HOW TO CARE FOR BALLET SLIPPERS AND SHOES: EXPERT GUIDE BY TYPE

Virginie Basecq
19 hours ago
2 min read

As a dance specialist and enthusiast, I regularly receive questions about the care of ballet slippers and shoes. Proper care extends their lifespan, maintains comfort, and optimizes your performance.

Here are my detailed tips, tailored to each type of slippers and shoes sold at All That Dance.

Why is maintenance essential?

Dance shoes are technical equipment, designed to support the foot, absorb shocks and accompany each movement.

Regular maintenance allows:

To preserve the shape and structure of the slipper or pointe shoe
To avoid premature wear
To limit odors and humidity
To ensure optimal hygiene

Pointe Maintenance

Pointe shoes are the most fragile shoes.

Here are my recommendations:

Air after each use : Take them out of the bag and let them air dry. No heaters or hair dryers.
Use a mesh or ventilated bag : Avoid airtight plastic bags.
Alternate pairs : If you wear your pointe shoes several times a week, use two pairs alternately to double their lifespan.
Protect the interior : Use suitable tips to preserve the box.
Cleaning : No water or machine! A dry or very slightly damp cloth is sufficient. Or perhaps a light wipe with a soft brush.

Maintenance of ballet slippers

Air Dry : After each class, let them breathe.
Brushing the soles : Use a small, soft brush to remove dust.
Hand wash (canvas only) : Warm water, mild soap, dry flat, away from any heat source.
Avoid heat : No radiators or hair dryers.

Caring for character shoes

Regular cleaning : Soft cloth to remove dust and marks.
Suitable polish : For leather only, never water.
Wear control : Check soles and heels, have them repaired at the first sign of wear.
Storage : Dry place, away from sunlight and humidity.

Common mistakes to Avoid

Never leave wet shoes in a closed bag
Do not expose to sunlight or direct heat
Avoid any harsh chemicals

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you machine wash your pointe shoes? No, it damages the structure and they become unusable.
How to avoid unpleasant odors? Always ventilate, change your tights, and use natural sprays if necessary, in very small doses.
What should I do if my shoes get wet? Air dry them, away from any heat source.