Cleaning white shoes might seem challenging, but it’s pretty simple once you know the right steps. White shoes, whether they’re sneakers, dress shoes, or casual slip-ons, tend to show dirt and stains more easily than darker shoes. But their sleek, clean look makes them a favorite for many.
Here are three top methods for cleaning white shoes:
How to Clean White Shoes with Baking Soda
Keeping your white sneakers bright can be easy with baking soda, a common household item. Here’s how you can use it to clean your shoes:
Materials Needed:
– Baking soda
– Water
– A small bowl
– A soft brush or old toothbrush
– A clean cloth or sponge
– Optional: White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide (for tougher stains)
Steps:
1. Tap the shoes together to remove loose dirt and take out the laces.
2. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water to form a paste.
3. Dip your brush into the paste and gently scrub your shoes, focusing on stained areas.
4. Let the paste sit on the shoes for 30 minutes to break down dirt and stains.
5. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water and use a sponge to help remove the paste.
6. For stubborn stains, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar (or hydrogen peroxide) and 1 cup of water. Apply this mixture, scrub gently, and rinse after 30 minutes.
7. Pat the shoes down with a clean, dry cloth and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
How to Clean White Shoes with Toothpaste
Toothpaste is another handy method for cleaning white shoes:
Materials Needed:
– White, non-gel toothpaste
– An old toothbrush or soft brush
– A clean, damp cloth
Steps:
1. Remove the laces and tap the shoes to get rid of excess dirt.
2. Apply toothpaste directly to the stains using the brush.
3. Gently scrub the toothpaste into the shoes, paying special attention to the stains. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Wipe off the toothpaste with a damp cloth, ensuring no residue is left.
5. Repeat if necessary. Let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area.
How to Clean White Shoes with Detergent
Mild detergent works great for cleaning white sneakers. Here’s how you can do it:
Materials Needed:
– Mild liquid laundry detergent
– A small bowl
– Warm water
– A soft-bristled brush or soft cloth
– A clean, dry towel
Steps:
1. Tap the shoes to remove loose dirt and take out the laces.
2. Mix a few drops of detergent in warm water to create suds.
3. Dip the brush or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the shoes, focusing on stained areas.
4. Use the same mixture for the soles, scrubbing more vigorously.
5. Wipe off the soap with a clean, damp cloth.
6. Pat the shoes with a dry towel and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Additional Tips for White Leather Shoes
For white leather shoes, sprinkle baking soda inside and let them dry in a ventilated space for 12 to 24 hours before wiping them with a clean cloth. Alternatively, you can apply non-gel white toothpaste with a soft cloth, rub in a circular motion, then wipe off with a damp cloth and allow them to dry.
FAQs
Can I clean my shoes with baking soda?
Yes, baking soda is effective. Mix it with water to form a paste, apply, let it dry, then rinse thoroughly.
Can I clean my shoes with dish soap?
Yes, you can. Combine water with a few drops of mild detergent to clean. Apply, rinse, and dry the shoes.
Can I clean my white shoes with bleach?
You can, but be cautious as bleach can be harsh and may damage certain materials. Always dilute it and test on a small area first.
Conclusion
You can keep your white shoes clean by using various methods depending on the material. Baking soda and vinegar work well on canvas; detergent and warm water are great for mesh or cloth shoes. Toothpaste offers a quick solution for most white shoes. Remember to test any method on a small area first, especially for delicate materials like leather. To maintain their cleanliness, use a stain and water repellent spray regularly.