cleaning of uppers (especially delicate materials) | Essential for leather and synthetic fabrics. |
| Medium-Bristle Brush | Tackling deeper stains on uppers; general midsole cleaning | Reference specifically highlights its use for deeper stains on the uppers. |
| Stiff-Bristle Brush | Cleaning outsoles and tough midsole grime | Good for rubber sections. |
| Microfiber Towels | Wiping away dirt and excess solution | Highly absorbent and non-abrasive. |
| Sneaker Cleaning Solution | Breaks down dirt and grime | Choose a solution safe for various sneaker materials. |
| Small Bowl | Mixing cleaning solution | Convenient for dipping brushes. |
| Paper Towels/Shoe Tree | Maintaining shoe shape during drying | Prevents creasing and aids drying. |
Maintenance Tips for UNC 6s
- Regular Light Cleaning: Don't wait for heavy dirt to accumulate. A quick wipe-down after each wear can prevent deep stains.
- Protective Sprays: Consider using a water and stain repellent spray, especially on the nubuck or suede parts, to create a barrier against spills.
- Proper Storage: Store your UNC 6s in a cool, dry place, ideally in their original box or a shoe bag, to protect them from dust and sunlight.
By following these detailed steps and using the right tools, you can keep your UNC 6s looking fresh and vibrant, ready for their next outing.
