How to Clean White Shoes at Home to Make Them Look Like New
Stain removal techniques can help restore your favorite white shoes to their “fresh out of the box” look. No need for harsh chemicals or a trip to the salon, you can do it all at home.
When Shoes Speak Up Your Personality – And Also Easily “Demonstrate” Your Careless Lifestyle
White shoes are always in the top “must-have” items of every outfit. From minimal sneakers to off-white boots, they are the perfect highlight to keep the outfit bright, youthful, and easy to mix. But the truth is: they are also the shoes that are most susceptible to yellowing and revealing stains . Especially in humid, dusty weather, and dusty streets like in big cities, it is common for shoes to fade after a few times of wearing.
And you don’t have to “say goodbye” to your favorite shoes just because of a few small stains. There are extremely simple, inexpensive, easy-to-do tips at home – but help to clean white shoes , safe for the material and without damaging the shoe’s shape.
Simple and Effective Instructions for Removing Shoe Stains at Home
1. Baking Soda + Vinegar Combo – Traditional Cleaning “Hack” But Always Effective
This method works extremely well on stains on white canvas shoes or rubber soles. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda + 1 tablespoon of vinegar + 1 tablespoon of warm water into a paste. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the stained area in a circular motion. Then wipe it off with a clean cloth and let it dry naturally.
This mixture is both mildly acidic to remove stains and does not damage the fabric structure – so it is trusted by many sneakerheads.
2. Use Whitening Toothpaste (No Gel) – A Lifesaver When You Need Quick Whitening
Choose a clear, white toothpaste (preferably with baking soda). Apply directly to the stain, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Wipe off with a clean, damp cloth.
This method is extremely suitable when you need to "quickly" handle your shoes for a date, school or photo shoot. However, you should not overdo it too often because it can make the fabric drier than usual.
3. Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide – For Old Stains
If you have tried many methods but still can’t get it clean, you can use diluted hydrogen peroxide (1 part hydrogen peroxide: 2 parts water) and dab it on the stained area. Leave it for 10 minutes then use a towel to wipe it clean. This method should be used 1-2 times/month, do not use on leather or colored fabrics because it can easily fade.
Never soak the entire shoe in this solution as it will break down the glue and cause the sole to peel off.
Keep Shoes White Longer – Do It Once, Keep It Beautiful Many Times
After cleaning, you should use nano waterproof spray on your shoes to prevent water, mud or dust from sticking back. If you don’t have any, you can rub beeswax evenly or line with moisture-absorbing newspaper when not in use.
And if you truly love your shoes, consider shoe care and cleaning as part of a personal experience – where you learn to appreciate each item you own, rather than wear it and throw it away.
Related articles:
How to wash jeans to keep their shape and prevent fading
The fastest way to dry clothes in the wet season
How to wash suede jackets properly without damaging their shape