How to Clean White Shoes So They Look Brand New

White shoes are a wardrobe staple. However, they can be challenging to keep clean because they are so susceptible to showing dirt, oil, scuffs, and stains.

Whether made of canvas, leather, suede, or synthetic materials, maintaining their pristine condition requires a bit of effort and smart techniques. So, how do you clean white shoes so they sparkle like new?

How to Clean White Shoes

There are various methods for cleaning white shoes, but the best will depend on several factors, including the type of shoes, material, and extent of stain.

Some shoes made of canvas or fabric can be cleaned with a mild detergent in a gentle agitator cycle in the washing machine. Suedes and leathers can’t handle the water, so they must be tackled with a different method.

For spot cleaning, always test cleaning methods or products on a hidden area of the shoe first before applying them to visible areas. If you need to know how to clean white shoes so they sparkle like new, here are a few safe and effective tips and tricks.

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White Canvas and Fabric Shoes

Before starting, remove the shoe laces and wash them separately by either hand washing or putting them in a mesh laundry bag. To clean the rest of the shoe, use any of the following methods:

• Mild laundry detergent and warm water: Mix a small amount of the soap or mild cleansing detergent with warm water in a bowl. Dip a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge into the solution and gently wipe down the surface of the shoes. Focus on any particularly dirty areas, using an old toothbrush to scrub any stubborn spots. Rinse in clean water and wipe away any soapy residue. Allow the shoes to air-dry completely before wearing them.
• Baking soda and vinegar: Create a paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda and two tablespoons of white vinegar with a cup of warm water. Use a brush or an old toothbrush to apply the paste to the shoes, scrubbing gently in circular motions. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water and allowing the shoes to air dry. This method helps to lift stains and restore the brightness of the shoes.
• Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda: 3% hydrogen peroxide helps remove stains and brighten shoes. Combine one tablespoon of baking soda, another tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide, and a small amount of water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to your white shoes with a brush, scrubbing lightly to cover all dirty areas. Let the mixture sit on the shoes for about 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water or leaving them to air-dry in the sun. Later, brush off the paste once the shoes are dry.
• Toilet paper: Layer water-soaked sheets of toilet paper over your shoe, paper-mache style, mummifying them to allow them to dry for 12 hours before peeling away the strips. This method is effective in eliminating stubborn stains often left behind after cleaning.

White Suede Shoes

Avoid using water-based cleaners, as they can cause discoloration and damage to the suede. Instead, use commercial suede cleaners or any of the following methods:

• White Vinegar: Use a suede brush to remove grime and dirt from the surface. For stains, dab a small amount of white vinegar onto a cloth and gently blot the stained area. Be sure not to soak the suede. Once the stain is lifted, use a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Allow the shoes to air dry thoroughly. Then, use a suede brush to restore the nap of the material.
• Micellar water: While primarily designed to cleanse the skin, this water is also gentle enough to use on leather. It pulls oil, dirt, and other substances from the surface, leaving your shoes clean and sparkling. It works well on leather and suede shoes.

White Synthetic Shoes

Synthetic materials are usually the easiest to clean but require their own careful approach.

• Soap and water: Your first line of defense is warm water and soap. Mix liquid soap in a bowl with warm water. Use a non-abrasive sponge to apply the solution to any stains or scuffs. Most should wash right away, otherwise they easily wipe off with a microfiber cloth for drying.
• Toothpaste: Use a gentle brush—a soft or old toothbrush is perfect for getting into creases and seams. Apply a thin layer of toothpaste and a bit of water and, in a circular motion, scrub the shoes. Use a clean washcloth or light sponge to remove any paste left over.

White Leather Shoes

These require more TLC than canvas since the material is delicate and can lose shape if wet. Before starting, place a shoe tree inside your shoes or stuff them with newspapers to maintain shape.

• Mild soap and water: Combine a few drops of mild soap and warm water. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the solution. Gently wipe down the surface of the shoes. Focus on any particularly dirty areas, using a toothbrush to scrub any stubborn spots. Rinse the cloth in clean water before wiping away any soap residue. Let shoes air dry completely before wearing them.
• Magic erasers: Magic erasers are a convenient and effective tool for cleaning white leather shoes. Dampen the magic eraser and gently rub it over the dirty areas of the shoes. The eraser’s micro-abrasive texture helps to lift away dirt and scuffs without damaging the material. This method is quick and easy, making it perfect for regular maintenance and touch-ups.
• Commercial leather cleaners: These are specifically designed to clean and protect white leather shoes. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results.

Tips for Keeping White Shoes Clean

Of course, white shoes are bound to get dirty eventually, but there are many ways to prolong the inevitable. Preventative measures include spraying down new shoes with a protector spray.

• Pre-Treat with Commercial Protector Spray: Giving your new white shoes a once-over right after purchase can ensure that any future dirt stays just on the surface, where it is easily washed off.
• Use Shoe or Sneaker Wipes to Spot Clean: Shoe wipes, bleach pens, and even chemical-free baby wipes can be your first line of defense, especially from dark spills like wine, juice, or tomato sauce. But normal baby wipes can dry out leather and suede, leaving cracks and discoloration.