Brolan is stepping into the footwear-care spotlight with its Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot 1.0, a compact all-in-one machine that both washes and dries shoes automatically. Introduced at CES 2026, the device is designed to make sneaker and everyday shoe maintenance far easier, especially for people who want cleaner shoes without hand-scrubbing or waiting hours for air-drying.
At its core, the Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot 1.0 focuses on deep cleaning inside and out. It uses nano-bubble water jets to loosen grime and target bacteria throughout the shoe, including hard-to-reach interior areas. After washing, it switches to low-temperature air jets to dry footwear thoroughly, aiming to reduce the musty odors and dampness that can linger after a traditional wash.
Brolan plans to offer two versions of the shoe washer and dryer. One model is built for a direct plumbing hookup, while another includes a fresh water tank for more flexible placement in homes or apartments. The company says it’s intended for shoes made from canvas, fabrics, certain leathers, and mixed materials that are normally considered washable. However, it is not meant for genuine leather or other materials that should not be washed, a key limitation for luxury footwear and more delicate styles.
What makes the machine stand out is how it adapts to different shoes. Infrared sensors detect a shoe’s size and shape, then the system adjusts cleaning mode and water-jet pressure to better match the material. Brolan also uses geared motors to move cleaning arms around the shoe so spray reaches more surfaces, while non-abrasive microfiber rollers help lift away dirt and debris without harsh scrubbing.
Each wash cycle uses about 4 liters of water and includes an automatic self-cleaning step for the inner chamber after use, helping keep the unit fresher over time. Drying is done at 50°C (122°F) and takes roughly 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the shoe. In terms of sound, Brolan claims the machine runs under 55 dB during washing and under 60 dB during drying, which is roughly in line with quiet household appliances.
Remote control is also part of the experience. Through a smartphone app, users can schedule cycles, start or stop cleaning, and check progress from a distance. The app also catalogs the shoes the machine has cleaned, which could be useful for households with multiple pairs and different materials.
Brolan says a crowdfunding campaign for the Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot is planned for March 2026, though pricing hasn’t been announced yet. And while the promise of automated shoe washing is appealing, it’s worth keeping expectations realistic—especially for collectible sneakers or premium pairs where wear, stains, and aging don’t always disappear with a wash.
