How to clean white shoes: Our footwear experts teach you how

Your footwear collection probably consists of at least one or two favorite pairs of white shoes that you love to step out in. Unfortunately, they’re magnets for not-so-fashionable dirt, scuffs and smudges. Obviously, you want to keep them looking as bright as possible for as long as you can, but how do you do it without compromising the integrity of their appearance and quality? We gathered the advice of experts to teach you exactly how to clean white shoes the right way.

Essential supplies and tools required to clean white shoes

The good news is that most of the essential supplies and tools you need are probably already in your home. “Depending on the material of the shoe you’re cleaning, you will generally need a soft-bristled brush and a microfiber or alcantara cloth,” says Fabiana Rigamonti, head designer at Aerosoles. “There are all kinds of products, polishes and cleaning wipes available, but they vary widely depending on the type of shoe you’re cleaning.”

Leslie Bateman, founder and CEO of footwear repair company Coblrshop, expounds a bit deeper on some common household supplies you can use to clean your white shoes. “Use dish soap or detergent to clean the surface of the shoes, but don’t apply them directly,” she cautions. “Instead, dilute them with water and use a brush, cloth, or sponge. White vinegar is fantastic for removing tough stains. Baking soda helps absorb odors and can be used as a mild abrasive for cleaning.”

How to clean white leather shoes

“Leather shoes should be polished every 10 to 15 wears,” says Erica Farago, VP of operations at shoe company Jack Erwin. White leather shoes may need cleaning a bit more frequently, so tidy them up more often if necessary. According to Farago, this is how you do it.

1. Use a horsehair shoe shine brush to remove any dirt. Then use a cotton cloth with medium pressure to make sure all the dirt that was loosened by the brush is wiped off.
2. Apply a shoe polish or cleaner (either with a cotton cloth or horsehair dauber) that’s appropriate for the type of leather the shoe is made of. For example, synthetic leather is chemically treated and can withstand harsher, less refined shoe polishes and waxes, while real leather requires a more refined shoe polish or wax that doesn't use chemicals and won't damage the leather.
3. Wipe off any excess product using a cotton cloth.
4. Use a clean horsehair shoe shine brush to create a nice shine.

How to clean white canvas shoes

As a note of caution, Bateman advises the following: “We generally don’t recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine, but white canvas shoes are an exception. Air dry them, though, don’t put them in the dryer.” If you prefer to clean your canvas shoes by hand, though, here’s how.

1. Remove the laces. If the insoles are removable, take them out as well.
2. Mix a small amount of soap or detergent with water in a bowl. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to help remove tough stains and odors.
3. Dip a soft-bristled brush, microfiber cloth, or sponge in the water mixture and gently scrub the shoes. Similarly wash the insoles. The shoelaces can soak.
4. Rinse with cool water.
5. Allow the shoes to air dry.

How to clean white mesh shoes

This process is identical to the method for canvas shoes, but be more careful. “The fabric in mesh shoes is perforated and more delicate, so use less pressure when scrubbing to avoid tears,” Bateman instructs.

1. Remove the laces and, if the insoles are removable, take them out, too.
2. Mix a small amount of soap or detergent with water in a bowl. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to help remove tough stains and odors.
3. Dip a soft-bristled brush, microfiber cloth, or sponge in the water mixture and gently scrub the shoes and insoles while the shoelaces soak.
4. Rinse with cool water.
5. Allow the shoes to air dry.

How to clean white suede shoes

Suede, of course, is even more delicate than mesh shoes, so Bateman stresses that they naturally require a gentler approach to avoid damaging the material.

1. Brush away surface dirt with a suede brush or soft-bristled brush. Brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede fibers.
2. Mix a small amount of white vinegar with water in a bowl or container (use a one-to-one ratio of vinegar to water). Alternatively, use a mild detergent diluted with water or a suede cleaner, according to the product instructions.
3. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently dab the stained areas of the suede. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause the stain to spread. For stubborn stains, use a suede eraser and gently buff the stain in a circular motion until it lifts.
4. After cleaning, use a dry cloth to blot away any excess moisture from the suede. Press gently without rubbing to absorb any liquid. Allow to air dry.
5. Once the shoes are dry, use the suede brush to gently brush the nap of the suede in one direction. This will help restore the texture and appearance of the suede.
6. Once the shoes are completely clean, apply a shoe protector spray designed specifically for suede.

How to clean white synthetic shoes

1. Remove the laces and insoles (if the insoles are removable).
2. Mix a small amount of soap or detergent with water in a bowl. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to help remove tough stains and odors.
3. Dip a soft-bristled brush, microfiber cloth or sponge in the water mixture and gently scrub the shoes and insoles. You can leave the shoelaces to soak.
4. Rinse with cool water.
5. Allow the shoes to air dry.

Prevention tips to keep white shoes clean

By their very nature, white shoes conspicuously show even the smallest amount of dirt, grime, scrapes and scuffs. However, you can minimize this and keep your white shoes cleaner with a few preventive measures.

Keep them covered when not in use

Even when you’re not wearing your white shoes they can still accumulate dust and dirt. Don’t just leave them bare in your closet – cover them in a shoe bag or box to protect them.

Don’t wear them in inclement weather

Elements like rain, snow and ice can wreak havoc on white shoes. Rain, for example, can leave hard-to-remove spots on mesh or canvas shoes, and ice can scratch or scuff leather shoes badly. Therefore, try to wear your white shoes in dry weather only.

Avoid wearing them in overly crowded places

White shoes in places like concerts, nightclubs and bars is a recipe for dirt disasters. They can be easily stepped on, have beverages spilled on them or get badly scuffed. So choose darker-colored shoes when going to these types of places.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How do you whiten shoes quickly?

Bateman has a somewhat unconventional remedy for this, but we all have it at home: toothpaste. “Apply a small amount of non-gel, white toothpaste to a cloth and rub it onto the surface of your shoes. Use a circular motion to gently scrub away stains and dirt. Wipe off any excess toothpaste with a damp cloth,” she says.

Does baking soda make white shoes whiter?

“It absolutely does!” Bateman exclaims. “Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive and can help lift stains and dirt, leaving your shoes looking brighter. Just make a paste using baking soda and water, then apply it to the surface of your shoes. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing off with a brush or cloth.”

How can I get my white shoes white again without bleach?

Many of your common household items can achieve this: baking soda, soap or detergent, toothpaste or vinegar all whiten your shoes without using bleach.

Can I wash shoes in a washing machine?

“It depends on the material,” Farago says. “You can't put leather or suede shoes in the washing machine because it will warp the leather outsoles, but some synthetics and textiles can be put in the washing machine. Most brands will let you know if a shoe is machine washable.”

Related: Step by step guide to clean shoes