Dance shoes are an essential part of any dancer’s toolkit, and taking good care of them helps ensure they last longer and perform well. From pointe shoes to jazz and tap, each type of shoe has its own care needs. With a few simple routines and some helpful tips, you can keep your dance shoes in great shape for as long as possible!
Here’s our guide to caring for your dance shoes, plus some expert recommendations from The Dance Shoppe team.
1. Pointe Shoes: The Art of Proper Care
Pointe shoes are delicate yet durable, designed to provide dancers with the support they need on stage and in the studio. Proper care for pointe shoes can extend their lifespan, keeping you on your toes with confidence.
- Air Them Out After Each Use: Sweat and moisture can wear out pointe shoes quickly. After each class, take your shoes out of your bag to air dry. This helps prevent odor and keeps the inner materials in good condition.
- Rotate Pairs if Possible: If you’re a serious dancer, alternating between two pairs can prevent overuse and give each pair time to dry out and “recover” between uses.
- Use Toe Pads Sparingly: Too much padding can stretch the shoe unnecessarily. Use just enough padding for comfort without overcrowding the fit.
We carry a range of pointe shoe accessories and drying inserts at The Dance Shoppe, perfect for extending the life of these special shoes.
2. Ballet Slippers: Keeping Them Clean and Fresh
Ballet slippers are the classic go-to shoe for many dancers, especially beginners. While they’re more durable than pointe shoes, they still need a bit of TLC to stay in top shape.
- Hand Wash Fabric Slippers: Fabric slippers can be hand-washed in cool water with mild detergent. After washing, air-dry them completely to prevent shrinking or damage.
- Spot Clean Leather Slippers: For leather ballet slippers, try spot cleaning with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking them, as water can damage the leather.
- Store Properly: Keep your ballet slippers in a breathable bag rather than a tightly-sealed container to avoid moisture buildup.
If you’re not sure which cleaning method to use, bring your shoes by The Dance Shoppe, and we’ll help guide you based on the material.
3. Jazz Shoes: Maintaining Flexibility and Shape
Jazz shoes are known for their flexibility, allowing dancers to move freely. But over time, these shoes can lose their shape if not cared for properly.
- Avoid Excessive Heat: While it may be tempting to toss them in the dryer, avoid exposing jazz shoes to heat, as it can warp the materials.
- Use a Damp Cloth for Cleaning: For light marks, a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap works well. Leather conditioners can also help keep leather jazz shoes soft and flexible.
- Store Flat: Jazz shoes can lose shape if crushed, so store them flat to maintain their structure.
Jazz shoes at The Dance Shoppe are made from quality materials, but regular care ensures they stay comfortable and performance-ready!
4. Tap Shoes: Preserving That Perfect Sound
Tap shoes are all about the sound, so keeping the taps in good shape is key to a great performance. Here’s how to maintain that clean, crisp sound:
- Tighten Screws Regularly: Check the screws on the taps periodically and tighten them as needed to prevent wobbling or clanking.
- Avoid Wet Surfaces: Moisture can damage both the metal taps and the shoe material. Keep them away from water and always store them in a dry place.
- Polish the Taps: For a clean sound, wipe the taps with a dry cloth and polish them occasionally to remove scuffs or debris.
If your tap shoes need a little extra love, bring them into The Dance Shoppe for a checkup! We can help with advice and even make small adjustments if necessary.
5. Dance Sneakers: Durability and Comfort Care
Dance sneakers are a versatile option for hip-hop, jazz, and modern styles, combining support with flexibility. These shoes can take a lot of wear, so here’s how to keep them looking fresh.
- Brush Off Dirt: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or dust after each wear, which helps maintain the shoe’s appearance.
- Spot Clean or Hand Wash: Many dance sneakers can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and a damp cloth. For more thorough cleaning, you may hand wash the fabric areas, but avoid soaking them to protect the soles.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Excessive heat or sunlight can weaken the material, so keep them in a cool spot out of direct sunlight.
We have several great options for dance sneakers at The Dance Shoppe, designed to last with proper care.
6. General Tips for All Dance Shoes
A few additional care tips apply to all types of dance shoes and can make a big difference in extending their life:
- Avoid Street Wear: Dance shoes are meant for studio and stage only. Wearing them outside can damage them, affecting both durability and cleanliness.
- Rotate Shoes When Possible: If you take multiple classes in one day, consider rotating between shoes or having separate pairs for different styles.
- Keep Shoes in a Breathable Bag: Dance shoes need ventilation to stay fresh. A breathable bag helps avoid moisture buildup that can weaken materials and cause odors.
At The Dance Shoppe, we’re here to help you find the best care products for each type of shoe, whether it’s a bag, polish, or a new pair of inserts. If you have any questions, just ask—we’re happy to help!
Taking care of your dance shoes doesn’t have to be complicated, but a little extra effort goes a long way. Swing by The Dance Shoppe for any supplies you need or just to chat with our team about keeping your shoes performance-ready. Here’s to many more steps, spins, and jumps in shoes that support every dance move!