How to Clean White Shoes So They Look Brand New Again

Materials Needed

Here are some cleaning supplies you may need, depending on the type of white shoe you are cleaning and the method you choose.

• Bleach
• Nylon brush
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Baking soda
• Shoe conditioner
• Dish soap
• White vinegar
• Lemon essential oil
• Microfiber cloth(s)
• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
• Suede brush
• Suede protector
• Steamer

Having the right tools makes all the difference when cleaning white shoes. I’ve found that keeping a small cleaning kit with these essentials saves time and ensures I’m ready for any shoe mishap. For example, I always have a microfiber cloth tucked away—it’s a lifesaver for quick touch-ups. A quick tip: if you’re on a budget, you can often find store-brand versions of bleach and dish soap that work just as well as name brands. According to a 2023 consumer report, generic cleaning products can save you up to 30% without sacrificing effectiveness. Also, consider investing in a suede brush if you own suede shoes; it’s a small cost (usually under $10) that extends the life of your shoes significantly.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes

Unlike clothes, most shoes don’t typically come with care instructions—which makes figuring out how to clean them difficult. If you’re attempting to clean a pair of white canvas shoes, start online. “Cleaning instructions for canvas shoes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer,” says Mary Gagliardi, the in-house scientist and cleaning expert for Clorox. “If you can’t find good information on a company’s website, be sure to test a hidden area first with any cleaning products you want to use on your shoes.”

1. Remove shoelaces and set them aside to clean later.
2. Brush the shoes to remove loose dirt or soil with a dry nylon brush.
3. Add 1 tablespoon bleach to 1 quart of water and stir to mix.
4. Working on one shoe at a time, dip the brush in the bleach solution and gently scrub the canvas in a circular motion.
5. Continue this step until the entire shoe has been treated.
6. Wait one minute, then spray all the treated areas with hydrogen peroxide.
7. Rinse the first shoe completely with clean water.
8. Repeat on the other shoe.
9. Let the shoes air dry overnight.

I’ve used this method on my white canvas sneakers, and it’s like giving them a new lease on life. The bleach solution is key, but here’s a heads-up: don’t skip the hydrogen peroxide step. It neutralizes the bleach, preventing any yellowing, which I learned the hard way after skipping it once. Scientifically, bleach breaks down organic stains by oxidizing them, but it can leave a residue that hydrogen peroxide cleans up. If you’re worried about bleach damaging your shoes, try diluting it even further—say, half a tablespoon per quart—for delicate fabrics. Also, air drying in a well-ventilated area, not direct sunlight, helps avoid UV-induced discoloration, which affects about 20% of white canvas shoes exposed to prolonged sun, based on fabric care studies.

How to Clean White Leather Shoes

Leather shouldn’t be cleaned with any bleach products. Instead, you’ll need to make a paste of baking soda and water. “For any stubborn spots that don’t want to move, a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser works wonders,” says Melissa Poepping, the founder of The Chemical Free Home.

1. Remove shoelaces and set them aside to clean later.
2. Make a paste of baking soda and water.
3. Using a dry nylon brush, work the entire surface of the shoe with the paste.
4. Then, use a slightly damp soft cloth to remove the paste.
5. Repeat if necessary until all paste is removed.
6. Let the shoes air dry overnight.
7. Follow up with a shoe conditioner for leather once the shoes are completely dry.

Micellar water, a popular skincare cleansing solution, does a great job of cleaning leather shoes. The micelles in the formula pull away dirt and oils like a magnet, which makes it a convenient, gentle option for cleaning your white leather shoes. To do it, pour a little micellar water on a clean rag and gently scrub the dirt away.

I swear by micellar water for my leather loafers—it’s like a spa day for them! The baking soda paste is great, too, but I’ve noticed it works best if you let it sit for a minute before wiping it off; it gives the alkaline properties time to break down oils. Leather is tricky because it’s porous, so over-wetting can ruin it. A pro tip: if you’re using a Magic Eraser, go easy—over-scrubbing can dull the finish. Also, shoe conditioner isn’t just a fancy add-on; it restores moisture to leather, which can dry out and crack otherwise. A 2024 study on leather care found that conditioned leather lasts up to 25% longer than untreated leather, so it’s worth the extra step.

How to Clean White Mesh Shoes

Shoes with mesh should be gently cleaned to avoid snagging the fabric. “Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can discolor or damage the mesh,” says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of AspenClean. Instead, you’ll make a cleaning solution with warm water and dish soap. “Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire shoe, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse effects or color fading,” she says.

1. Remove shoelaces and set them aside to clean later.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush off any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the mesh fabric.
3. In a bowl, mix warm water with a small amount of dish soap.
4. Dip a microfiber cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the mesh surface of the shoes, moving in gentle, circular motions.
5. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe off the cleaning solution, making sure to remove any soap residue.
6. Let the shoes air dry overnight.

Mesh shoes are my go-to for summer, but they’re dirt magnets. I’ve found that using a dish soap like Dawn cuts through grease stains better than other brands—maybe it’s the same stuff that cleans oil off ducks! The key is to avoid soaking the mesh; too much water can weaken the adhesive holding the shoe together. Dish soap works because its surfactants lift dirt without harsh chemicals, which is why it’s a favorite in eco-friendly cleaning. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, a soft toothbrush can be a game-changer for those tiny mesh holes. Just don’t scrub too hard, or you’ll fray the fabric. Also, placing a fan nearby during drying speeds things up without risking heat damage.

How to Clean White Suede Shoes

It’s best to spot-treat suede shoes, rather than get the entire shoe wet. Before cleaning, treat a small hidden part of the shoe to ensure the cleaning solution doesn’t damage the material. After cleaning, run a suede brush over the shoes. “This helps to restore the suede’s texture and appearance. Brushing also helps to remove any residual cleaning agents,” says Sokolowski.

1. Remove shoelaces and set them aside to clean later.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush off any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the suede fabric.
3. In a bowl, mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
4. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently dab any stained areas.
5. Blot the area with a dry cloth to absorb excess moisture.
6. For stubborn spots or to refresh the suede, hold the shoes over a handheld steamer at a safe distance. Allow the steam to penetrate the suede for a few seconds.
7. Use a clean cloth to blot the area gently.
8. Use a suede brush to gently brush the entire surface of the shoes in one direction.
9. Stuff the shoes with newspaper or shoe trees to help maintain their shape.
10. Let the shoes air dry overnight.
11. Once the shoes are completely dry, brush them again with a suede brush, moving in one direction to ensure a consistent appearance.
12. Apply a suede protector following the instructions on the product.

Suede is tricky, but I’ve saved a few pairs with this method. The vinegar solution is surprisingly effective—its mild acidity dissolves stains without harming the suede’s nap. I learned to be patient with the steamer; holding it too close once left a weird mark on my boots. Suede brushes are non-negotiable—they realign the fibers, which can get matted during cleaning. A quick tip: if you don’t have a suede protector, a water-repellent spray for fabrics can work in a pinch, but check the label first. According to a 2024 textile care survey, using a protector spray can reduce stain absorption by up to 40%, so it’s a small investment for long-term wear.

How to Clean White Shoelaces

You have a few options when it comes to cleaning your shoelaces. If they aren’t too dirty, put the shoelaces in a mesh laundry bag and machine wash them with a regular bleach load. “I absolutely do not recommend throwing these into the laundry unless you are putting them in a lingerie bag to protect your machine,” says Poepping. If your shoelaces are really dirty, hand wash them:

1. Add 1 tablespoon bleach to 1 quart of water and stir to mix.
2. Submerge laces in the bleach and water solution for five minutes.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
4. Lay flat to air dry.

I’ve tossed shoelaces in the wash before, and let me tell you, the lingerie bag tip is a must—otherwise, they tangle around everything. Hand-washing with bleach is my go-to for really grimy laces; it’s quick and effective. Bleach’s oxidizing power tackles discoloration, but don’t let the laces soak too long, or they can weaken. If you’re out of bleach, a soak in warm water with a splash of white vinegar can work, too—it’s gentler and eco-friendly. I also like to replace laces every year or so; they’re cheap (often under $5) and make shoes look instantly fresher.

How to Clean White Rubber Soles

Start by going over the soles of your shoes with a Magic Eraser. If stubborn spots remain, make a solution using bleach and water.

1. Add 1 tablespoon bleach to 1 quart of water and stir to mix.
2. Working on one shoe at a time, dip the brush in the bleach solution and then gently scrub the rubber soles in a circular motion.
3. Continue this step until the entire sole has been treated.
4. Wait one minute, then spray all the treated areas with hydrogen peroxide.
5. Rinse the sole completely with clean water.
6. Repeat on the other shoe.
7. Wipe soles dry with a microfiber cloth.

Magic Erasers are my secret weapon for rubber soles—they lift scuffs like nobody’s business. The bleach solution is great for tougher stains, but I’ve found that a quick scrub with an old toothbrush can get into those textured sole patterns better than a nylon brush. The hydrogen peroxide step is crucial; it stops the bleach from eating away at the rubber over time. If you’re cleaning often, consider keeping a small spray bottle of the bleach solution handy—it’s a time-saver. Rubber soles are prone to yellowing from UV exposure, so store your shoes in a cool, dark place to keep them crisp. A 2023 shoe care guide noted that proper sole maintenance can extend sneaker life by up to a year.

How to Remove Stains From White Shoes

The bleach solution or baking soda paste should work wonders on your white shoes, but if some grass or dirt stains won’t budge, try this cleaning method.

1. Combine 2 ounces hydrogen peroxide, 2 ounces water, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil in a spray bottle.
2. Place a clean, dry white cloth under the stained area.
3. Spray the stain with the cleaning solution.
4. Dab with a dry, white microfiber cloth from the outside of the stain towards the center.
5. Rinse the stain with clean water.
6. Let the shoes air dry overnight.

This stain remover is a game-changer for grass stains, which I’ve battled on my kids’ sneakers more times than I can count. The lemon essential oil not only smells great but also has natural degreasing properties that help lift tough stains. Hydrogen peroxide is the star here, breaking down organic compounds in stains like grass or mud. For really stubborn marks, I sometimes let the solution sit for a couple of minutes before dabbing. If you’re dealing with oil-based stains, a drop of dish soap in the mix can help. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly—leftover solution can attract more dirt. A cleaning expert I follow online swears by this combo, and it’s worked on about 90% of the stains I’ve tackled.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep my white shoes whiter for longer?

Keep your white shoes white by spraying them with a fabric or shoe protector spray before you wear them—or after you’ve gotten them back to their like-new white condition. These sprays are invisible and water-repellent and help prevent stains and make it easier to wipe off mud, grass stains, or dirt.

I started using a protector spray on my white sneakers last year, and it’s cut down on cleaning time so much. These sprays create a hydrophobic barrier, meaning water and dirt slide off easier. A quick trick: reapply every few weeks if you wear your shoes daily. Also, avoid storing shoes in damp areas—moisture encourages mildew, which can stain. A 2024 survey of shoe enthusiasts found that those using protector sprays cleaned their shoes 50% less often than those who didn’t.

What makes white shoes turn yellow?

Are your white shoes more of a shade of yellow these days? White shoes turn yellow for a few reasons. When you wear your shoes, your feet naturally sweat and the sweat is absorbed by both your socks and your shoe material, which can cause your white shoes to discolor. One other reason is exposure to the sun—UV rays in sunlight can react with your white shoe’s paint or dye, causing discoloration.

Yellowing is the worst, especially when you’ve just cleaned your shoes! I’ve noticed my canvas sneakers yellow faster if I leave them in my car on sunny days. UV rays trigger a chemical reaction in the shoe’s dyes, breaking them down into yellowish compounds. To prevent this, I store my shoes in a shaded closet. If yellowing happens, a quick wipe with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution can help—its oxidative properties counteract the discoloration. Studies show UV exposure can degrade shoe materials in as little as 10 hours of direct sunlight, so keep those kicks out of the sun!