Patent Publication Number: US-11641910-B2

Title: Shoe bottom cleansing apparatus

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 16/838,957, filed Apr. 2, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of International Application No. PCT/US2019/050235, filed Sep. 9, 2019, which claims priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Ser. No. 62/740,451, filed on Oct. 3, 2018. The entire contents of those documents are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The apparatus, system and method described herein generally relate to efficiently and rapidly cleaning the bottom of a shoe, such as a cleansing portion and attachment member for affixing the cleansing portion to the shoe. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The bottom of basketball shoes often become soiled during gameplay. Shoes lose their grip to the court&#39;s surface over time due to the accumulation of dust, dirt and other contaminants collected from the court onto the bottom surface of a shoe. Resultantly, shoes and subsequently slide on the court&#39;s surface, potentially causing decreased performance and increased risk of injury. 
     Players often wipe their hands on the bottom of a basketball shoe to cleanse it, which leaves their hands dirty and slick when handling the ball. Often a player&#39;s hands will become sweaty from playing basketball. Resultantly, a player will often spit on his or her hand prior to wiping the bottom of the shoes. The associated saliva often contaminates the playing surface that the bottom of the shoe comes into contact with, resulting in an unsanitary playing environment. 
     Cleaning products are not readily available on the court to clean shoes. Current materials on shoes are not designed for cleaning or wiping away debris. The cleaning material on the shoe will eventually become dirty from wiping bottoms of shoes. A commonly known prior art cleaning solution involves a traction mat placed on the side of the court configured to allow a player to step onto a mat having a sticky surface to remove debris from the bottom of an athletic shoes, however this and similar prior art solutions have the disadvantage of not being accessible on the court of play. Therefore, a player does not have such a solution available to clean the bottom of his or her shoe during the actual gameplay. 
     Other solutions involve applying a foreign substance to the bottom of a shoe. Such solutions, however, are also generally inaccessible on the field of play during gameplay. In some circumstances, such substances do not make your shoe cleaner, but rather add more foreign substances to the bottom of a shoe. Such substances are prone to wearing away during gameplay. In some situations, substances are damaging to the shoe, limiting the shoe&#39;s lifespan. 
     Prior art solutions lack a practical method to detach a cleaning device. In previously known solutions, cleansing materials intended to remove debris from the bottom of shoes are not strategically positioned. Resultantly, a user cannot easily clean the bottom of his or her shoes while wearing the shoes. 
     Other solutions involve the use of cloths to remove debris off court. However, cloths are generally not configured to clean the bottom of shoes specifically. The use of a cloth to clean the bottom of the shoe requires a stoppage of activity to facilitate the cleansing. Therefore, an unmet challenge remains to specifically configure a cleaning material to address the dirty underside of athletic shoes. 
     Some prior art solutions involve a shoe attachment to facilitate cleaning. However, such solutions are not of an optimal size to clean the entirety of the bottom of shoes. An unsolved challenge therefore remains to produce a cleaning surface of a size and configuration to effectively and efficiently cleanse the bottom of the shoe. In some circumstances, prior art shoe cleaning attachments require the player to refill with the gel or cleaning fluids before each game, which is associated with the problems of such gels or cleaning fluids running out or otherwise being inaccessible at the time required for cleansing. Another problem associated with other prior art mechanisms is that they are limited to one size. A need therefore remains to create a cleansing mechanism customizable to fit a variety of shoe sizes. 
     Prior art mechanisms designed for attaching to shoes sometimes comprise a plastic raised portion affixed to or otherwise integrated within a shoe. However, such a plastic raised portion often presents the problem of player discomfort. 
     A related problem is that shoelaces associated with athletic shoes regularly become untied. Participants in an athletic activity, therefore, must retie shoes multiple times a game. This re-adjustment of the shoelaces and the shoe during gameplay often results in sub-optimally placed forces deriving from short, quick movements causing the foot to shift in relation to the shoe and its laces. An unsolved challenge, therefore, remains to create a more optimal solution to secure a shoe to one&#39;s foot during athletic activity. 
     Another still-unsolved challenge is that shoes are generally not designed to run through a washing machine. Cleaning attachments, likewise, are generally not configured to run through a washing machine. As a result, shoes often exhibit an unpleasant odor and unsanitary characteristics following gameplay. An unmet challenge, therefore, remains to configure shoes and cleaning mechanisms designed to affix to shoes such that they can run through a washing machine, as well as being hand washable. 
     A further unsolved challenge is that shoes, particularly athletic shoes, generally have no place to hold money or a key. For athletes specifically, it is often dangerous to hold a sharp object such as a key in one&#39;s pocket during gameplay. Contact experienced between players who have such objects in their pocket or otherwise affixed to their bodies in a way that they can come into contact with a player could cause significant injury. Likewise, money can specifically fall out and be lost resulting from the motion associated with athletic gameplay. Alternatively, leaving such objects as keys and money off the court of play during gameplay is associated with a significant risk of theft. Therefore, it remains to be solved how to optimally secure potentially dangerous and/or valuable objects to one&#39;s body during gameplay. 
     Currently, shoes are generally not individually customizable. Current solutions lack multiple options for customizing a shoe with multiple designs and attachments. Athletes, in particular, are noted for developing a sense of individual style. A need therefore remains to create a mechanism to help athletes promote an individual style. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure presents a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus, comprising: a cleansing portion for cleaning a bottom of a shoe; and an attachment member operably connected to the cleansing portion, the attachment member removably attaching the cleansing portion to the shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of the preceding paragraph, wherein the cleansing portioned about a top of the shoe so as to cover at least a portion of laces of the shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the cleansing portion has a first end and a second end. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first and second ends of the cleansing portion are configured to wrap about laces of the shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the cleansing portion is provided with a plurality of notches for receiving a portion of the attachment member. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the attachment member is incorporated into the cleansing portion. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the attachment member is configured as a plurality of attachment members. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the attachment member is configured to be connects to an underside of the cleansing portion. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the attachment member has at least one eyelet for receiving laces of a shoe so as to attach the cleansing portion to the shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising: a platform for placing a brand name or logo. 
     The present disclosure also presents a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus, comprising: a base having a first end and a second end; a plurality of cleansing portions extending from the base, wherein the cleansing portions comprise: three hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions; two dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions separating each of the three hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions; and a plurality of grooves disposed between the two dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions and the three hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions; and a means for removably attaching the first end and the second end of the base to a top portion of a shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of the previous paragraph, wherein the means for removably attaching the first end and the second end of the base to the top portion of the shoe comprises attaching the base to a portion of laces of the shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first and second ends are configured to wrap about laces of the shoe. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the base comprises a first wing, a second wing and a central section disposed between the first wing and the second wing. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein each of the three hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions comprise a first generally triangularly-shaped area, a second generally triangularly-shaped area and a generally rectangularly-shape area disposed between the first generally triangularly-shaped area and the second generally triangularly-shaped area. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first generally triangularly-shaped area is substantially disposed on the first wing, the second generally triangularly-shaped area is substantially disposed on the second wing and the generally rectangularly-shape area is substantially disposed on the central section. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein each of the two dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions comprises a first area, a second area and a bar connecting the first area and the second area. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first area comprises a generally triangular shape and the second area comprises a generally triangular shape. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first area is substantially disposed on the first wing, the second area is substantially disposed on the second wing and the bar is substantially disposed on the central section. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein each of the two dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions comprises a first area, a second area and a bar connecting the first area and the second area. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first area comprises a generally triangular shape and the second area comprises a generally triangular shape. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first area is substantially disposed on the first wing, the second area is substantially disposed on the second wing and the bar is substantially disposed on the central section. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING(S) 
         FIG.  1    depicts a top view of one embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attached by standard shoelaces to a shoe. 
         FIG.  2    depicts a top view of another embodiment of show bottom cleansing apparatus connected to a shoe by a plurality of connection apertures. 
         FIG.  3    depicts a top view of another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus featuring lace threading loops. 
         FIG.  4    depicts a top view of another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus connectably linked to a shoe by a plurality of zippers. 
         FIG.  5    depicts an underside view of another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus incorporating a pouch configured to abut a top surface of a shoe during intended use. 
         FIG.  6 A  depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus incorporating a zipper connection on two edges. 
         FIG.  6 B  depicts a side view of an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus having a zipper shoe attachment incorporating a zipper connection on one edge and a plurality of apertures within the body of the zipper shoe attachment. 
         FIG.  7    depicts an underside of an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus featuring underside hoops configured to accommodate silicon bands 
         FIG.  8    depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a snap. 
         FIG.  8 A  depicts a perspective view of an example of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus depicted in  FIG.  8   , wherein the apparatus is detached from the shoe. 
         FIG.  8 B  depicts a top view of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus depicted in  FIG.  8 A , wherein the apparatus is detached from the shoe. 
         FIG.  8 C  depicts an enlarged view of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion shown in  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B . 
         FIG.  8 D  depicts an enlarged view of the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion shown in  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B . 
         FIG.  8 E  depicts an end view of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus depicted in  FIG.  8 A , wherein the apparatus is detached from the shoe. 
         FIG.  8 F  depicts a bottom view of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus depicted in  FIG.  8 A , wherein the apparatus is detached from the shoe. 
         FIG.  8 G  depicts a side view of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus depicted in  FIG.  8 A , wherein the apparatus is detached from the shoe. 
         FIG.  9    depicts another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a plurality of buckles. 
         FIG.  10    depicts the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of  FIG.  9   . 
         FIG.  11    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a magnet attachment. 
         FIG.  12    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a snap closure. 
         FIG.  13    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a plurality of straps. 
         FIG.  14    depicts the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus of  FIG.  13   . 
         FIG.  15    depicts another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with lace attachment platforms. 
         FIG.  16    depicts the lace attachment platforms of  FIG.  15   . 
         FIG.  17    depicts an alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a magnetic strip. 
         FIG.  18    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a binding edge. 
         FIG.  19    depicts another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a hook and loop attachment. 
         FIG.  20    depicts another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a connector assembly. 
         FIG.  21    depicts the connector assembly of  FIG.  20   . 
         FIG.  22    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with an attachment assembly. 
         FIG.  23    depicts another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a fidlock clip. 
         FIG.  24    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with a Velcro® attachment. 
         FIG.  25    depicts an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with an attachment member. 
         FIG.  26    depicts another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attachable to a shoe with an attachment member. 
         FIG.  27    is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus attached to a shoe worn by an individual. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concept disclosed herein in detail, it is to be understood that the inventive concept is not limited in its application to the details of construction, experiments, exemplary data, and/or the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description, or illustrated in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting in any way. 
     In the following detailed description of embodiments of the inventive concept, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the inventive concept. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the inventive concept within the disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the instant disclosure. 
     Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present). 
     In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the inventive concept. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise. 
     Finally, as used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. 
     Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to  FIG.  1   , shown therein is an exemplary embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  10  constructed in accordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein, the show bottom cleansing apparatus attached to a shoe  12 . The teachings and disclosures related to embodiments of the invention relate to a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus intended to remove debris, such as dirt and dust, from the bottom of athletic shoes. In embodiments of the invention, during the intended method of use debris removal utilizing the apparatus allow a user to remove debris from the bottom of athletic shoes he or she is wearing without dirtying his or her hands, and without stoppage of athletic gameplay. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  10  is provided with a cleansing portion  14 . The cleansing portion  14  is further configured to affix to a shoe. The cleansing portion  14  provides a surface portion variably sized to correspond with the top portion of a shoe above its tongue. In embodiments of the invention, the cleansing portion&#39;s  14  usable surface faces upward, allowing for the user to drag the bottom of the opposite shoe across the cleansing portion  14  to accomplish the desired cleaning of the bottom of the opposite shoe during intended use. 
     In an embodiment, the design for the cleansing portion  14  includes a cleaning material with elastic edges. The elastic edges allow for stretching of the cleansing portion  14  after the embodiment is affixed to a shoe. In an embodiment, the cleansing portion  14  further comprises an elastic border along a portion of the edge of the cleansing portion. In an embodiment, the elastic border comprises an elastic string. In an embodiment, the elastic border comprises nylon polyester. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the cleansing portion  14  comprises microfiber, cotton, wool, suede, felt, rubber, leather or another similar material as apparent to one skilled in the art. In another embodiment, the cleansing material may be glow in the dark and light reflective materials. During the intended use, a user may spray the cleansing portion  14  with a variety of cleaning fluids as known by one skilled in the art to enhance the cleaning action. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the cleansing portion&#39;s  14  materials allow for durability of the invention to prevent splitting and/or tearing. In the preferred embodiment, the dimensions of the cleansing portion  14  measure 2-4 inches wide by 3-6 inches in height, which the present inventor recognizes is an appropriate size for the shoes associated with intended uses. In embodiments of the invention, the material comprising the cleansing portion extends beyond the entire portion of the laces, as depicted in  FIGS.  1  and  2   . The resultant large surface space of the cleansing portion  14  provides the user with the ability entire bottom of shoe as the shoe is swiped across the cleansing portion  14 . Moreover, in an alternative use, an athlete can wipe their hands across the surface portions as placed to clean sweaty hands off. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  10  easily attaches to a shoe  12  by weaving the laces of a shoe through connection apertures  16  incorporated either directly into the cleansing portion  14  or into a shoe attachment piece ( FIGS.  6 A and  6 B ) affixed to the cleansing portion  14 . In alternative embodiments, connection apertures  26  are incorporated directly into a cleansing portion  24  of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  20  attached to a shoe  22 , as depicted in  FIG.  2   . 
     In one embodiment, as shown in  FIG.  3   , a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  30  has a plurality of connection apertures  36  connected to a cleansing portion  34 . 
     In an embodiment, a cleansing portion  42  of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  40  is affixed to a shoe attachment piece  44  which is attached to a shoe  46 . In an embodiment, such attachment  44  is accomplished by a zipper, as depicted in  FIG.  4   . 
     In an embodiment of the invention, a cleansing portion  52  of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  50  further comprises a pouch  54 , as depicted in  FIG.  5   . In an embodiment, the pouch  54  is configured for underneath the cleansing portion  52 . During one use in an embodiment, the positioning of the pouch  54  between the external surface of the cleansing portion  52  and the top of the shoe. The pouch  54  is configured generally as an enclosed pocket to hold small items such as keys or money. In an embodiment, the pouch  54  comprises mesh. In an embodiment, the pouch  54  further comprises a closure mechanism  56 , such as a snap button, zipper, hook, rivet or Velcro®. In an embodiment of the invention, the pouch&#39;s  54  dimensions generally correspond to the dimensions of the cleansing portion  52 . In alternative embodiments of the invention, the pouch&#39;s  54  dimensions are smaller width-wise and length-wise than the dimensions of the cleansing portion  52 . In various embodiments of the invention, the pouch  54  comprises enough depth to enclose and retain folded money and three keys. In one embodiment, an attachment mechanism for the cleansing portion  52  to a shoe are snaps  58  with corresponding snap receptacles integrated into the shoe. 
     In an embodiment, one edge of a cleansing portion  62  of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  60  comprises a portion of a zipper  64  and one edge of a shoe attachment piece  66  comprises the corresponding portion of a zipper  64  as depicted in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B . In various embodiments, the affixation of the cleansing portion  62  to a shoe occurs via a strong threading capable of withstanding the forces typically placed upon the body of the shoe during athletic activity. In an embodiment, the bulk of the shoe attachment piece  66  is comprised of a piece of nylon polyester. The shoe attachment piece  66  in an embodiment is configured to comprise connection apertures  68  to allow for shoelaces to weave through the shoe attachment piece  66 , as shown in  FIG.  6 B . 
     The shoe attachment piece  66  is configured in various embodiment to affix to the cleansing portion  62 . In varying embodiments, the affixation of the shoe attachment piece  66  to the cleansing portion  62  takes place via rivets, buttons, Velcro®, zippers, clasps and/or hooks placed in the cleansing portion  62  and/or the shoe attachment piece  66 . In an alternative embodiment, the shoe attachment piece  66  is integrated directly into the cleansing portion  62  in one unified body. In an embodiment of the invention, the shoe attachment piece&#39;s  66  dimensions measure approximately 3-6 inches in height, generally corresponding to the height of the cleansing portion  62 , with a width slightly larger than the rivets, buttons, Velcro®, zippers, clasps and/or hooks integrated therein. 
     During an embodiment method of use, the cleansing portion  14  is placed on the top of a basketball shoe, over the laces and/or the tongue. This placement facilitates the user&#39;s ability to wipe the bottom of the user&#39;s other shoe over the cleansing portion  14  easily by raising the other shoe over the shoe containing the cleansing portion  14  while the shoe containing the cleansing portion  14  is on the floor while the user is standing. This action may be accomplished by the user without the assistance of the user&#39;s hands. The present inventor recognizes that by utilizing the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus in this manner, a user need not wait for a stoppage in gameplay and instead may briefly stop to quickly cleanse the bottom of his or her shoe while gameplay continues around him or her. The use of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus may prolong the grip life of rubbered sole shoes, as the near-continuously available ability to cleanse the shoe may prevent debris from permanently lodging within or otherwise deforming the shape of the rubber gripping surface. In the process of retaining grip, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus can prevent players from injuries associated with taking quick cuts on the court by improving the shoe&#39;s ability to allow its user to plant his or her feet without sliding. 
     Embodiments of the invention provide for the display of a customizable decorative item. In an embodiment, the customizable decorative item comprises a logo. In an embodiment, the customizable decorative item is affixed to the upper portion of the cleaning portion. In an embodiment, the customizable decorative item is removably attachable such that a user can add or remove a customization at their whim. Users will utilize the customizable decorative item to showcase an image to customize the shoes to allow them to uniquely display a logo or some other stylistic element. In a method of use associated with the invention, a user may create a design that is either integrated within the cleansing portion, or otherwise affixed to the cleansing portion to create a shoe-specific customization. 
     In the one embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus is detachable. In one embodiment, the detachability of the invention is accomplished by unlacing the shoelaces from the shoe attachment piece. In an alternative embodiment, the detachability is accomplished via a zipper that creates an attachment to the shoe. In an alternative embodiment, a Velcro® surface is affixed to the underside of the cleansing surface and a corresponding Velcro® surface is attached to the upper surface of the shoe. In an alternative embodiment, the detachment is accomplished via the release of snaps. The present inventor has recognized that the detachability of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus allows a user to quickly and easily switch out the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus for an alternative shoe bottom cleansing apparatus optionally with an alternative design or customizable decorative item. The present inventor has also recognized that the detachable nature of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus allows a user to rapidly swap a soiled cleansing portion for a new clean cleansing portion. The present inventor has also recognized the favorable aspect of an embodiment that the detachability allows a player to have multiple options to replace a specific design for different customizations per game, for instance, to identify which team the player plays for, or alternatively to create marketing exposure for multiple items during a single game. 
     A further advantage associated with the preferred embodiment is that the detachable nature of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus allows for machine washing, as well as hand washing of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus. In the preferred embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus is washable and therefore available for multiple uses. The method of detachment, via laces typically found on athletic shoes, allow for the shoes to safely be washed without risking damage to the shoe. Moreover, the shoe attachment piece is configured to allow the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus to fit any size shoe. 
     In embodiments of the invention, the shoe bottom cleaning apparatus is configured to create a closure of the shoe. In embodiments, the shoe bottom cleaning apparatus is configured such that it tightens the shoe. The cleansing portion in an embodiment is configured to keep shoes laces from becoming untied. In an embodiment, the cleansing layer provides a layer over the shoelaces during intended use, allowing the shoe laces to be tucked between the cleansing portion and the top of the shoe. In an embodiment of the invention, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus is configured to obviate the need for shoelaces or other closures, by providing the mechanism for shoe closure itself. Referring to  FIG.  7   , in an embodiment of the invention, the closure action or tightening action is accomplished by the integration of silicon bands  72  configured with anchors at either end further configured to fit through and securely latch to shoelace holes of a shoe. In an embodiment, the silicon bands  72  travel through underside rings  74  affixed to the underside of a cleansing portion  76  of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  70 , as depicted in  FIG.  7   . In an embodiment, the silicon bands  72  travel through both underside rings  74  and connection apertures within the cleansing portion  76  or shoe attachment piece (not shown). In such embodiment, the silicon bands  72  more securely affix the cleansing portion  76  of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  70  to a shoe. In one embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  70  having a pouch  78  further comprises a closure mechanism  79 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  8   , another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is shown removably connected to a shoe  82 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is provided with a cleansing portion  84  having a first end  85  and a second end  86 . The cleansing portion  84  is configured to be positioned over the top of the shoe  82 . The ends  85  and  86  are configured to wrap about laces  87  of the shoe  82 . The ends  85  and  86  are provided with snap closures  88  and  89 , respectively, for connecting the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  to the shoe  82 . As contemplated herein above, particularly in the third paragraph preceding this paragraph, namely the paragraph beginning with the following sentence: “In the one embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus is detachable.”, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  may include additional or alternative structures for connecting the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  to a shoe. For example, the apparatus  80  may include any of the attachment structures described within this disclosure, such as zippers, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, elastic binds, buckles, and the like. In one embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is constructed from compressed molded ethylene vinyl acetate with microfiber. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  8 A- 8 G , there is shown further detail of an example of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  shown in  FIG.  8   . As illustrated in  FIGS.  8 ,  8 A,  8 B and  8 G , the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  may include five cleansing portions raised above a base  91 . That is, the base  91  has a top surface and a bottom surface, and the cleansing portions extend from the top surface of the base  91 . For example, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  may be configured to have three hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  305 ,  84 ,  310  separated by two dumbbell-shaped or dog-boned shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320 . Assuming the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is attached to the laces  87  of the shoe  82 , the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  is disposed at or toward the top of the laces  87 , the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  is disposed at or toward the bottom of the laces  87 , and the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  is disposed between the two dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320 . Hence, due to the relative orientation of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions to one another, the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  may be referred to as the top cleansing portion, the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  may be referred to as the middle cleansing portion, and the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  may be referred to as the bottom cleansing portion. Similarly, due to the relative orientation of the two dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions to one another, the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  may be referred to as the top intermediate cleansing portion, the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  may be referred to as the bottom intermediate cleansing portion. That is, the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  is disposed between the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 , and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  is disposed between the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 . 
     A hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion shall mean a cleansing portion having at least six sides. More specifically, a hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion may have an irregular hexagon shape. For example, the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  has a first parallel side  84   b , connected to and extending in opposite directions to a first tapered side  84   a  and a second tapered side  84   c . The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  also has a second parallel side  84   e , connected to and extending in an opposite direction to a third diagonal side  84   d  and a fourth diagonal side  84   f . The first parallel side  84   b  and the second parallel side  84   e  are parallel to one another. The lengths of the first parallel side  84   b  and the second parallel side  84   e  may be about equal to one another. The term “about” is understood as including a stated value within ±10 percent. For example, the lengths of the first parallel side  84   b  and the second parallel side  84   e  may be between about 10 to 50 millimeters (mm), including any increment therebetween, such as about 30 mm. The lengths of the first diagonal side  84   a , the second diagonal side  84   c , the third diagonal side  84   d  and the fourth diagonal side  84   f  may be about equal to another. For example, the lengths of the first diagonal side  84   a , the second diagonal side  84   c , the third diagonal side  84   d  and the fourth diagonal side  84   f  may be between about 10 mm to 20 mm, including any increment therebetween, such as about 15 mm. 
     The first diagonal side  84   a  and the second diagonal side  84   c  extend at an angle of between about 25 to 45 degrees, such as 35 degrees, from opposite ends of the first parallel side  84   b , wherein the angle is measured between the longitudinal axis of the first parallel side  84   b  and both (1) the first diagonal side  84   a  and (2) the second diagonal side  84   c . Similarly, the third diagonal side  84   d  and the fourth diagonal side  84   f  extend an angle of between about 25 to 45 degrees, such as 35 degrees, from opposite ends of the second parallel side  84   e , wherein the angle is measured between the longitudinal axis of the second parallel side  84   e  and both (1) the third diagonal side  84   d  and (2) the fourth diagonal side  84   f.    
     Because the lengths of the parallel sides are the same, the lengths of the diagonal sides are the same, and the tapered angles are the same for the diagonal sides, the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  is symmetrical. A hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion, however, does not need to be symmetrical. For example, neither the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  nor the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  are symmetrical. The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  has a first parallel side  305   b , connected to and extending in opposite directions to a first diagonal side  305   a  and a second diagonal side  305   c . The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  also has a second parallel side  305   e , connected to and extending in opposite directions to a third diagonal side  305   d  and a fourth diagonal side  305   f . The first parallel side  305   b  and the second parallel side  305   e  are parallel to one another. The lengths of the first parallel side  305   b  and the second parallel side  305   e  are equal to one another. For example, the lengths of the first parallel side  305   b  and the second parallel side  305   e  may be between about 20 mm to 40 mm, including any increment therebetween, such as about 30 mm. The lengths of the first diagonal side  305   a , the second diagonal side  305   c , the third diagonal side  305   d  and the fourth diagonal side  305   f  are not all equal to another. The lengths of the first diagonal side  305   a  and the second diagonal side  305   c  are equal to one another, and the lengths of the third diagonal side  305   d  and the fourth diagonal side  305   f  are equal to one another. For example, the lengths of the first diagonal side  305   a  and the second diagonal side  305   c  may be equal to between about 7.5 mm to 12.5 mm, such as about 10 mm or 10.5 mm, and the lengths of the third diagonal side  305   d  and the fourth diagonal side  305   f  may be equal to between about 5 mm to 10 mm, such as about 7.5 mm. Also, the first diagonal side  84   a  and the second diagonal side  84   c  extend at an angle of between about 45 to 65 degrees, such as about 55 degrees, from opposite ends of the first parallel side  305   b , wherein the angle is measured from the longitudinal axis of the first parallel side  305   b  and both (1) the first diagonal side  305   a  and (2) the second diagonal side  305   c . Similarly, the third diagonal side  305   d  and the fourth diagonal side  305   f  extend at an angle of between about 25 to 45 degrees, such as about 35 degrees, from opposite ends of the second parallel side  305   e , wherein the angle is measured from the longitudinal axis of the second parallel side  305   e  and both (1) the third diagonal side  305   d  and (2) the fourth diagonal side  305   f.    
     The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  has a first parallel side  310   b , connected to and extending in opposite direction to a first diagonal side  310   a  and a second diagonal side  310   c . The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  also has a second parallel side  310   e , connected to and extending in opposite direction to a third diagonal side  310   d  and a fourth diagonal side  310   f . The first parallel side  310   b  and the second parallel side  310   e  are parallel to one another. The lengths of the first parallel side  310   b  and the second parallel side  310   e  are equal to one another. For example, the lengths of the first parallel side  310   b  and the second parallel side  310   e  may be between about 20 mm to 40 mm, including any increment therebetween, such as about 30 mm. The lengths of the first diagonal side  310   a , the second diagonal side  310   c , the third diagonal side  310   d  and the fourth diagonal side  310   f  are not all equal to another. The lengths of the first diagonal side  310   a  and the second diagonal side  310   c  are equal to one another, and the lengths of the third diagonal side  310   d  and the fourth diagonal side  310   f  are equal to one another. For example, the lengths of the first diagonal side  310   a  and the second diagonal side  310   c  may between about 5 mm to 10 mm, such as about 7.5 mm, and the lengths of the third diagonal side  310   d  and the fourth diagonal side  310   f  may be between about 7.5 mm to 12.5 mm, such as about 10 mm or 10.5 mm. Also, the first diagonal side  84   a  and the second diagonal side  84   c  extend at an angle between about 25 to 45 degrees, such as about 35 degrees, from opposite ends of the first parallel side  310   b , wherein the angle is measured from the longitudinal axis of the first parallel side  310   b  and (1) the first diagonal side  310   a  and (2) the second diagonal side  310   c . Similarly, the third diagonal side  310   d  and the fourth diagonal side  310   f  extend at an angle of between about 25 to 45 degrees, such as about 35 degrees, from opposite ends of the second parallel side  310   e , wherein the angle is measured from the longitudinal axis of the second parallel side  310   e  and (1) the third diagonal side  310   d  and (2) the fourth diagonal side  310   f.    
     As mentioned above, a hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion shall mean a cleansing portion having at least six sides. For the purposes of this disclosure, a hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion shall include a cleansing portion having a polygon with six sides that expand across the substantial majority of the width e of the shoe cleaning apparatus. For example, the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  has two ends or sides  84   h ,  84   i , wherein the end  84   h  connects the second diagonal side  84   c  to the third diagonal side  84   d , and the end  84   i  connects the first diagonal side  84   a  to the fourth diagonal side  84   f , thereby closing the polygon. The two ends or sides  84   h ,  84   i  are also generally parallel to one another and substantially perpendicular to the first parallel side  84   b  and the second parallel side  84   e.    
     As mentioned above and as shown in  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B , the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  is disposed between the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 , and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  is disposed between the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 . Referring to  FIG.  8 C , the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  has a left area  317  and a right area  321  connected by a bar  319 . The left area  317  and right area  321  each have a generally triangular shape to complement the shapes of the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 . For example, the left area  317  is formed by a first diagonal side  315   a , a second diagonal side  315   g  (and optionally a third side  315   i ) and an end side  315   h , wherein the end side  315   h  is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar  319 . Similarly, the right area  321  is formed by a first diagonal side  315   c , a second diagonal side  315   e  (and optionally a third side  315   j ) and an end side  315   d , wherein the end side  315   d  is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar  319 . The left area  317  and the right area  321  are mirror images of one another. The bar  319  is formed by a first parallel side  315   b  and a second parallel side  315   f , wherein the first parallel side  315   b  and the second parallel side  315   f  are parallel to one another. The first parallel side  315   b  and the second parallel side  315   f  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  have the same or substantially similar lengths of the first parallel side  305   b  and the second parallel side  305   e  of the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  because the shapes of the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  are adjacent to and complement the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310 . As such, the lengths of the diagonal sides  315   a ,  315   g ,  315   e ,  315   g  of the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  are the same or similar to the lengths of the diagonal sides  84   a ,  84   c ,  84   d ,  84   f  of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  or the other hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  305 ,  310 . If the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  has additional diagonal sides  315   i ,  315   j , then those additional sides may have lengths less the diagonal sides  315   a ,  315   g ,  315   e ,  315   g , and diagonal sides  315   a ,  315   g ,  315   e ,  315   g  may not be equal to one another. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8 D , the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  has a left area  323  and a right area  329  connected by a bar  327 . The left area  323  and right area  329  each have a generally triangular shape to complement the shapes of the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 . For example, the left area  323  is formed by a first diagonal side  320   a , a second diagonal side  320   g  (and optionally a third side  320   i ) and an end side  320   h , wherein the end side  320   h  is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar  327 . Similarly, the right area  329  is formed by a first diagonal side  320   c , a second diagonal side  320   e  (and optionally a third side  320   j ) and an end side  320   d , wherein the end side  320   d  is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar  327 . The left area  323  and the right area  329  are mirror images of one another. The bar  327  is formed by a first parallel side  320   b  and a second parallel side  320   f , wherein the first parallel side  320   b  and the second parallel side  320   f  are parallel to one another. The first parallel side  320   b  and the second parallel side  320   f  of the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  have the same or substantially similar lengths of the first parallel side  84   b  and the second parallel side  84   e  of the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  because the shapes of the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  are adjacent to and complement the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310 . As such, the lengths of the diagonal sides  320   a ,  320   c ,  320   e ,  320   g  of the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  are the same or similar to the lengths of the diagonal sides  84   a ,  84   c ,  84   d ,  84   f  of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  or the other hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  305 ,  310 . If the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  has additional diagonal sides  320   i ,  320   j , then those additional sides may have lengths less the diagonal sides  320   a ,  320   c ,  320   e ,  320   g , and diagonal sides  320   a ,  320   c ,  320   e ,  320   g  may not be equal to one another. 
     Continuing to refer to  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D , the left areas  317 ,  323  and the right areas  321 ,  329  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  are generally triangular shaped because the diagonal sides  315   a ,  315   g ,  315   c ,  315   e  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the diagonal sides  320   a ,  320   g ,  320   c ,  320   e  of the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  diverge as the diagonal sides extend away from the bars  319 ,  327  and towards the end sides  315   h ,  315   d ,  320   h ,  320   d  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320 , respectively. That is, each of the sides are flat and the aggregated sides form complementary shapes. Because the shapes of the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  are adjacent to and complement the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310 , the diagonal sides  84   a ,  305   a ,  310   a ,  84   f ,  305   f ,  310   f ,  84   c ,  305   c ,  310   c ,  84   d ,  305   d ,  310   d  of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310  also form generally triangular shaped complementary to the left areas  317 ,  323  and the right areas  321 ,  329  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320 . But the diagonal sides  84   a ,  305   a ,  310   a ,  84   f ,  305   f ,  310   f ,  84   c ,  305   c ,  310   c ,  84   d ,  305   d ,  310   d  of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 ,  305 ,  310  converge as the diagonal sides extend away from the first and second parallel sides  84   b ,  84   e ,  305   a ,  305   e ,  310   a ,  310   e  of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310 . That is, the generally triangular-shaped areas of the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310  and the intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  face different directions because they are complementary to one another. The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions and the intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions may have other complementary shapes. For example, the sides of the cleansing portions may both have a zig-zag or sinusoidal or S-shaped sides to engage and complement one another. Additionally, one of the cleansing portions may be circular shaped, and at least a portion of the other cleansing portion may have an arc shape. 
     Referring again to  FIGS.  8 ,  8 A and  8 B , the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  305 ,  84 ,  310  may be separated by dumbbell-shaped or dog-boned shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320 . The hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  305 ,  84 ,  310  and the dumbbell-shaped or dog-boned shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  are raised above a base  91 , and the spacing between the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  305 ,  84 ,  310  and the dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  create(s) grooves. For example, groove  330  is created between the bottom dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  and the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310 ; groove  335  is created between the bottom dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 ; groove  335  is created between the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84  and the bottom dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320 ; groove  340  is created between the top dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the middle hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  84 ; and groove  345  is created between the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  and the top dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315 . The widths of some or all of the grooves  330 ,  335 ,  340 ,  345  may be the same or different. The widths of some or all of the lengths of the grooves  330 ,  335 ,  340 ,  345  may be constant or vary. For example, the widths of some or all of the grooves  330 ,  335 ,  340 ,  345  may be between about 1 mm to 5 mm including any increment therebetween, such as about 3 mm. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  8 A,  8 B,  8 E,  8 F and  8 G , base  91  of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  extends from the first end  85  to the second end  86 . In an unsnapped configuration, the length f of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  extending from the most distal point of the first end  85  to most distal point of the second end  86  may be between about 200 mm to 400 mm, including any value therebetween, such as about 245 mm, 250 mm, 255 mm, 260 mm, 265 mm, 270 mm, 275 mm, 280 mm, 285 mm, 290 mm, 300 mm, 305 mm, 310 mm, 315 mm 320 mm, 325 mm, 330 mm, 335 mm, 340 mm, 345 mm, 350 mm and 355 mm. The base  91  has a central section that has a length b, which extends longitudinally from the first end  85  to the second end  86  in  FIG.  8 B . For example, length b may be between about 70 mm to 90 mm or any increment therebetween, such as about 78, 79, 80, 81 or 82 mm. The intersections of the central section and the folds when the first end  85  and the second end  86  are wrapped under the laces  87  and snapped together via the snaps. Specifically, the first end  85  comprises a snap  88   a , and the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  comprises a snap  88   b ; so, when the first end  85  folds along the intersection with the central section, the first end  85  is located under the bottom hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  310  and the snaps  88   a ,  88   b  are matingly engaged. Similarly, the second end  86  comprises a snap  89   b , and the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  comprises a snap  89   a ; so, when the second end  86  folds along the intersection with the central section, the second end  86  is located under the top hexagonal-shaped cleansing portion  305  and the snaps  89   a ,  89   b  are matingly engaged. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  8 A,  8 B,  8 F and  8 G , there are depicted slots  351 ,  352  disposed within the first end  85  and the second end  86 , respectively. The slots  351 ,  352  allow for inserting and passing therethrough a loop  350  or other ornamental item. The loop  350  also allows the wearer of the apparatus a component upon which to grasp or to pull when attaching or removing the apparatus from the shoe. As shown in these figures, the loop  350  passes trough the slot  351  such that a portion of the loop  350  is exposed on the top surface of the apparatus, and a portion of the loop  350  is exposed to the bottom surface of the apparatus. One end of the loop  350  is attached to the bottom surface via the snap  89   a . That is, one end of the loop  350  is fixedly coupled to the base  91  and disposed between the snap  89  and the bottom surface of the base  91 . And the other end of the loop  350  is freely disposed on top surface of the apparatus. Although the figures only depict one loop  350  inserted through slot  351 , it is envisioned that another or an alternative loop may be inserted through slot  352  and be attached to snap  88   b.    
     Referring to  FIGS.  8 B,  8 E and  8 F , the central section has a length b, which extends longitudinally from the proximal ends of the first end  85  and the second end  86 . The width of the central section extends laterally across the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80 . The width of the central section begins at width e for a length c of the central section, and the width of the central section decreases and tapers to width d as the central section extends from length c to length b. For example, length b may be between about 70 mm to 90 mm, and width e may be between about 50 mm to 70 mm or any increment therebetween, such as about 68, 69, 70, 71 or 72 mm. And length c may be between about 30 mm to 50 mm or any increment therebetween, such as about 38, 39, 40, 41 or 42 mm. The base  91  also has a left wing portion having a width a, a middle portion having a width d, and a right wing portion having a width a. For example, width a may be between about 10 mm to 20 mm or any increment therebetween, such as about 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17 mm, and width d may be between about 10 mm to 30 mm or any increment therebetween, such as about 18, 19, 20, 21, or 22 mm. The length of the middle portion is b. The left wing portion begins with length c and increases to length b as it tapers inwardly toward the longitudinal axis of the shoe cleansing apparatus. Similarly, the right wing portion begins with length c and increases to length b as it tapers inwardly toward the longitudinal axis of the shoe cleansing apparatus. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is configured such that the left wing portion and right wing portion bend downwardly, as illustrated in  FIG.  8 F . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is configured such that (a) the left areas  317 ,  323  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  are substantially disposed on the left wing, (b) the right areas  321 ,  329  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  are substantially disposed on the right wing, and (c) the bars  319 ,  323  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  are substantially disposed on the central section. For example, substantially disposed on the central section shall mean that the majority of the relevant area or component is disposed on the central section; the ends of the bars  319 ,  323  of the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  315  and the bottom intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portion  320  may be disposed on the left areas  317 ,  323  and/or the right areas  321 ,  329 , but the bars  319 ,  327  are predominantly disposed on the central section. 
     The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is configured such that the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310  have (a) the first diagonal sides  84   a ,  305   a ,  315   a  and fourth diagonal sides  84   f ,  305   f ,  315   f  are substantially disposed on the left wing, (b) the first parallel sides  84   b ,  305   b ,  310   b  and the second parallel sides  84   e ,  305   e ,  315   e  are substantially disposed on the central section, and (c) the second diagonal sides  84   c ,  305   c ,  315   c  and third diagonal sides  84   d ,  305   d ,  315   d  are substantially disposed on the right wing. Stated differently, (a) the first diagonal sides  84   a ,  305   a ,  315   a  and fourth diagonal sides  84   f ,  305   f ,  315   f  form generally triangularly shaped areas within the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions, and the generally triangularly shaped areas are substantially disposed on the left wing, (b) the first parallel sides  84   b ,  305   b ,  310   b  and the second parallel sides  84   e ,  305   e ,  315   e  define generally rectangularly shaped areas within the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310  and the generally rectangularly shaped areas are substantially disposed on the central section, and (c) the second diagonal sides  84   c ,  305   c ,  315   c  and third diagonal sides  84   d ,  305   d ,  315   d  form generally triangularly shaped areas within the hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions, and the generally triangularly shaped areas are substantially disposed are substantially disposed on the right wing. 
     As mentioned above, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  is constructed from compressed molded ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) surrounded by a fabric, such as a microfiber. The thickness of the EVA is between about 1 mm to 3 mm or any increment therebetween, such as about 2 mm, at the base  91  and between about 2 mm to 6 mm, such as about 4 mm, at hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310  and the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320 , wherein the thickness of the EVA is greater at the at hexagonal-shaped cleansing portions  84 ,  305 ,  310  and the top intermediate dumbbell-shaped cleansing portions  315 ,  320  in comparison to the thickness of the EVA at the base  91 . The EVA has a hardness of Shore 30 to Shore 70 (on a Shore A scale), including any value therebetween, such as Shore 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 65 (one a Shore A scale). As mentioned above, EVA is a material capable of being compressed molded. Other compression molding materials that may be used to create the device include cross-linked foams, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foams, open cell urethanes, fabrics and thermoplastic urethane films. 
     As mentioned above, the compression molded material is surrounded by a fabric, such as a microfiber. The fabric may be laminated to the fabric with an adhesive. Although it is not shown in the drawings, the fabric may include stitching around the perimeter of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  in order to increase the adherence of the fabric to the EVA. Additionally, the bottom side of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  may include silicone or some type of adhesive around its perimeter to increase friction between the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  and the shoe and thereby minimize movement of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  relative to the shoe. 
     Constructing the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  of compression molded material, surrounding the compression molded material with a fabric, and configuring the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  as described in this disclosure, such as the size and shape of its different portions, provides the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  80  with various commercially desirable features, including being light weight, highly durable, the ability to hold a specific form thereby allowing the apparatus to conform to a shoe profile, capable of flexing without breaking or tearing, absorbent so pressure from other foot does not add substantial pressure to the top of the foot to which the apparatus is attached during use, resilient even after long-term use and machine washable. 
     Now referring to  FIGS.  9 - 10   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  90  is shown connected to a shoe  92 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  90  is provided with a cleansing portion  94  having a first end  95  and a second end  96 . The cleansing portion  94  is configured to be positioned over the top of the shoe  92 . A plurality of buckles  97  are provided extending from a portion of the cleansing portion  94  for connecting the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  90  about the tongue  98  of the shoe  92 . The second end  96  is configured to wrap about a portion of the tongue  98  of the shoe  92  to assist in connecting the show bottom cleansing apparatus  90  to the shoe  92 . In one embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  90  is provided with a platform  99  for placing a brand, team logo or other names, logos, art, words, etc., as so desired. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  11   , shown therein is an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  100  removably connected to a shoe  102 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  100  is provided with a cleansing portion  104  having a first end  105  and a second end  106 . The cleansing portion  104  is configured to be positioned over a top portion of the shoe  102 . A plurality of first magnets  107  are configured to be attached to a portion of the first end  105  and the second end  106  of the cleansing portion  104  so as to be correspondingly attachable to a plurality of second magnets  108  attached to laces  109  of the shoe  102  so that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  100  is connected to the shoe  102 . 
     Now referring now to  FIG.  12   , another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  110  is shown removably connected to a shoe  112 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  110  is provided with a first end  115  and a second end  116  with a cleansing portion  114  positioned therebetween. The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  110  is wrapped about the laces  117  such that the laces  117  are enclosed by the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  110 . The first end  115  is provided with a first connection member  118  and the second end  116  is provided with a second connection member  119  that corresponds to the connection member  118  so that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  110  is connected to the laces  117  of the shoe  112 . In one embodiment, the connection member  118  and  119  are snap portions. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  13 - 14   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  120  is shown connected to a shoe  122 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  120  is provided with a cleansing portion  124  having a first end  125  and a second end  126 . The cleansing portion  124  is provided with a plurality of notches  127  along each side of the cleansing portion  124  for receiving a plurality of straps  128 . In an embodiment, the straps  128  are elastic. The cleansing portion  124  is configured to be positioned over the top of the shoe  122 . Each strap  128  is threaded through eyelets  129  of the shoe  122  and is positioned in the notches  127  of the cleansing portion  124  so that each strap  128  is wrapped about the cleansing portion  124  to attach the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  120  to the shoe  122 . In one embodiment, the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  120  is provided with a platform  123  for placing a brand, team logo or other names, logos, art, words, etc., as so desired. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  15 - 16   , another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  130  is shown connected to a shoe  132 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  130  is provided with a cleansing portion  134  and a plurality of attachment platforms  136 . Each platform  136  is configured to be attachable to the laces  137  of the shoe  132 . In one embodiment, the underside or opposing side of the cleansing portion  134  includes a connecting material  138 , such as Velcro®, to correspond to a connecting material  139  positioned on a portion of each attachment platform  136  so that the cleansing portion  134  is connected to the attachment platform  136  thereby connecting the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  130  to the shoe  132 . 
     Now referring to  FIG.  17   , shown therein is an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  140  removably connected to a shoe  142 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  140  is provided with a cleansing portion  144  and an attachment platform  145 . At least one side of the cleansing portion  144  is provided with a magnetic strip  146 . In one embodiment, the magnetic strip  146  is flexible. The attachment platform  146  includes a plurality of eyelets  147  for receiving laces  148  of the shoe  142  and a magnetic portion  149  which corresponds to the magnetic strip  146  of the cleansing portion  144  so that the cleansing portion  144  is attached to the attachment platform  145  such that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  140  is connected to the shoe  142 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  18   , another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  150  is shown removably connected to a shoe  152  having laces  153 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  150  is provided with a cleansing portion  154  and an attachment platform  155 . An edge  156  of the cleansing portion  154  is provided with an elastic bind  157  for attaching to the attachment platform  155 . The attachment platform  155  includes an outer perimeter  158  having a tab portion  159 . The tab portion  159  is configured to be positioned behind the laces  153  so that the attachment platform  155  is attached to the shoe  152 . The elastic bind  157  is positioned about the outer perimeter  158  of the attachment platform  155  so that the cleansing portion  154  is connected to the attachment platform  155  such that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  150  is attached to the shoe  152 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  19   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  160  is shown connected to a shoe  162 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  160  has a first end  161 , a second end  163  and cleansing portion  164  positioned near the second end  163  of the shoe bottom cleansing portion  164 . A portion  165  of the first end  161  has a substantially similar configuration to the second end  163 . An attachment portion  166  is positioned between the first end  161  and the second end  163  such that the attachment portion  166  is configured to have a diameter less than the first end  161  and the second end  163 . The first end  161  is wrapped about the laces  167  such that the laces  167  are positioned between the portion  165  of the first end  161  and the cleansing portion  164 . A connecting material  168  is positioned on the first end  161  to correspond to a connecting material  169  on the second end  163  so that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  160  is attached to the shoe  162 . 
     Now referring to  FIGS.  20 - 21   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  170  is shown attached to a shoe  172 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  170  includes an attachment portion  173  and a plurality of cleansing portions  174 . The attachment portion  173  has at least one eyelet portion  175  for receiving laces  176  of the shoe  172  and a plurality of openings  177  for receiving the cleansing portions  174 . The attachment portion  173  is positioned under the laces  176  and the eyelet portion  175  receives the lace  176  so as to connect the attachment portion  173  to the shoe  172 . In one embodiment, the cleansing portions  174  are configured as pods which can be removed from the opening  177  and replaced with a new pod after extended use. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  22   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  180  is shown removably attachable to a shoe  182 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  180  includes a plurality of attachment members  183  and a cleansing portion  184 . In one embodiment, the plurality of attachment members  183  are elastic hoops with hooks that are attached to a plurality of eyelets  185  and the laces  186  of the shoe  182 . The cleansing portion  184  has a plurality of openings  187  wherein each opening  187  has a grommet  188  for receiving the hook  183 . The cleansing portion  184  is positioned over the laces  186  of the shoe  182 . Each of the hooks  183  is positioned in the opening  187  and is attached about the grommet  188  of the cleansing portion  184  such that the cleansing portion  184  is attached to the shoe  182 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  23   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  190  is shown removably attachable to a shoe  192 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  190  includes an attachment platform  193  and a cleansing portion  194 . The attachment platform  193  has a first end  195 , a second end  196  and an attachment portion  197  positioned therebetween. The attachment platform  193  wraps about the laces  198  of the shoe  192  such that the attachment portion  197  faces upward for receiving the cleansing portion  194 . In one embodiment, the attachment portion  197  is a plurality of fidlock clips. The underside (not shown) of the cleansing portion  194  has a plurality of connectors corresponding to the attachment portion  197  for connecting the cleansing portion  194  to the attachment platform  193  so that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  190 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  24   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  200  is shown removably connected to a shoe  202 . The shoe bottom cleaning apparatus  200  has a cleansing portion  204  and a connecting member  206  positioned on an opposing side of the cleansing portion  204 . In one embodiment, the connecting member  206  is constructed from a hook and loop or Velcro® material. Velcro® compatible shoe laces  208  are provided in the shoe  202  so that the connecting member  206  is positioned about the laces  208  so that the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  200  is connected to the shoe  202 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  25   , an embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  210  is shown attached to a shoe  212 . The shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  210  includes an attachment member  214  and a cleansing portion  216 . The attachment member  214  is connected to an ankle portion  217  of the shoe  212  and the cleansing portion  216  is connected to the attachment member  214 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  26   , another embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  220  is show attached to a shoe  222 . A Velcro® strap or material  224  is built or stitched into the shoe  222 . An example of the type of shoe  222  used in this embodiment may be Adidas® Harden Vol. 3, Nike® LeBron Soldier 12, Nike® PG 2.5, Nike® KD Trey 5 VI, and the like. The top of the Velcro® strap is constructed or provided with a cleansing portion  226  for wiping the bottom of an opposite shoe of the pair of shoes  222 . The cleansing portion  226  may also be provided as a separate sleeve that is attached to the Velcro® strap  224 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  27   , one embodiment of a shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  230   a  and  230   b  are attached to a front portion  232   a  and a front portion  232   b  of shoes  234   a  and  234   b  worn on feet  236   a  and  236   b  of an individual. To clean a bottom  238   a  of the shoe  234   a , the individual raises his/her foot  236   a  and thus, the shoe  234   a  so that the bottom  238   a  of the shoe  234   a  is positioned on a cleansing portion  240   b  of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  230   b . The individual may move the shoe  236   a  in various directions so that the bottom  238   a  of the shoe  236   a  rubs against the cleansing portion  240   b  so that the bottom  238   a  of the shoe  236   a  is cleaned. It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the same process may be conducted to clean a bottom  238   b  of the shoe  236   b  against a cleansing portion  240   a  of the shoe bottom cleansing apparatus  230   a  attached to the shoe  236   a.    
     In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present teachings. 
     The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims. The invention is defined solely by the appended claims including any amendments made during the pendency of this application and all equivalents of those claims as issued. 
     Moreover, in this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has”, “having,” “includes”, “including,” “contains”, “containing” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes, contains a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises . . . a”, “has . . . a”, “includes . . . a”, “contains . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes, contains the element. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. The terms “substantially”, “essentially”, “approximately”, “about” or any other version thereof, are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terms “coupled” and “linked” as used herein is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is configured in at least that way but may also be configured in ways that are not listed. Also, the sequence of steps in a flow diagram or elements in the claims, even when preceded by a letter does not imply or require that sequence.