Knowing how to clean sneakers can make your favorite footwear last that much longer. Even if you own one of the best washing machines, we tend to be uneasy when it comes to cleaning sneakers. We worry that we could damage them in the process, particularly where the washing machine is involved. The trouble is, a damp cloth alone is not likely to cut it when removing stains from sneakers. From caked on dirt to mystery scuffs, all kinds of marks will appear here.