If you’re a sneakerhead like me or just someone who hates seeing their favorite kicks covered in grime, the Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner is a game-changer you need in your life.
This isn’t just another cleaning product—it’s a premium, eco-friendly solution that brings your shoes back to life without breaking a sweat. Whether it’s leather, suede, or canvas, this kit tackles dirt with ease and keeps your shoes looking fresh.
Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Let’s talk about why this is a must-have for your shoe-care routine.
My Experience With Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
I’ll never forget the day my pristine white Nike Air Max 1s took a dive into a muddy puddle.
My heart sank as I watched the dirt creep into every crevice. I thought they were done for.
Then, a friend recommended the Jason Markk Essential Kit, and I figured, why not?
At $16, it wasn’t a huge risk.
When it arrived, I was impressed by how compact and sleek it was—just a 4 oz. bottle of Deep Cleaning Solution and a sturdy Durables Cleaning Brush with a walnut wood handle.
It felt like a premium product right out of the box.
I set up my cleaning station on the kitchen counter: a bowl of warm water, a microfiber towel I had lying around, and the kit. The process was dead simple. I dipped the brush in water, added a few drops of the solution, and started scrubbing my sneakers in gentle circular motions.
The foam lathered up quickly, and I could see the dirt lifting off the leather and mesh. It was oddly satisfying, like watching a magic trick. The brush’s stiff bristles tackled the rubber midsoles without scratching, and within 20 minutes, my shoes looked almost brand new.
The laces, which I soaked separately in a mix of water and cleaner, came out spotless too.
What struck me most was how gentle the solution was. My Air Maxes have a mix of leather and mesh, and I was worried about damaging them. But the biodegradable formula, made with natural soaps like coconut and jojoba oils, didn’t strip the materials or leave any sticky residue.
The only downside? The soles weren’t quite as blindingly white as I’d hoped, but they were a solid 70% brighter. For a pair that looked like they’d been through a war zone, that was a win. I’ve since used it on my suede boots and canvas Vans, and it’s become my go-to for keeping my collection fresh.
Pros of Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
- Versatility Across Materials
You know how some cleaners are picky about what they can handle?
Not Jason Markk. This stuff works on pretty much everything—leather, suede, nubuck, canvas, mesh, you name it.
I’ve used it on my beat-up Converse, delicate suede Pumas, and even my kid’s cotton sneakers, and it performs like a champ every time.
The fact that it’s safe for such a wide range of materials means you don’t need a dozen different products cluttering your closet.
One kit, multiple shoes, no stress.
- Eco-Friendly and Safe Formula
I’m not a hardcore environmentalist, but I appreciate that Jason Markk is a Certified B Corp with a focus on sustainability. The Deep Cleaning Solution is 100% USDA Certified Biobased and EPA Safer Choice certified, which means it’s free of harsh chemicals, acids, or heavy metals.
It’s made with natural ingredients like coconut and jojoba oils, so I don’t have to worry about toxic fumes or damaging my shoes. Plus, it’s biodegradable, so I feel good about not harming the planet while keeping my kicks clean.
- Easy to Use, Even for Beginners
If you’re like me and not exactly a pro at cleaning shoes, this kit makes it foolproof. You just need a bowl of water, the brush, and a few drops of the solution. No complicated mixing ratios or special tools required.
The instructions are clear, and the process is so straightforward that I had my 12-year-old nephew cleaning his sneakers like a pro in no time. The foam lathers up nicely, and you can see the dirt lift away as you scrub. It’s satisfying and doesn’t feel like a chore.
- Long-Lasting Value
A little of this cleaner goes a long way. The 4 oz. bottle in the Essential Kit can clean up to 100 pairs of shoes, according to Jason Markk. I’ve cleaned about 10 pairs so far, and I’ve barely made a dent in the bottle.
You only need 4-5 drops per shoe, which makes it super cost-effective. At $16 for the kit, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. Compare that to replacing a pair of $100 sneakers, and it’s a no-brainer.
- Premium Brush Quality
The Durables Cleaning Brush is a standout. The walnut wood handle feels luxurious, and the stiff synthetic bristles are tough enough to scrub away stubborn dirt on midsoles and rubber without being too harsh.
I’ve used it on everything from my hiking boots to my leather dress shoes, and it holds up beautifully. After dozens of uses, the bristles are still intact, and the handle hasn’t splintered or worn out. It’s a small detail, but it makes the cleaning process feel like a ritual rather than a task.
Not-So-Good Parts of Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
- Doesn’t Fully Restore White Soles
Let’s be real: if you’re chasing that out-of-the-box, ultra-bright white sole look, Jason Markk might leave you wanting a bit more.
It does a solid job—my soles went from dingy to noticeably cleaner—but they didn’t hit that blinding white I was hoping for.
I’d say it gets you about 70-80% of the way there.
For really stubborn yellowing or deep stains, you might need a specialized sole cleaner or multiple sessions.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth knowing if you’re obsessive about pristine soles.
- Separate Accessories Can Add Up
The Essential Kit is great, but it only includes the Deep Cleaning Solution and the Durables Brush. If you want the microfiber towel or the Delicates Cleaning Brush for suede and other sensitive materials, you’ll need to buy those separately.
The towel isn’t a huge expense, but the Delicates Brush is another $10, and the Quick Wipes or Repel Spray add even more to the cost. If you’re cleaning a variety of shoes, you might end up spending more than you planned to get the full Jason Markk experience.
- Suede Requires Extra Care
While the cleaner is safe for suede, you have to be extra cautious. Dyed suede can bleed when it gets wet, so you need to test it in a small area first. I learned this the hard way when I got a little too enthusiastic with my suede boots and noticed a slight color shift.
The Delicates Brush is recommended for suede, but it’s not included in the Essential Kit. If you’re mainly cleaning suede, you might need to invest in the Suede Cleaning Kit, which feels like an extra step for suede lovers.
- Packaging Could Be Sturdier
I’ve heard some folks complain about the bottle’s lid being flimsy. While I haven’t had this issue myself, I can see how the plastic cap might not hold up if you’re rough with it.
After a few uses, I noticed the threads on the cap felt a bit loose, which could be a problem if you’re tossing the bottle in a bag for travel. Transferring the solution to a sturdier container might be a good idea if you’re on the go a lot.
Maintenance Tips for Using Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
- Prep Your Shoes Properly
Before you start scrubbing, take a minute to prep your shoes. Remove the laces and insoles—they can be cleaned separately in a bowl with a few drops of the Deep Cleaning Solution.
Use a dry brush to knock off loose dirt or debris. This keeps the dirt from getting ground into the material when you start cleaning. I like to stuff my shoes with newspaper or a towel to help them hold their shape and absorb moisture during the process. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference.
- Use the Right Brush for the Job
The Durables Cleaning Brush in the Essential Kit is great for tough materials like leather, rubber, and midsoles, but if you’re cleaning suede, nubuck, or delicate knits, get the Delicates Cleaning Brush.
Its soft hog hair bristles are gentle enough to avoid damage. I made the mistake of using the Durables Brush on suede once, and it roughed up the nap a bit. Stick to the right tool, and you’ll keep your shoes in top shape. For canvas shoes like Vans, scrub in circular motions to avoid water stains.
- Don’t Overdo the Water
One thing I learned early on is that less water is better. You only need to dip the brush in water to create a lather—don’t soak the shoe. Too much water can oversaturate materials like suede or cause dyed colors to bleed.
If you’re using the Ready-to-Use Foam Cleaner, you don’t need water at all, which is a lifesaver for quick cleanups. After scrubbing, use a microfiber towel to blot away excess moisture and prevent watermarks.
- Air Dry the Right Way
Never, and I mean never, toss your shoes in the dryer or leave them in direct sunlight to dry. Heat can warp the shape or crack the materials, and sunlight can fade darker colors. Instead, stuff your shoes with newspaper or a towel to absorb moisture and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.
I usually leave mine near an open window for a day. This keeps them looking fresh and prevents any damage.
- Protect with Repel Spray
Once your shoes are clean, keep them that way with Jason Markk’s Repel Spray. I apply a light coat after every cleaning session, and it creates a breathable barrier that repels water and stains. It’s especially handy for suede and canvas, which are prone to soaking up dirt.
Just spray evenly from about 6 inches away, let it dry for 24 hours, and you’re good to go. I’ve noticed my shoes stay cleaner longer since I started using it.
- Clean Regularly for Best Results
Don’t wait until your shoes are caked in mud to break out the kit. Regular cleaning—say, once a month or after a particularly messy day—keeps dirt from embedding too deeply. I set aside a Sunday afternoon every few weeks to give my favorite pairs a quick scrub.
It takes less time than a deep clean and keeps them looking sharp. For quick touch-ups, Jason Markk’s Quick Wipes are a lifesaver, though they’re not ideal for suede or nubuck.
Comparison of Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner With Other Brands
I’ve scrubbed my sneakers, boots, and casual kicks with Jason Markk’s Essential Kit, but how does it hold up against Reshoevn8r, Crep Protect’s Cure Cleaning Kit, and Pink Miracle? I’ve tested each one to see which delivers the cleanest kicks.
Below, I compare Jason Markk head-to-head with each competitor, breaking down versatility, ease of use, effectiveness, value, and eco-friendliness under specific product matchups. Let’s see which cleaner comes out on top for you and your shoes.
Jason Markk Vs. Reshoevn8r
- Versatility Across Materials: Jason Markk’s Deep Cleaning Solution is a jack-of-all-trades, tackling leather, suede, canvas, and mesh with ease. I used it on my leather Jordans and suede Pumas, and it didn’t disappoint. The biodegradable formula with coconut and jojoba oils keeps things gentle. Reshoevn8r’s Premium Shoe Cleaning Solution is great for leather and rubber—I revived a pair of scuffed Nike Blazers—but it’s harsher on suede, where I noticed slight color fading. Jason Markk wins for its broader material compatibility.
- Ease of Use: With Jason Markk, you dip the Durables Brush in water, add a few drops of solution, scrub, and wipe. My Adidas Ultraboosts were sparkling in 20 minutes, no hassle. Reshoevn8r’s kit includes three brushes (soft, medium, stiff), which is handy, but the solution needs more rinsing to avoid residue, adding time. Jason Markk’s straightforward process feels more intuitive for beginners.
- Effectiveness on Stains: Jason Markk lifted dirt and grass stains from my Air Max 1s, getting soles about 70% brighter. It’s solid across materials. Reshoevn8r tackled a coffee spill on my Jordans better, but it left residue on canvas. For tough leather stains, Reshoevn8r has a slight edge, but Jason Markk’s consistency across shoes makes it more reliable overall.
- Value for Money: At $16, Jason Markk’s 4 oz. bottle and brush clean up to 100 pairs. I’ve cleaned 10 pairs and barely used a quarter of it. Reshoevn8r’s $20 kit includes three brushes, but the solution depletes faster. Jason Markk offers better longevity for the price.
- Eco-Friendliness and Brand Ethos: Jason Markk’s B Corp status and biodegradable, EPA Safer Choice-certified formula make it a green choice. Reshoevn8r doesn’t focus on sustainability, and its stronger chemicals feel less eco-conscious. Jason Markk’s ethical edge seals the deal.
Jason Markk Vs. Crep Protect’s Cure Cleaning Kit
- Versatility Across Materials: Jason Markk handles leather, suede, canvas, and more without breaking a sweat. I cleaned my canvas Vans and suede boots with no issues. Crep Protect’s Cure Kit works on similar materials, but its thinner foam struggled with my heavily soiled Converse. Jason Markk’s formula feels more robust across the board.
- Ease of Use: Jason Markk’s process is dead simple: dip, scrub, wipe. I had my nephew cleaning his sneakers like a pro in minutes. Crep Protect’s brush feels flimsy, and the foam requires harder scrubbing, which was annoying on mesh runners. Jason Markk is the easier choice.
- Effectiveness on Stains: Jason Markk made my white Stan Smiths noticeably cleaner, though soles weren’t blindingly white. Crep Protect did okay but struggled with set-in sole stains, leaving them dull. Jason Markk’s richer foam gives it a slight edge for overall cleaning.
- Value for Money: Jason Markk’s $16 kit (4 oz. solution) outlasts Crep Protect’s $18 kit (3.5 oz. solution). The latter’s brush and foam feel less premium, making Jason Markk the better value for long-term use.
- Eco-Friendliness and Brand Ethos: Jason Markk’s biodegradable formula and B Corp certification stand out. Crep Protect doesn’t emphasize sustainability, and its packaging feels gimmicky. Jason Markk’s eco-friendly approach makes it the winner here.
Jason Markk Vs. Pink Miracle
- Versatility Across Materials: Jason Markk’s solution works on everything from leather to suede to knit. I used it on my kid’s canvas sneakers and my leather boots with great results. Pink Miracle, a leather specialist, revived my old loafers but isn’t designed for suede or knit, limiting its scope. Jason Markk is the more versatile pick.
- Ease of Use: Jason Markk’s brush-and-scrub method is foolproof. Pink Miracle’s liquid formula requires diluting with water, which took me a few tries to get right. It’s not hard, but Jason Markk’s ready-to-go setup is more convenient.
- Effectiveness on Stains: Jason Markk handled dirt on my Air Max 1s and canvas shoes well. Pink Miracle was a beast on leather dress shoes but less effective on synthetic sneakers. For leather-only cleaning, Pink Miracle shines; for all-purpose, Jason Markk takes it.
- Value for Money: Jason Markk’s $16 kit cleans up to 100 pairs, while Pink Miracle’s 8 oz. bottle at $22 is pricier and less versatile. You’d need other products for non-leather shoes, making Jason Markk the better deal.
- Eco-Friendliness and Brand Ethos: Jason Markk’s green credentials—biodegradable, B Corp, EPA Safer Choice—give it a modern edge. Pink Miracle, an older brand, doesn’t prioritize sustainability. Jason Markk feels more aligned with today’s eco-conscious values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely, it works like a charm. I’ve used it on everything from leather sneakers to suede boots, and it consistently lifts dirt and stains without damaging the material. The foam lathers up nicely, making it easy to scrub away grime, and the results are noticeable after just one session. While it might not get white soles to their original brightness, it’s one of the most effective cleaners I’ve tried for overall shoe care.
This is subjective, but I’d put Jason Markk at the top for its versatility, ease of use, and eco-friendly formula. Compared to Reshoevn8r, which is great for leather but less gentle, or Crep Protect, which feels less premium, Jason Markk strikes the best balance. Angelus is better for suede, but it’s not as all-purpose. If you want one cleaner for all your shoes, Jason Markk’s Essential Kit is hard to beat.
It’s super simple. Grab a bowl of warm water, the Durables Cleaning Brush, and the Deep Cleaning Solution. Remove laces and insoles, then dry-brush loose dirt off the shoes. Dip the brush in water, add 4-5 drops of cleaner, and scrub in circular motions, focusing on stains. Wipe off excess foam with a microfiber towel, and let the shoes air dry. For suede, use the Delicates Brush and test in a small area first to avoid color bleeding.
Yes, it works well on UGGs, but you need to be careful. UGGs are typically suede, so use the Delicates Cleaning Brush and the Ready-to-Use Foam Cleaner to avoid oversaturating. Gently scrub in the direction of the nap, and blot with a microfiber towel. I’ve cleaned my UGGs with it, and they came out soft and stain-free, but always test a small spot first, as dyed suede can bleed.
Conclusion: Your Shoes Deserve Jason Markk
If you’re tired of dirty sneakers or scuffed-up boots, the Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner is your ticket to keeping them fresh. This kit isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about giving your shoes the care they deserve with a product that’s effective, eco-friendly, and easy to use.
From leather to suede, it handles it all with minimal effort and maximum results. Grab the Essential Kit today, and trust me, your kicks will thank you. It’s a small investment for a big payoff in style and longevity.