Whether you’re camping out overnight to cop the latest drop or not, caring for your crepes has become serious business in the style community. Not only are people spending more than ever on trainers, but we’re also taking steps to ensure our kicks aren’t ruined by surprise rainstorms or pint spills.

We asked doyen of the sneaker care game, Jason Markk of Jason Markk Premium Shoe Care, to fix the five most common mistakes men make and ensure – whether they’re box-fresh or you’ve been wearing them for years – your sneakers always look street style-ready.

Mistake: You’re Not Using A Water And Stain Repellent

Fix: Use A Water And Stain Repellent, Obviously

Water and stain repellents are big business, and that’s because they work. For any absorbent upper, whether nubuck or suede, it’s a smart idea to get them protected.

“Our spray is water-based and creates a breathable barrier that helps potential stains simply bead off,” explains Markk. Spray the whole shoe, leave overnight and repeat.

But don’t waste your time with these products if you’ve opted for a premium leather sneaker like those from Common Projects or Axel Arigato; they’re already sealed, and while stains can be easily wiped off you need to be more concerned about scuffs.

Jason Markk 8oz Repel Pump Spray, available at Size?

Mistake: You’re Not Cleaning Them Regularly Enough

Fix: Wipe Them Down Once A Week

Or as soon as they get dirty. “Allowing any stain to sink in and dry is going to make it more difficult to clean,” says Markk. “And even if you’ve used a repellent or your trainers are leather, laces and stitching are still absorbent and can be stained easily.”

While Markk admits to a rather obsessive daily wipe-down of his sneakers and the use of his own Quick Wipes, all that’s really necessary is acting on proper stains the day they happen along with a weekly maintenance wipe-down to keep general wear to a minimum.