How to Clean White Shoes: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Everyone should have a pair of white shoes in their collection. They’re timeless, versatile, and effortlessly stylish - but only when they stay white.

Whether you’re rocking white leather trainers, canvas sneakers, or gleaming white soles, it doesn’t take much for your footwear to start looking tired. But thankfully, with the right techniques and a little regular care, it’s easy to restore their crisp finish and keep them looking fresh.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to clean white shoes, no matter the material. From scuffed leather uppers to grubby soles and grimy laces, we’ve got simple, effective cleaning methods that will have your favourites looking new in no time.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Making your shoes white again
• How to clean white canvas shoes
• How to clean white leather shoes
• How to clean white soles of shoes
• How to clean white shoelaces
• How to keep white shoes cleaner for longer

Make Your Shoes White Again

Before we explore material-specific techniques, it helps to know a few universal principles that apply when keeping white shoes clean:

• Clean shoes regularly to stop dirt from setting in: this is crucial. Regular cleaning prevents dirt and stains from becoming embedded in the material, and once this happens, it’s much harder to remove. A light once-over after each wear helps maintain their brightness and reduces the need for deep cleaning.
• Use soft brushes or cloths to avoid damaging the surface: always choose quality shoe care, soft-bristled brushes, microfibre cloths, or sponges when cleaning white shoes. These gentle tools are effective at lifting dirt while preventing scuffing, particularly on delicate materials like leather or suede.
• Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can cause yellowing: while bleach might seem like an obvious go-to for white fabrics, it often counterintuitively leads to yellowing and can cause damage to fibres or material coatings. Stick to mild detergents or specialist shoe cleaners that are formulated for safe use.
• Always let shoes air-dry naturally (no direct heat): direct heat sources such as radiators or hair dryers can warp materials and adhesives or even cause leather to crack. Instead, let them dry at room temperature in a well-ventilated space to maintain their shape and integrity.

Now, let’s look at how to clean white shoes step by step.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes

Canvas is a popular choice for casual white trainers, thanks to its lightweight and breathable qualities. However, its absorbent fibres mean scuffs and stains show very easily, often making white canvas shoes look worn out after just a few outings.

The good news is that cleaning them is straightforward and can be done at home with everyday materials. Here’s a quick and effective way to clean white canvas shoes at home.

What you’ll need:

• A soft brush
• Warm water
• Laundry detergent
• A clean towel

Step 1: Remove the Laces

Take out the laces so you can access the tongue and eyelets.

Step 2: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) to scrub off dry dirt and dust.

Step 3: Mix a Cleaning Solution

Combine warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap.

Step 4: Scrub the Canvas

Dip the brush into the solution and gently scrub the canvas in circular motions. Avoid soaking the shoes.

Step 5: Rinse and Pat Dry

Wipe away soap with a damp cloth, then blot dry with a clean towel.

Step 6: Air Dry

Leave shoes in a warm, dry area out of direct sunlight until fully dry.

You can also learn how to clean mesh trainers, which is similar but different from the above process.

How to Clean White Leather Shoes

Leather shoes require a gentler touch than canvas due to their smoother surface and natural fibres, which can be more prone to damage from scrubbing or harsh chemicals. However, because it doesn't absorb stains as readily as fabric materials, it's usually easier to wipe clean with the right products and techniques.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• A dry microfibre cloth
• Warm water
• Gentle soap
• A clean, damp cloth
• Leather conditioner (optional but recommended)

Step 1: Wipe with a Dry Cloth

Remove surface dirt and dust using a dry microfibre cloth.

Step 2: Prepare a Mild Soap Solution

Mix warm water with a few drops of gentle soap (non-bleach, non-abrasive).

Step 3: Clean the Leather

Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring out excess moisture. Wipe the leather in small, circular motions.

Step 4: Remove Soap Residue

Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any leftover soap.

Step 5: Dry and Condition

Pat the leather dry and apply leather conditioner to prevent cracking and maintain suppleness.

Cleaning popular Skechers leather and canvas shoes might differ from the process above, so we prepared a separate guide to clean Skechers shoes.

How to Clean White Soles of Shoes

White soles can quickly turn grey or yellow, especially when exposed to dirt, pavement, and oxidation from air and sunlight. Restoring their original brightness helps your shoes look fresh and well cared for, and it can also extend their lifespan. Here’s how to bring them back to life.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• A toothbrush
• A damp cloth

Step 1: Mix Baking Soda and Vinegar

Make a paste using baking soda and white vinegar.

Step 2: Apply to Soles

Use a toothbrush to apply the paste to the soles and scrub in circles.

Step 3: Let Sit

Leave for about 15 minutes to allow the mixture to break down dirt.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Wipe off the paste with a damp cloth and allow the soles to air dry.

Step 1: Remove Laces

Take the laces out and shake off any loose debris.

Step 2: Soak in Soapy Water

Place them in a bowl of warm water mixed with laundry detergent. Soak for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Scrub and Rinse

Rub the laces together or use a soft brush to remove stains, then rinse thoroughly.

Step 4: Air Dry

Lay them flat or hang them up to dry completely before re-lacing your shoes.

Our White Shoes Collection

Now that you know how to keep them clean, why not treat yourself to a new pair? Our range of women’s white shoes andwhite trainers includes styles ranging from sleek and sporty to elegant and versatile. Or browse ourmen’s white shoes andwhite trainers for timeless styles that deliver comfort and quality every time.

Whether you’re refreshing your current favourites or picking out a brand-new pair, keeping your white shoes looking pristine has never been easier.