How to Clean White Shoes

White shoes are timeless. Whether you’re rocking white sneakers, canvas slip-ons, or crisp leather trainers, they instantly elevate any outfit with a fresh and clean look. But there’s one downside—keeping them spotless. White shoes are magnets for dirt, scuffs, and stains, which makes learning how to clean white shoes an essential skill for anyone who wants to keep their footwear looking brand new.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through proven cleaning methods, household hacks, and preventive care tips so your white shoes never lose their shine. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to clean white shoes—no matter what material they’re made of.

Why White Shoes Get Dirty So Easily

Before we jump into the “how,” let’s quickly cover the “why.” Understanding what makes white shoes stain so easily can help you better care for them.

• Light color absorbs stains – Any small speck of dirt, coffee spill, or grass mark stands out more on white surfaces.
• Common shoe materials – Most white shoes are made of canvas, leather, or mesh, which are porous and absorb dirt quickly.
• Everyday wear – Unlike black or brown shoes, white shoes show signs of daily use almost immediately.

The good news? Once you know how to clean white shoes properly, these issues won’t be a big deal.

Things You’ll Need to Clean White Shoes

Before starting, gather a few simple cleaning supplies. Most of them are everyday items you already have at home.

• Mild detergent or dish soap
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Old toothbrush or soft brush
• Magic eraser (optional)
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Warm water
• Toothpaste (non-gel, white)

Now that you’re ready, let’s break down the best cleaning methods based on shoe material.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes

Canvas sneakers like Converse or Vans are extremely popular but also get dirty quickly. Luckily, they’re one of the easiest shoe types to clean.

Method 1: Soap and Water

1. Remove laces and insoles.
2. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent.
3. Dip an old toothbrush in the soapy water and scrub the shoes in circular motions.
4. Rinse with a damp cloth and let them air dry (avoid direct sunlight to prevent yellowing).

Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and 1 cup of warm water.
2. Apply the mixture with a brush and scrub thoroughly.
3. Rinse off with a damp cloth.
4. Let the shoes air dry for a few hours.

This is one of the most effective tricks for how to clean white shoes naturally without harsh chemicals.

How to Clean White Leather Shoes

Leather is a bit trickier because it can’t be soaked in water like canvas. Here’s the best way:

1. Wipe off dirt with a dry cloth.
2. Mix a few drops of mild soap in warm water.
3. Dip a cloth into the soapy solution and wipe the surface.
4. Use a magic eraser for scuffs.
5. Finish by drying with a clean towel.

Leather conditioners can also help restore shine after cleaning.

How to Clean White Mesh Shoes

Mesh shoes, like running sneakers, are delicate. Scrubbing too hard can damage the material, so you need a gentler approach.

1. Remove the insoles and laces.
2. Mix warm water with a small amount of detergent.
3. Dip a soft brush or cloth and gently scrub the mesh.
4. Rinse carefully with a damp cloth.
5. Air dry—never put mesh shoes in the dryer.

Can You Put White Shoes in the Washing Machine?

Many people wonder how to clean white shoes faster, and the washing machine seems like the easiest method. But should you?

• Canvas shoes – Safe to machine wash, but use cold water and put them in a laundry bag.
• Leather shoes – Avoid machine washing; it can ruin the material.
• Mesh shoes – Hand wash is safer, but some can go in the machine on a gentle cycle.

Pro tip: Always air dry after washing. Never put white shoes in the dryer, as the heat can cause damage and yellowing.

Household Hacks for Cleaning White Shoes

Sometimes you don’t need fancy cleaners. Here are quick household hacks for how to clean white shoes at home:

• Toothpaste – Apply non-gel white toothpaste on stains, scrub with a brush, and wipe clean.
• Baking Soda Paste – Mix baking soda with water to form a paste and scrub stubborn marks.
• Magic Eraser – Works great for cleaning rubber soles and scuffs.
• Hydrogen Peroxide – Mix with baking soda for tough stains (but avoid on delicate fabrics).

How to Clean White Shoe Laces

Shoelaces are often the dirtiest part of white shoes. To clean them:

1. Remove the laces.
2. Soak them in warm water with detergent for 30 minutes.
3. Scrub lightly if needed.
4. Rinse and air dry.

This simple step makes a huge difference in how fresh your shoes look.

How to Prevent White Shoes from Getting Dirty

Now that you know how to clean white shoes, let’s talk about prevention. Keeping them clean in the first place will save you time.

• Apply a water and stain repellent spray before wearing.
• Store shoes in a clean, dry place.
• Avoid muddy or wet surfaces.
• Wipe off dirt as soon as you see it.
• Rotate shoes so they don’t wear out quickly.

A little care goes a long way in keeping your white shoes looking brand new.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning White Shoes

Even with the best intentions, some mistakes can ruin your shoes.

• Using bleach on canvas – It can turn shoes yellow.
• Machine drying – Heat damages glue and fabric.
• Scrubbing too hard – Can weaken fabric and cause holes.
• Skipping protection – Not using repellent spray means shoes get dirty faster.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your cleaning efforts last longer.

Final Thoughts on How to Clean White Shoes

White shoes will always require extra care, but with the right cleaning methods, they can look fresh for years. Whether they’re canvas sneakers, leather trainers, or mesh runners, the steps in this guide give you everything you need to know about how to clean white shoes safely and effectively.

Remember—regular maintenance is key. Instead of waiting until your shoes look too dirty, give them a quick clean every week. By doing so, you’ll extend their life, keep them looking stylish, and avoid the frustration of permanent stains.

Andrew Mitchell

About

Huston Douthit is a distinguished figure in the world of furniture design, with a decade of expertise creating innovative and sustainable furniture solutions. His professional focus lies in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, fostering designs that are both practical and environmentally conscious. As the author of Fruniturix, Huston delves into the art and science of furniture-making, inspiring artisans and industry professionals alike.

Education

• RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia) Associate Degree in Design (Furniture)
  • Focus on sustainable design, industry-driven projects, and practical craftsmanship.
  • Gained hands-on experience with traditional and digital manufacturing tools, such as CAD and CNC software.
• Nottingham Trent University (United Kingdom) Bachelor’s in Furniture and Product Design (Honors)
  • Specialized in product design with a focus on blending creativity with production techniques.
  • Participated in industry projects, working with companies like John Lewis and Vitsoe to gain real-world insights.

Publications and Impact

In Fruniturix, Huston shares his insights on furniture design processes, materials, and strategies for efficient production. His writing bridges the gap between artisan knowledge and modern industry needs, making it a must-read for both budding designers and seasoned professionals.