White shoes are essential shoes to have in your wardrobe but they also tend to get dirty quickly. Fortunately, with the right cleaning techniques, you can restore your white sneakers or shoes to their original shine. In this article, we will give you a complete guide to cleaning your white shoes and keeping them looking spotless.
1. Necessary materials
Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- A soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush
Warm water
- Mild soap or laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- An old toothbrush
- White vinegar
- A microfiber cloth
2. Remove the coarse dirt
Start by removing dirt and residue from your shoes by tapping them together to remove excess dust and dirt. Next, use a soft-bristled brush or soft cloth to gently scrub the surface of your shoes and remove stubborn stains.
3. Basic Cleaning
To clean your white shoes, mix warm water with mild soap or laundry detergent to create a gentle cleaning solution. Soak your cloth or brush in this solution, then gently scrub the surface of your shoes using circular motions. Focus on the dirtiest areas and use a toothbrush to reach hard-to-reach corners.
4. Eliminate stubborn stains
If some stains persist, you can use baking soda to remove them. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with a little water, then apply it to the stains, scrubbing them gently with a toothbrush. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.
5. Blanch the soles
To whiten the soles of your white shoes, you can use a solution of white vinegar diluted in lukewarm water. Apply the solution to the soles using a microfiber cloth and leave to act for a few minutes before rinsing with clean water.
6. Drying and maintenance
Once finished cleaning, let your shoes air dry, away from direct heat from the sun. Also avoid using a hair dryer, as excessive heat can damage the material of your shoes. Once dry, you can apply a waterproofing protectant to extend the life of your white shoes and protect them against future stains.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your white shoes crisp and ready to wear for any occasion. Remember to clean your shoes regularly to keep them looking new and prevent dirt buildup.