How to clean white shoes in an eco friendly manner

October 27, 2024
by Brodie Cook

White shoes are timeless. They have a way of making any outfit look clean and fresh, making them perfect for almost any occasion. They look great when they’re brand new, but keeping that fresh-out-of-the-box look is not easy. Even one small scuff can get them dirty and give them a messy look. Most of us have tried everything from bleach to chemical cleaners. But here’s the thing, using these products can do more harm than good.

This blog post will be about cleaning and keeping your shoes, giving them a brand-new look.

Why Traditional Methods Are Problematic

Many people turn to strong chemicals like bleach, alcohol or even traditional soap to make their white shoes look new again. But these substances are too harsh for most shoe materials. When you use them, they can damage the fabric and cause it to break down. This is why you may notice yellow stains or even see the fabric start to tear. Bleach, for example, can remove stains quickly, but it also eats away at the fibres over time.

Another big problem is what happens after you wash these chemicals off. They don’t just disappear. Instead, they go down the drain and enter our water systems. These chemicals can build up and harm fish, plants, and other wildlife. Over time, they make the water less healthy and disrupt the ecosystem.

So while it is easy to clean with these chemicals, the long-term damage they cause isn’t worth it. That’s why it’s better to use safer, natural methods that are gentler on your shoes and the planet.

Methods for Cleaning White Shoes

You don’t need harsh chemicals to make your shoes look new again. Many natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and laundry detergent sheets can do the job just as well.

These options are safe for both your shoes and the planet, making them a great choice for regular cleaning.

Here’s a step-by-step on how to create each solution. what tools you’ll need, and a simple breakdown of how to clean each part of your shoes.

Step 1: Create your cleaning solution

Lucent Globe Detergent Solution:
Dissolve a small piece of a Lucent Globe detergent sheet in a cup of water. This gentle, enzyme-based solution is ideal for washing delicate or sensitive materials, as well as providing a safer deep clean for machine-washable shoes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Paste:
Mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar in a small bowl until you get a thick, smooth paste. This is great for breaking down tough stains and deodorizing fabric and canvas shoes.
Lemon Juice and Water Solution:
Combine 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice with 1 cup of water. This mixture acts as a natural brightener and is perfect for removing light stains on synthetic shoes and brightening canvas.
Cornstarch Spot Treatment Paste:
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with just enough water to form a thick paste. This paste works best for small, oily stains or for spot cleaning on all shoe types.

With your cleaning solution ready, here’s a detailed guide on how to clean each part of your shoes, focusing on using the right techniques and tools. Follow these steps to tackle the fabric uppers, rubber soles, and spot stains, ensuring you get the best results while avoiding damage.

TIP: We've got a guide on how to clean shoes with a washing machine.

Step 2: Cleaning the Fabric Uppers (White Sneakers, Canvas, Mesh, and Cloth)

Before applying any cleaning solution, remove the laces to make it easier to reach all areas. This step prevents water or cleaning solution from soaking into the laces and causing additional stains. Set the laces aside and treat them separately

Brush Away Loose Dirt:
Use a dry old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush to gently remove loose dirt and dust from the surface. This prevents dirt from spreading around when you apply your cleaning solution.
Apply the chosen Solution:
Use a brush or soft cloth to apply your chosen solution to the stained areas. If using a paste (like baking soda or cornstarch), use small circular motions to work it into the fabric. If using a liquid solution (like lemon juice or detergent sheet solution), dab gently to avoid over-wetting.
Let It Sit:
Leave the solution on the fabric for about 10-15 minutes to give it time to break down the stains and lift dirt.
Wipe Clean:
Use a damp towel to gently wipe away the solution. Avoid scrubbing hard to protect the fabric.
Dry Thoroughly:
Pat the shoes dry with a soft towel and allow them to air dry in a shaded spot. Direct sunlight can cause the fabric to yellow over time.

Step 3: Cleaning Rubber Soles and Tough Spots

Apply the Solution to the Soles:
Use a small brush to scrub the solution onto the rubber soles. Whether using a paste or liquid, be more firm when cleaning the soles, as they can handle more pressure.
Scrub Thoroughly:
Use back-and-forth motions to work the cleaner into the soles, paying extra attention to scuffs and deep grime.
Rinse and Wipe:
Use a damp cloth to remove the solution. Rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving any sticky residue.
Pat Dry:
Use a towel to dry the soles and make sure no water seeps into the fabric sections.

Step 4: Spot Cleaning Small Stains

Target the Stain Directly:
Apply your chosen solution (e.g., a small amount of cornstarch paste or baking soda) directly to the stained spot. Always gently rub it and be patient.
Leave to Dry:
Allow the solution to dry completely. For paste-based options, this could take 15-30 minutes depending on the size of the stain.
Brush Off:
Once dry, gently brush off the residue using an old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush. This should lift the stain along with the dried cleaner.
Wipe and Check:
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the area and check if the stain is gone. Repeat if necessary.

Tips For Keeping Your White Shoes Clean

Keeping white shoes clean can be tricky. They show every speck of dirt. The best way to protect them is by preventing dirt in the first place.

When dirt does appear, clean it quickly. Don’t wait for stains to set in. Wipe them with a mild solution as soon as you notice a mark. This prevents buildup and keeps them looking fresh longer. For regular touch-ups, a simple baking soda paste works well on fabric shoes.

Storing your shoes properly also helps. Keep them in a dry, cool spot. Avoid damp areas, which can cause yellowing and mould. If they get wet, stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture and keep their shape.

For deeper cleaning, consider using Lucent Globe’s detergent sheets. They’re safe for fabrics. Use them every few months to restore your shoes without using harsh chemicals.

Lastly, think about when to wear your white shoes. Avoid muddy or rainy days. If you keep them out of dirty conditions, they’ll stay cleaner for longer. With these tips, you can keep your white shoes looking bright and new.