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How to Clean White Shoes

Expert Advice

How to Clean White Shoes

Jan 22, 2024

You already know that wearing white year-round (yes, even after Labor Day) is totally acceptable. But when it comes to white footwear, the struggle is real: White shoes look great when you pull them out of the box, but keeping them clean isn’t always an easy feat. One game of baseball in the grass, a rainy day at school or a cooking incident, and you have stains or splatters on those snow-white sneaks that mar the surface. 

Fortunately, we’ve got the tea on how to clean white tennis shoes, whether you’re trying to keep those Jordans, Air Force 1s or All Stars pristine.

How to Clean White Leather Shoes

How to Clean White Leather Shoes

We love the look of leather, particularly that crisp, fresh-from-the-sneaker-box white leather. (We can smell it now!) Here’s how to keep white leather kicks clean

  • Remove laces and insoles, and wash them separately. 
  • Use a soft-bristle brush to wipe away dirt and debris, taking care to get in the crevices and perforations. 
  • Dip a microfiber cloth in a lukewarm water and mild detergent or soap solution (baby shampoo works great), and wipe down without saturating the sneaker. 
  • Use a leather cleaner or baking soda-water paste, and gently apply to any stains, letting it sit at least 15 to 20 minutes before gently scrubbing away with a damp cloth. 
  • Let the shoe air-dry away from direct sunlight, and stuff the shoes with newspaper, a shoe tree or other crease protector. 
  • Finish with a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and resistant to cracking.

How to Clean White Fabric Shoes

You’re well aware that shoes with a woven material tend to attract dirt, grime and stains. Whether you’re cleaning white mesh shoes or canvas, you’ll need to put in a bit more work to ensure your white shoes remain, well, white. 

  • Remove laces and insoles and hand-wash separately. 
  • If you have stains, go ahead and pre-treat them, using a paste of baking soda and water and letting it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Or use a stain remover made for your shoe material. 
  • If you’re dealing with canvas, gently hand-wash your shoes, scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush or soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water-mild detergent solution or a cleanser made for your sneaker material. If you have mesh or a tightly woven knit, use a sponge to avoid tearing or snagging the fabric. 
  • Press the shoes gently with a towel to absorb water. 
  • Air-dry white sneakers, stuffing them with newspaper or clean, dry towels away from direct sunlight or heat. 
  • Spray shoes with a fabric protector.

How to Clean White Shoelaces

How to Clean White Shoelaces

White shoelaces are even easier to clean than shoes. And as an added bonus, if you can’t get them snow white again, it’s time for a new pair! 

  • Detangle and untie laces.
  • Soak them in a mild soap or detergent and water mixture for about 30 minutes.
  • Gently remove any stains with a soft cloth.
  • Wring them out and lay them flat to air-dry.

Whether it’s Easter or peak winter season, Hibbett | City Gear has year-round white shoes, perfect for every member of the fam. Shop our white sneakers — and our shoe care collection to help protect kicks — both online and in stores!

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