The Inspiring Rise of Mr. SG Cleaners and Sneakers Wash in Badplaas

By: De-Shark

In the heart of Badplaas, a small town known for its mineral springs and hardworking residents, a new kind of business is making waves one sneaker at a time. Mr. SG Cleaners and Sneakers Wash, founded in 2023 by local entrepreneur Siboniso Shongwe, is quickly becoming a household name for professional sneaker restoration and top-tier cleaning services.

For Shongwe, the journey began with adversity. “After losing my job, I refused to let unemployment define my future,” he recalls. Noticing that many locals invested in expensive shoes yet had nowhere nearby to have them professionally cleaned, Shongwe seized the opportunity. “That challenge inspired me to start a business that could restore sneakers while generating income for myself and creating opportunities for others.”

Cleaning is more than just work for Shongwe it’s a calling. “I’ve always enjoyed restoring items to look new again. Seeing a customer’s excitement after receiving freshly cleaned sneakers motivates me every day,” he shares. Through hands-on experience and a relentless drive to learn new techniques, Shongwe has honed his skills, ensuring each pair is treated with the utmost care.

Starting with minimal resources, Shongwe sold sneaker cleaning chemicals to save up for equipment. Working from home, he cleaned a handful of shoes each month and relied on word of mouth to grow his client base. Consistency and quality soon paid off and the business steadily expanded.

“Badplaas was the ideal location,” says Shongwe. The town’s residents, along with workers from nearby mines and businesses, needed convenient, reliable cleaning services. The brand name, Mr. SG Cleaners and Sneakers Wash, reflects Shongwe’s commitment to quality, professionalism and trust.

Today, the company offers:

• Professional sneaker cleaning and restoration (suede, leather, mesh and canvas)
• Carpet, sofa, mattress and car interior cleaning
• Cleaning product sales
• Pickup and delivery services (where possible)

What sets Mr. SG Cleaners and Sneakers Wash apart is its unwavering focus on quality, honesty and customer satisfaction. “Every pair of sneakers is cleaned using methods suitable for its material to avoid damage. We treat every customer’s belongings with care and aim to provide reliable, affordable and professional service,” Shongwe explains.

Their customers include mine workers, students, professionals, families and sports enthusiasts anyone who values clean shoes and furniture.

Operating from home and transporting heavy equipment on public transport have been major hurdles, as has accessing funding for new gear. “One lesson I learned was that growing too quickly without enough equipment can slow service delivery,” says Shongwe. “Proper business planning, financial management and clear policies are all essential.”

Shongwe’s goals for the next five years are bold: a fully equipped workshop, more employees, additional service vehicles, multiple branches across Mpumalanga and expanded services. “My vision is to create more jobs for local youth and eventually become a trusted national cleaning brand.”

The business has received strong backing from the community and local government, including the Department of Social Development’s sub-district office in Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. In a recent milestone, Mr. SG Cleaners and Sneakers Wash was awarded R45,000 at the Mpumalanga Bambelela Business Awards.

Motivation and Advice

“What keeps me going is seeing customers happy and knowing I’m creating employment opportunities,” Shongwe says. “I want to inspire young people to believe they can succeed, no matter their circumstances.”

His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Start with what you have. Be patient, stay consistent, provide quality service and treat customers with respect. Success comes through persistence and continuous learning.”

Locals can support the business by booking services, recommending it to friends, sharing it on social media and partnering for commercial cleaning projects. “Supporting local businesses helps create jobs and strengthen our community,” Shongwe notes.

Contact Mr. SG Cleaners and Sneakers Wash at 0798403182 or follow them on TikTok: mr SG cleaners and Sneakers wash.