How To Clean White Fabric Shoes the Right Way

Fabric uppers are arguably the most common shoe material, especially in white shoes. They're much easier to clean than materials like suede or leather.

So, if your favorite pair of white canvas shoes are looking a little dirty, don't worry. Our easy shoe cleaning guide provides an effective way to keep your shoes looking good for long.

Unlike suede, fabric doesn't need special care. You just need the right steps and a bit of effort.

We'll give you a step-by-step guide to make your white shoes look brand new and throw in some useful tips and tricks along the way.

Materials You Need to Clean Your White Fabric Shoes

• A mild laundry detergent or soap
• Warm water
• Toothbrush (preferably an old one)
• Clean white cloth/towel

Tools You Need to Maintain Your White Fabric Shoes

Get your sneaker cleaning kit here!

• Shoe brush (for spot cleaning)
• Shoe tree (to maintain shape)
• Deodorizing spray (to keep them smelling fresh)
• Waterproof spray (to protect from stains and water damage)

Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles

First things first, remove the laces and insoles from your shoes. This will make it easier to clean all parts of the shoe without any obstructions.

To clean white shoelaces, soak them in warm water with a mild detergent or soap for about 30 minutes. Then scrub them gently with a toothbrush and rinse thoroughly before air-drying.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Fill a bowl or bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or soap. Mix until it becomes sudsy. For any excess water stains, you can also add some white vinegar to the mixture.

Step 3: Scrub Away Dirt and Stains

Now it's time to start cleaning the white shoes. Dip the toothbrush into the sudsy water and gently scrub away the dirt and grime on the surface of the shoes. Be sure to clean every part, from the tips to the heels.

Once you're done scrubbing, use a clean white cloth to wipe away the soapy mixture from the shoes. If some stubborn stains are still visible, apply a little more detergent directly onto them and scrub again.

Rinse the shoe under warm water to ensure all the soap is gone. With this step, you will see your white shoes start to look clean once again.

Step 4: Clean the Soles

Cleaning soles can be tricky because they tend to collect a lot of dirt and grime. For this, you may need to use a brush with harder bristles or an old toothbrush. Soak the brush in the sudsy mixture and scrub away at the soles until they look clean.

You can also use a bleach solution if the soles are severely discolored. Toothpaste trick is also a great way to make them look brand new again.

Step 5: Let the Shoes Air Dry

After completing all steps of cleaning your white fabric shoes, let them air dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not use any heat sources to speed up the drying process as it may cause damage to the fabric or glue. This way, your shoes will retain their shape and structure.

Can You Put White Canvas Sneakers or Fabric Shoes in the Washing Machine?

If you are wondering whether you can freshen up your white canvas or fabric shoes in a washing machine, the answer is a resounding "Yes".

Shoes made of sturdy materials such as canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester, are typically safe for machine washing.

These durable fabrics withstand the activity inside a washing machine, ensuring that the shoes are thoroughly clean. Using a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent can help keep your white shoes clean longer. It's an easy and efficient way to clean multiple pairs at once.

However, always remember to remove laces and insoles before tossing your shoes into the machine. After washing, let them air dry. In this way, it's simple to maintain that bright, new-shoe look and keep your white shoes clean longer.

Tips and Tricks for Maintaining White Shoes

Get shoe deodorizer spray here!

Now, here are a few additional tips when it comes to cleaning white canvas shoes:

• Make a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide: This mixture is great for cleaning stubborn stains. Just mix them together into a paste, apply it to the stain, and scrub gently with a toothbrush. Rinse and repeat if needed.

Read related article: How To Clean Shoes With Baking Soda

• Use a deodorizer spray: To keep your shoes smelling fresh, use a deodorizer spray. Not only will it help to eliminate any bad odors, but it can also help to keep your shoes smelling fresh for longer.
• Apply a water repellent spray: After cleaning your shoes, consider using a water repellent spray. This can help to protect your shoes from future stains and water damage. You may need to apply the water repellent spray more than once for maximum effect.
• Place the shoes back in a safe spot: After cleaning, make sure to place your shoes back in a clean and dry spot, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, to ensure they dry correctly and maintain their shape.
• Use shoe tree inserts: These can help to maintain the shape of your shoes and prevent them from losing their structure over time.

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, this expert guide to cleaning white fabric shoes can restore your footwear to their original, dazzling condition. With a bit of effort and adherence to these steps, keep your shoes as white as snow is a breeze.

Remember, maintaining their pristine appearance is not a one-time activity, but rather a regular routine. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to clean your shoes – it's time to go from grungy to gorgeous.