How to Clean Allbirds Cruiser Coastal Shoes
By Allbirds | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the best way to wash your Allbirds Cruiser Coastal shoes, remove stains, and care for the gum sole. Step-by-step cleaning guide for both men's and women's styles.
Quick Answer
To clean Allbirds Cruiser Coastal shoes, spot clean with mild soap and water, then air dry. Avoid machine washing to preserve the lightweight build and gum sole.
Why Hand Cleaning Works Best
The Cruiser Coastal's lightweight construction and supple softness mean it's not designed for a washing machine. Machine washing can loosen the sole glue or distort the shape. Hand cleaning keeps the shoe intact and extends its life.
The gum sole is also sensitive to harsh detergents and heat. Stick to cold water and mild soap to avoid discoloration or cracking.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Prepare Your Cleaning Kit: Gather a soft-bristled brush, a bowl of cold water, a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap, and a clean microfiber cloth. Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or hot water. Using hot water can warp the shoe and damage the gum sole.
- Remove Loose Dirt: Gently brush the entire shoe surface with the soft brush to dislodge any dirt or debris. Pay extra attention to the mesh areas and the gum sole's tread. Brushing before washing prevents dirt from rubbing into the fabric during cleaning.
- Spot Clean Stains: Dip the cloth into the soapy water (don't soak it) and gently dab or rub stained areas. For tougher spots, use the brush with light pressure. Avoid scrubbing the same spot for more than 10 seconds to prevent fraying. Over-scrubbing can damage the shoe's soft texture and cause pilling.
- Rinse the Soap: Dampen a clean cloth with plain cold water and wipe away any soap residue from the shoe. Repeat until no suds remain. Residue can attract dirt and cause yellowing. Leaving soap on the shoe can lead to discoloration over time.
- Air Dry Completely: Stuff the shoes with dry paper towels to help them hold their shape, then place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Drying typically takes 12–24 hours. Never use a dryer or heater — heat can shrink the fabric and crack the gum sole.
Products Mentioned
- Men's Cruiser Coastal - Light Anthracite (Medium Gum Sole): Inspired by a classic court style, this signature shoe delivers the right balance of style and comfort. Its lightweight build and supple softness make this your new pick for life on the go. The lightweight build means aggressive cleaning methods can damage the materials, so gentle hand cleaning is essential.
Men's Cruiser Coastal - Light Anthracite (Medium Gum Sole) - Women's Cruiser Coastal - Natural White (Medium Gum Sole): Inspired by a classic court style, this signature shoe delivers the right balance of style and comfort. Its lightweight build and supple softness make this your new pick for life on the go. The supple softness requires a soft brush and mild soap to avoid wearing down the fabric or leaving residue.
Women's Cruiser Coastal - Natural White (Medium Gum Sole)
