How to Clean White Sneakers at Home? - Complete Guide

White sneakers are a wardrobe essential. They look amazing, until they get dirty. One day, they are fresh out of the box, looking like a dream. Next thing you know, they look like they have been through a zombie disaster. Mud, Stains, Mystery marks that came out of nowhere. It happens, But guess what? You can fix it and you don’t need any fancy kit. With a few household items and a little effort, you can make your sneakers look brand new again! Lets get those white sneakers back to life.

Things You’ll need 

Before you start, grab these:

• Mild detergent

• Baking soda 

• White vinegar 

• An old toothbrush or soft brush 

• A microfiber cloth or sponge

• Warm water 

• Hydrogen peroxide (optional)

Step by Step Cleaning Guide

1. Remove laces or insoles:

Laces soak up dirt like a sponge. Take them out. Same with insoles. Soak the laces in warm soapy water while you clean the shoes. This helps clean all parts of the sneaker properly and prevents dirt from getting trapped. If the insoles smell funky, sprinkle baking soda on them and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then brush it off. 

2. Brush off loose Dirt:

Before adding water, brush off loose dirt. Use a dry toothbrush or an old cloth.This prevents mud from spreading when you start cleaning with water. If you go straight in with water, you’ll turn dirt into mud. And mud is harder to clean.

3. Make the Cleaning Mix:

Here’s the magic formula:

• 1 tablespoon of baking soda

• 1 tablespoon of white vinegar

• 1 tablespoon of water

Mix it up. It will start fizzing. That means it’s working.

4. Scrub the Sneakers

Dip the toothbrush in the mix. Start scrubbing the dirty spots in circles. Focus on the dirty areas and use circular motions. Take your time. The dirt didn’t get there in one second. It won’t leave in one second either. For deep stains, let the mix sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.

5. Wipe with a Damp Cloth

Once the dirt is gone, wipe off the leftover mix with a clean damp cloth. No need to drown your shoes in water. Just a quick wipe. If stains are still there, repeat the process.

6. Clean the Soles

Soles get the dirtiest. For them, use a mix of dish soap and warm water. Scrub with the toothbrush. For stubborn marks, use a magic eraser if you have one.

7. Dry Properly

Never put white sneakers in direct sunlight. They turn yellow. Instead, stuff them with paper towels to soak up moisture. Leave them in a cool, airy place to dry. Laces?  Take them out of the soapy water, rinse, and let them air dry.

Bonus Tips to Keep White Sneakers Clean

• Spray them with a water repellent: Keeps dirt away

• Use a sneaker wipe after each wear: Prevents stains from setting

• Store them in a box or dust bag: Less exposure to dirt

White sneakers don’t have to look dirty forever. With these easy tricks, you can keep them looking brand new. Now, go clean those sneakers.

FAQs

1. Can I put white sneakers in the washing machine?

Yes, but it’s risky.
Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and put them in a pillowcase.
And never put them in the dryer. They’ll shrink or get ruined.

2. What if my sneakers turn yellow?

Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, apply, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wipe.
This usually brings back the white.

3. How often should I clean my white sneakers?

Depends on how much you wear them.
Once a week for regular wear.
After every use if you’re extra careful.

4. Can I use toothpaste to clean white sneakers?

Yes, but make sure it’s white toothpaste, not gel.
Rub it on, let it sit, scrub, then wipe off.

5. What’s the easiest way to keep sneakers white?

Prevention.
Spray them with a protective spray, and wipe off dirt as soon as you see it.