If you have a pair of white shoes that are looking a little worse for wear, don’t worry! There are several simple ways to clean white shoes at home using household products.
Whether you have canvas sneakers or dress shoes, there are methods that can help you get your shoes looking clean and bright again. Here are some tips for how to clean white shoes at home.
1. Warm soapy water
Follow these steps to clean white shoes using warm soapy water:
Step 1: Fill a bowl with warm water and add about one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. Stir the water to mix in the soap.
Step 2: Dip a clean cloth or toothbrush into the soapy water, making sure to get it fully saturated.
Step 3: Gently scrub the shoes using the cloth or toothbrush, paying extra attention to any stains or dirt spots.
Step 4: Once you have scrubbed the shoes thoroughly, wipe off any excess water with a clean cloth.
Step 5: Allow the shoes to air dry for several hours. Make sure the shoes are fully dry before wearing them again to prevent any unpleasant odors from developing.
This method is good for cleaning shoes made from almost any material, including canvas, leather, and synthetic fabrics. It is a gentle yet effective way to remove dirt and stains from white shoes.
2. Toothpaste
Follow these steps to clean white shoes using toothpaste:
Step 1: Squeeze a small amount of white creamy toothpaste onto a clean cloth or sponge. Avoid using toothpaste with added colored gels, as these may discolor the shoes.
Step 2: Rub the toothpaste onto the shoes in a circular motion, paying extra attention to any heavy stains or scuff marks.
Step 3: Let the toothpaste sit on the shoes for about 10 minutes to allow it time to work its magic.
Step 4: Wipe away the toothpaste with a damp towel, Rinse the shoes with water and allow them to air dry. Repeat the process if needed.
Toothpaste can be an effective way to clean white shoes, especially if they have stubborn stains or scuff marks. Just be sure to use plain white toothpaste and not one with added color, as these may discolor the shoes.
3. Baking soda and white vinegar
Follow these steps to clean white shoes using baking soda and white vinegar:
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together one tablespoon each of hot water, white vinegar, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture forms a thick paste.
Step 2: Using a toothbrush or cloth, apply the paste to the shoes in a circular motion, making sure to cover the entire surface of the shoes.
Step 3: Allow the paste to sit on the shoes for several hours, or even overnight if the shoes are particularly dirty.
Step 4: After that use a clean cloth or brush to scrub the shoes and remove the dried paste.
Step 5: Rinse the shoes thoroughly with water and allow them to air dry.
This method is especially effective for cleaning canvas shoes, but it can also be used on other types of shoes as well.
The baking soda and vinegar work together to lift dirt and stains from the shoes, leaving them looking clean and bright. Just be sure to allow the paste to sit on the shoes for long enough to do its magic before scrubbing it off.
4. Bleach
Follow these steps to clean white shoes using bleach:
Step 1: In a well-ventilated location, mix together one part bleach and five parts water in a small bowl. Be careful not to add too much bleach, as this can cause the shoes to turn yellow and protect your skin and eyes by wearing gloves and goggles.
Step 2: Using a toothbrush or cloth, apply the bleach solution to the shoes in a circular motion, making sure to cover the entire surface of the shoes.
Step 3: Allow the bleach solution to sit on the shoes for some time.
Step 4: Use a damp cloth to wipe off the solution from the shoes.
Step 5: Allow the shoes to air dry for at least 5 hours, or until they are completely dry.
Bleach can be a very effective way to clean white fabric shoes, but it is important to use caution when handling it.
Be sure to use it in a well-ventilated location and protect your skin and eyes. Also, be careful not to use too much bleach, as it can cause the shoes to turn yellow.
Conclusion
Cleaning white shoes at home is a cost-effective and convenient way to keep your footwear looking fresh and clean. Whether you have canvas sneakers, leather dress shoes, or another type of shoe, there are several methods you can use to remove dirt, stains, and scuff marks.
Some options include using warm soapy water, toothpaste, baking soda, and white vinegar, or bleach. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and use caution when handling any harsh chemicals. With the right techniques, you can restore your white shoes.
Himanshu is a shoe enthusiast and founder of bestshoesworld.com, a website dedicated to providing in-depth reviews and information on the latest shoe trends and styles. With a passion for all things footwear, Himanshu has made it his mission to help others find the perfect pair of shoes to fit their needs and preferences.
