5 Quick and Effective Ways to Clean White Leather Shoes
White shoes are incredibly versatile and can complement any outfit, but keeping them spotless and clean is a challenge, especially if you wear them regularly outdoors.
Dirt, grime, and stains accumulate easily on white leather shoes, and they can be harder to clean than fabric shoes since they can’t be put in the washing machine. Additionally, using chemicals like ammonia can cause discoloration.
Timely cleaning of white leather shoes is essential to prevent fading and keep them looking new. As a natural material, leather requires extra care and thoughtful cleaning methods.
The good news is you can clean white leather shoes using natural methods at home with household products like toothpaste, white vinegar, and more.
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How to Clean White Leather Shoes at Home (Method That Works)
Required Tools:
- Soft bristle brush
- Microfiber towel
- Magic eraser
- Leather conditioner
- Newspaper/toilet paper
- Old toothbrush
Materials Needed for Cleaning:
- Non-gel white toothpaste
- Baking soda
- Liquid dish soap
- White vinegar
- Bleach
Prewash the Shoes:
- Remove the shoelaces and removable insoles before cleaning the shoes. Place the shoelaces in a bowl of warm water with a tablespoon of laundry detergent and allow them to soak, then wash them separately.
- Use the soft bristle brush to remove any dirt and debris from the surface of the shoes.
- If your shoes are muddy, scrub them with a toothbrush or rinse them off with water. Also, remember to brush along the rubber sole and outer edge of the tongue.
- If you have shoe trees, insert them. If not, stuff the shoes with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to keep the shoe surface firm and provide a solid base to work on.
- Finally, wipe down the entire shoe with a damp cloth to remove any leftover dirt.
Tip: if you want to keep your shoes clean for a longer duration invest in protective shoe spray as it helps to repel water and stains.
Best Way to Clean White Leather Shoes at Home
1. Clean Shoes with Non-Gel White Toothpaste:
- Squeeze the toothpaste onto the shoe surface and scrub in a circular motion with the toothbrush. Continue scrubbing until the stain breaks up, then leave it for 10 minutes to dry.
- Use a damp, clean cloth to wipe away the excess toothpaste and let the shoes air dry before using them. Repeat the process if the shoes are still dirty.
2. Baking Soda Method:
- Prepare a thick paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
- Gently apply the paste to the shoes with the toothbrush and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes to work on the stains.
- Use the soft bristle brush to gently scrub the paste on the surface of the shoes.
- Once cleaning is complete, rinse the shoes with clean water and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Tip: Apply high-quality leather conditioner or shoe cream after washing the shoes to keep the leather flexible and hydrated, preventing it from cracking. It also acts as a protective barrier against moisture and water.
3. Using Liquid Dish Soap:
- Prepare the cleaning solution by mixing the liquid dish soap with a cup of warm water.
- Dip a toothbrush in the soapy water and gently scrub the entire shoe in a circular motion.
- Scrub away the stain on the shoe surface with an eraser sponge.
- When cleaning is complete, rinse the shoes with clean water and stuff them with paper towels to absorb the water and maintain their shape.
- Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can discolor and damage the glue.
4. Using White Vinegar:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to prepare the cleaning solution.
- Apply the solution to the shoes and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the shoes and allow them to air dry completely before using them again.
Caution: Ensure the vinegar does not sit on the shoes for too long, as it can damage the leather.
5. Using Bleach:
- Shoes with severe stains can be cleaned with bleach, but caution is necessary as bleach can cause skin irritation and breathing trouble.
- Clean the shoes in a well-ventilated area while protecting your skin and eyes.
- To start, create a cleaning solution with one part bleach and five parts water.
- Apply the solution to the shoes with a brush in a circular motion. When done, take a damp cloth and wipe off the solution. Leave the shoes to dry for five hours in a well-ventilated place.
Conclusion:
Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to keep your shoes in good condition. The methods described above will help you maintain your shoes. Which method do you use to clean your shoes? Let me know in the comments section.
Related: How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine
FAQs
Yes, toothpaste can be used to clean leather shoes as it contains sodium lauryl sulfate, which helps to remove stains and dirt. Avoid using gel toothpaste, as it may stain the leather.
Yes, baking soda can be used to clean white leather shoes. Create a thick paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the shoes with a toothbrush, leave it for 15 minutes, and then rinse them with clean water.
Avoid using harsh chemicals such as ammonia and acetone-based products, abrasive cleaners, and products containing alcohol and silicone, as they can dry out and damage the leather.
The quickest and best way to clean white leather is by using non-gel toothpaste. Squeeze the paste onto the shoe surface and scrub with a toothbrush in a circular motion. Once cleaning is done, wipe away with a clean cloth and let the shoes dry.
