Blog

White sneakers aren’t just shoes; they’re an emotion. They bring confidence, style, and happiness.

But sneakers pick up dirt faster than you’d expect. And trying to clean them in the wrong way often leads to yellow stains, ruined shape, or faded material. In this blog, we’re sharing the right cleaning methods for white sneakers and the best tips to maintain them. 

Table of Contents

• How to Clean White Sneakers.

• Mistakes to Avoid During Cleaning White Sneakers

• How to Maintain White Sneakers

• When to Call the Pros

• Conclusion 

How to Clean White Sneakers

These are some easy steps to make your white sneakers white again. 

Step 1: Remove laces & Clean Separately

Let's start by removing shoelaces and any removable inserts from your shoes.

Now, make a cleaning solution with ¼ cup of bleach (recommended oxygen-based bleach) and 1 gallon of water in a large bowl and mix properly.After the solution is ready, soak the laces for about an hour while you clean the shoes.

Step 2: Dust The Dirt Off 

Use a dry toothbrush or soft brush to gently scrub off any loose dirt or dust from the shoes, especially from the soles and edges.

Step 3: Spot And Clean Stains

To remove tough stains, take equal parts of baking soda, white vinegar and water in a bowl and mix them gently. Then, apply to the stain and gently scrub with a clean brush or cloth.

Step 4: Wash The Entire Shoe

In a bowl, mix a small amount of mild detergent with water (or use a shoe cleaner). Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the shoe from top to bottom.

Bonus tip for fabric white sneakers: If you still see stubborn stains, apply a small amount of toothpaste on the fabric parts where the stain is, and scrub gently, then wipe with a damp cloth.

Step 5: Rinse and Air-dry

To remove mixture residue, use a clean, damp cloth and wipe the shoes. Then dry the shoes in natural air and avoid direct sunlight or a heater.

Also, rinse your laces with cold water and wash them by hand or in the washing machine.

Step 6: Brighten Up the Soles

Use a Magic Eraser on the rubber soles to remove scuff marks and bring back the shine.

Step 7: Put Everything Back

After everything is completely dry, re-lace your shoes and insert the accessories you took out during the cleaning process. Now, your white sneaker is back to its real look.

Tip - For persistent odors after cleaning, check our guide on why shoes smell and how to clean them.

Mistakes to Avoid During Cleaning White Sneakers

• Scrubbing with hard brushes can damage the fabric, leave scratches, or cause fraying.

• Using bleach or strong detergents may cause the sneakers to yellow over time or weaken the material.

• Soaking the entire sneaker in water loses the glue and ruins the sneaker’s shape and cushioning.

• Drying under direct sunlight causes discolouration and makes materials stiff or cause cracks.

These methods can cause more damage than dirt itself.

How to Maintain White Sneakers

• Spray some sneaker protector: Once your shoes are completely clean, apply a protective layer over them to protect them from dirt and water.

• Stuff with paper or use shoe trees:This helps your sneakers keep their shape and avoid those annoying folds.

• Avoid mud pits: Try not to wear your whites in wet or muddy areas.

• Don’t wear the same pair daily: Rotate your sneakers so they have time to air out and stay fresher longer.

• Quick clean-ups matter: Even if they look fine, regular wiping prevents dirt from accumulating. 

When to Call the Pros

Not everyone has the time, the right tools, or the patience to deep clean their white sneakers in the right way. Sometimes, a quick wipe just doesn’t cut it, especially when you’ve invested in premium footwear. If your shoes are made from delicate or specialty materials like leather, suede, mesh, or canvas, improper cleaning can easily damage them or reduce their lifespan. That’s where expert cleaners come in.

Professional Steam Masters sneaker cleaning service knows how to handle each material with the care it deserves. They use specialized equipment, safe cleaning agents, and techniques tailored for every fabric to restore your white sneakers without compromising their look or structure. Whether it’s stubborn stains, yellowing soles, or just a much-needed refresh, calling in the pros ensures your shoes look as fresh as the day you bought them.

So, if your kicks need more than a DIY scrub, it’s time to trust the experts.

Conclusion

Take care of your white sneakers, and they'll always look great. Clean them in the right way, avoid common mistakes, and adopt some smart habits to keep them looking fresh.

A little effort goes a long way, your shoes will thank you!