Our shoes endure daily exposure to mud, grass, and streets, making dirt buildup and stains almost unavoidable. However, when you discover a comfortable and stylish pair, a bit of routine maintenance becomes entirely worthwhile.
How To Clean White Leather Shoes
To whiten and brighten white leather shoes, you can follow the same steps as mentioned in the leather shoe cleaning process above. For stubborn stains on white leather shoes, consider this cleaning trick: Dampen a soft-bristle brush or your fingertip in baking soda and gently rub it on the affected area. Wipe the area with a clean, wet cloth and allow it to air dry.
How To Clean White Canvas Shoes
If you have a pair of white canvas sneakers, they’re likely your go-to footwear, but you also know how quickly they can get dirty. While the temptation might be to toss them in the washing machine, it’s best to resist! The most effective cleaning method involves hand washing and air drying.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Soft-bristle brush
- Cleaning cloth
- Liquid dish soap
- Paper towel
- Water
- Hydrogen peroxide
Cleaning Steps:
- Remove and Clean the Shoelaces:
- Take off the shoelaces and clean them separately. Refer to the instructions below for detailed guidance.
- Brush Away Loose Dirt:
- Use a soft-bristle brush or cloth to sweep away any loose dirt from the outside of the shoe, including the rubber edge and tongue.
- Rinse the brush to keep it clean.
- Wash with Soapy Water:
- Mix a few drops of dish soap into a cup of warm water.
- Dip a cloth or soft brush into the soapy water and gently scrub both shoes.
- Scrub Out Stains:
- For stubborn stains, use a soft-bristle brush dipped in hydrogen peroxide.
- Alternatively, create a paste with 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of water, and scrub until the spot fades completely.
- Rinse in the Sink:
- Run the sneakers under clear water to remove any remaining dirt or soap residue.
- Stuff the Sneakers:
- Fill the sneakers with white paper towels to absorb moisture from the inside and maintain the shape of the shoe.
- Air Dry:
- Allow the shoes to air dry. If the paper towels become too wet, change or remove them to expedite the drying process.
How To Clean Running Shoes
Keeping your running and workout shoes clean is crucial, as dirt can compromise traction and leave messy footprints around your house. To avoid a lengthy floor-cleaning session, follow these simple steps:
What You’ll Need:
- Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush
- Skewer or toothpick (optional)
- Liquid dish soap
- Medium bowl
- Sponge
- Newspaper or paper towel
Cleaning Steps:
- Shoelaces:
- Remove and clean the shoelaces (see full instructions below).
- Dirt and Mud:
- Brush away dirt, mud, and grass. For heavy dirt, rinse with a hose. Use a skewer or toothpick to remove stuck-on mud from the soles if needed.
- Soapy Water Scrub:
- Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap with water in a bowl. Scrub the fabric surface of the shoes with a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush.
- Rinse with Sponge:
- Rinse the shoes clean with a warm, well-wrung sponge. Frequently rinse the sponge to remove any remaining dirt or soap.
- Drying:
- Stuff the shoes with paper towels to absorb moisture. Keep them indoors away from light and heat sources to prevent discoloration or warping of the soles.
How To Clean Faux Leather Shoes
Taking care of faux leather is simple, even though it may not be as durable as genuine leather. While it’s prone to cracking and can absorb odors over time, cleaning stains and addressing smells promptly will extend the lifespan of your faux leather shoes.
What You’ll Need:
- Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush
- Rubbing alcohol
- Soft cloth or cotton swab
- Liquid dish soap
- Water
- Paper towel
- Clean dry cloth
Cleaning Steps:
- Clean the Bottoms and Soles: Use a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to remove dirt and debris from the treaded rubber soles.
- Wipe with Soapy Water: Add a few drops of liquid dish soap to a bowl of water. Dip a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush into the soapy water and gently scrub the shoe uppers.
- Use a Clean, Wet Paper Towel: Repeat the process until all soap suds and dirt are completely removed.
- Air Dry Indoors: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause faux leather to fade, and excessive heat may lead to shrinkage.
- Condition to Prevent Cracking: Apply a small amount of unscented baby oil or coconut oil onto the shoe uppers to extend their lifespan.
- Remove Odors with Baking Soda: If the faux leather develops a bad smell, sprinkle baking soda into the shoe. Let it sit for several hours or overnight before brushing or vacuuming it away.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your shoes, whether they’re made of genuine leather, faux leather, or canvas, requires a consistent and gentle cleaning routine. Employing simple tools such as soft-bristle brushes, toothbrushes, and common household items like dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and baking soda can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors.
Taking precautionary measures, such as avoiding direct sunlight and excessive heat during the drying process, can further enhance the life of your shoes. With these easy-to-follow steps, you can keep your favorite footwear looking fresh and stylish for an extended period.
