As an all-rounder, white sneakers go with every outfit and every occasion. However, the bright sneakers have one annoying disadvantage: they are particularly susceptible to dirt, dust and stains. With a few tips and home remedies, you can clean your white sneakers and get them really clean again. Here you can find out how to prevent stains on sneakers and make dirty, originally white sneakers shine again. And all without a washing machine!
Cleaning white sneakers: no need for a washing machine
Although it is very tempting to simply wash dirty sneakers in the washing machine, it is better not to do so. The high temperatures and the spin cycle can loosen the glue, deform the shoe or crack the sole. For these reasons, cleaning sneakers made of fabric in the washing machine should only be an absolute emergency solution. Leather sneakers have no place in the washing machine anyway.
The basic rule is therefore: Invest a little more time and clean your shoes with household products and a brush or sponge. It is best to brush the sneakers thoroughly before cleaning and remove the laces. Clean them separately with soap and water or washing-up liquid.
Tip: Waterproofing spray protects against dirt and water
Better safe than sorry. Impregnate your white sneakers with a spray after purchase. This makes them less susceptible to unsightly stains, dirt and water.
Clean white sneakers with toothpaste
Over time, however, even waterproof shoes are not spared from dust and dirt. Toothpaste is a tried-and-tested household remedy that is ideal for removing stains. It also works wonders on white sneakers – whether made of fabric or leather. First apply a little washing-up liquid with a damp sponge. Then rub the sponge over the white sneakers in a circular motion until a little foam forms. Dab this off with a cloth. Then repeat this step with white toothpaste instead of washing-up liquid. Then leave the sneakers to dry for a few hours.
Get sneakers white again with baking soda
Mix baking soda and colorless washing-up liquid in a 1:1 ratio and apply the mixture to the dirty sneakers with a damp sponge or toothbrush. Leave the foam to work for a while and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
Reading tip: Here you will find 4 tips to wash yellowed socks white again.
Cleaning white sneakers with bleach
Caution is advised when using bleach! The chemical agent should only be used to clean the rubber sole or a heavily soiled fabric shoe anyway. Mix two tablespoons of bleach powder with half a cup of water and apply the mixture with a toothbrush or cotton bud. Alternatively, you can also use liquid bleach. Both products are available at drugstores.
Important: Always wear gloves and safety goggles during the process. The work surface should also not come into contact with the chemical agent. It is therefore essential to use a carpet pad. In addition, the bleaching agent must not be left to work for too long. The sole of the shoe or the fabric shoe should then be rinsed thoroughly with clean water.
You can also use a dirt eraser
Dirt erasers are available at any drugstore for little money. You can use a magic sponge like this to remove stubborn dirt and stains from rubber soles, shoe caps and even smooth or artificial leather. Simply moisten the sponge slightly and use it to work on the dirty areas. To avoid damaging the material, you should be a little more careful with the dirt eraser on leather shoes and not rub it too hard over the surface.
Dirty sneakers can ruin any outfit, no matter how chic. That’s over now. Whether they’re made of leather or fabric – thanks to these tips, your sneakers will look like new in no time at all.
Sources: vogue, rtl
