Waterproof shoes are built for real life—wet streets, muddy paths, surprise storms, daily commutes, and long days on your feet. But even the best waterproof shoes, including THEESE Flow State and THEESE Purpose, need proper care to protect their finish, longevity, and waterproof performance.
Many people accidentally damage their waterproof shoes while trying to protect them. Harsh soaps, aggressive scrubbing, wrong drying techniques, and the wrong products can break down waterproof membranes and ruin the clean, sleek look of THEESE.
This guide will show you how to safely clean, condition, protect, and store waterproof shoes without ever harming the finish—whether you own Royal Blue, Black, White, or Vintage White THEESE sneakers.
Why Proper Care Matters for Waterproof Shoes
Waterproof shoes aren’t just regular sneakers. They include:
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Waterproof membranes
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Durable finishes
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Protective coatings
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Special uppers
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Heat-bonded or sealed seams
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Non-absorbent materials
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Advanced outsoles
If you use the wrong cleaning products or the wrong method, you can:
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Strip the waterproof coating
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Weaken the seal
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Cause discoloration
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Crack the finish
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Damage the sleek color
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Reduce overall water resistance
THEESE shoes are designed to handle weather, terrain, mud, and water, but proper care increases their lifespan dramatically—especially if you wear them daily.
Step-by-Step Care Routine for THEESE Waterproof Shoes
1. Start with a Gentle Dry Brush
Before applying water:
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Remove dried mud with a soft brush
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Avoid metal brushes
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Do NOT scrape the finish with sharp objects
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Use a microfiber cloth for soft wiping
This keeps the waterproof membrane safe and reduces abrasion.
2. Use Mild, Non-Detergent Cleaners
Harsh detergents or bleach can strip waterproofing instantly.
Safe options include:
✔️ Mild soap
✔️ Specialized sneaker cleaner
✔️ PH-balanced leather or synthetic cleaner
✔️ Diluted neutral soap
Avoid:
✘ Bleach
✘ Laundry detergent
✘ Alcohol wipes
✘ Acetone
✘ Scrubbing sponges
For Royal Blue, Black, White, and Vintage White THEESE shoes, use a cleaner safe for colored synthetic/leather uppers.
3. Clean Using the “Minimal Water” Method
Too much water can seep into seams (even waterproof ones).
How to do it safely:
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Dip a soft cloth in soapy water
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Squeeze ALL water out
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Gently wipe the upper
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Use a separate cloth to remove soap
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Pat dry—don’t rub
This keeps the finish protected, especially for White and Vintage White.
4. Never Use Heat to Dry Your Waterproof Shoes
This is one of the biggest causes of finish damage.
Avoid:
✘ Hairdryers
✘ Direct sunlight
✘ Near heaters
✘ On radiators
Heat can:
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Warp the upper
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Crack synthetic finishes
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Weaken waterproof layers
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Make colors fade
Safe drying method:
✔️ Room temperature
✔️ Stuff with microfiber cloth or paper towels
✔️ Place in a ventilated spot
5. Apply a Water-Repellent Spray (THE SAFE KIND)
Not all sprays are safe.
Choose sprays labeled:
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Safe for synthetic uppers
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Safe for waterproof membranes
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Non-silicone heavy
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Breathable
Using the wrong spray can:
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Make THEESE shoes sticky
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Cause discoloration (especially White/Vintage White)
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Block breathability
Reapply every 3–4 weeks if you wear them daily.
6. Protect the Finish Based on Color
Royal Blue
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Clean with color-safe cleaner
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Avoid heavy scrubbing
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Use UV-protectant spray for color vibrancy
Black
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Easy to maintain
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Use gentle wiping to prevent streaks
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Avoid oily conditioners that cause shine buildup
White
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Use a non-yellowing cleaner
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Avoid bleach
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A protector spray is highly recommended
Vintage White
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Needs a mild cleaner designed for off-white tones
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Avoid chalky cleaning products
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Keep away from hard brushes
7. Store THEESE Properly
To protect both the waterproofing and the finish:
✔️ Store in a dry, cool place
✔️ Use a shoe tree if possible
✔️ Avoid humid closets
✔️ Keep away from direct sunlight
✔️ Add silica gel packs
Proper storage prevents mold, deformities, and discoloration—especially important for lighter colors.
Common Mistakes That Ruin Waterproof Shoes
Avoid these at all costs:
❌ Using bleach
❌ Putting them in the washing machine
❌ Over-scrubbing the upper
❌ Drying them with heat
❌ Storing them wet
❌ Applying oily conditioners
❌ Using fabric softener on laces
❌ Soaking the shoes fully in water
THEESE shoes are built to last—but these mistakes can reduce their lifespan.
Maintaining the Waterproof Seal in THEESE Shoes
THEESE Flow State and Purpose models use a performance waterproof design that depends on:
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A sealed upper
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Water-tight construction
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Hydrophobic materials
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Durable coating
To maintain the seal:
✔️ Keep the shoes clean
✔️ Avoid bending the toes excessively
✔️ Reapply repellent spray monthly
✔️ Clean mud promptly
✔️ Allow proper air drying
How Often Should You Care for THEESE Waterproof Shoes?
Daily wearers: Clean every 5–7 days
Light wearers: Clean every 2 weeks
After heavy rain/mud: Clean immediately
Reapply repellent: Every 3–4 weeks
Deep clean: Every 6 weeks
FAQs About Caring for Waterproof Shoes (THEESE Edition)
1. Can I wash my THEESE waterproof shoes in the washing machine?
No. Machine washing can damage the waterproof membrane and the finish.
2. What’s the safest way to clean White or Vintage White THEESE shoes?
Use a mild, non-bleach cleaner, a soft cloth, and minimal water.
3. Do THEESE waterproof shoes need re-proofing?
Yes—every 3–4 weeks if worn frequently.
4. Can heat damage waterproof shoes?
Absolutely. Heat cracks the finish, shrinks the upper, and weakens the waterproof seal.
5. What should I do if mud dries on the shoes?
Brush it off dry first, then do a light wipe. Never scrub wet mud aggressively.
6. Are household cleaners safe?
Most are not. Avoid bleach, ammonia, and alcohol-based products.
7. Does conditioning help waterproof sneakers?
Shoe conditioners are usually for leather. Use only membrane-safe sprays for THEESE.
8. Why do my shoes smell after getting wet?
Bacteria grows in trapped moisture. Air drying and proper cleaning prevents odor.
9. Can I use sneaker wipes on THEESE?
Yes—if the wipes are alcohol-free and safe for synthetic materials.
10. How do I maintain the colors on THEESE shoes?
Clean gently, avoid sunlight drying, and use UV-safe protection sprays.