- Housekeeping
- Stain Removal
These simple tricks and household ingredients will make dirty shoes look (and smell) like new.
By
Jessica Bennett
Jessica Bennett
Jessica Bennett is an editor, writer, and former digital assistant home editor at BHG.
Learn about BHG's Editorial Process
Updated on June 22, 2024
In This Article
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In This Article
- How to Clean Shoes
- How to Clean Shoes Made of Canvas
- How to Clean Shoes Made of Leather
- How to Clean Shoes Made of Suede
- How to Clean Tennis Shoes
- How to Clean White Shoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
The best method for how to clean shoes varies depending on the material. Most footwear can be cleaned using a solution of mild dish soap and water, but certain types of shoes, including mesh sneakers and suede shoes, require special care to avoid damaging the material. We'll walk you through how to use simple household items, such as baking soda, distilled white vinegar, and a toothbrush, to remove grime and discoloration from your footwear.
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How to Clean Shoes
The first step in how to clean shoes of any material is to insert shoe trees or stuff the interiors with newspaper to help the shoes maintain their shape and create a barrier against any moisture that seeps through while cleaning. If your shoes are heavily stained or made of a delicate material, you might never be able to restore that fresh-from-the-box look completely. But the steps below should help you get them cleaner.
Equipment / Tools
How to Clean Canvas Shoes
- Soft-bristled brush
- Melamine sponge
- Microfiber cloth
- Suede brush
- Clean block eraser
- Bleach pen
Materials
How to Clean Canvas Shoes
- Liquid laundry detergent
- Liquid soap
- Vinegar
- Baking Soda
Instructions
How to Clean Shoes Made of Canvas
Remove Laces and Brush Away Dirt
To clean canvas shoes, start by removing the laces and brushing away any excess dirt using a dry toothbrush or soft-bristled brush.
Wash, Soak, and Scrub
Wash the shoes by hand using a small amount of liquid laundry detergent mixed with water. Pre-treat stains by applying detergent directly to the spot and allowing it to sit for at least 15 minutes. Clean the entire shoe by scrubbing with a sponge or cloth dipped in the detergent solution.
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Remove Scuff Marks and Let Dry
Use a melamine sponge to remove scuff marks from the sole. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the shoes and blot away soapy residue, then let the shoes dry completely.
Clean the Laces
Soak the laces in your detergent solution or in a diluted bleach solution; rinse and let dry before re-lacing.
How to Clean Shoes Made of Leather
Leather and faux leather shoes can stain easily and are prone to damage if you scrub too hard.
Scrub Shoes with Cleaning Solution
The best method of how to clean leather boots and shoes is to mix a few drops of liquid dish soap into a cup of warm water. Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the mixture and gently scrub the shoes.
Tackle Tough Scuffs
For scuffs that won't budge, gently scrub with a melamine sponge or use a soap specially designed for leather.
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How to Clean Shoes Made of Suede
Wait for Wet Suede to Dry
The trick to how to clean shoes made of suede is avoiding water, which can cause discoloration or damage the velvety texture. Always wait until the material is completely dry, then brush away loose dirt using a suede brush or toothbrush.
Buff and Remove Spots
Use a clean block eraser to buff out small scuffs and marks. For larger spots, use a microfiber cloth dipped in white vinegar to gently lift out the stain.
Air-Dry and Brush
Allow the shoes to air-dry away from direct heat or sunlight, then brush the surface again to restore its original texture.
How to Clean Tennis Shoes
Athletic shoes are often made of mesh or knit fabrics that can be easily snagged or damaged by harsh scrubbing, so take care to use a soft touch while cleaning.
Soak the Laces
Remove the laces and carefully brush off excess dirt with a soft-bristled brush. While you clean the rest of the shoe, soak the laces in a small amount of liquid laundry detergent mixed with warm water.
Clean the Fabric and Insoles
Apply the same detergent solution to the shoes with a soft cloth and work it into the fabric using gentle circular motions. If needed, remove the insoles and scrub those as well. Remove soapy residue from the insoles and exterior by wiping with a clean, damp cloth, rinsing out the cloth as often as needed.
Let Shoes and Laces Dry
Remove the laces from the detergent solution and run under warm water. Let all components dry before adding the laces.
How to Clean White Shoes
White shoes are especially prone to stains and scuffs, so you might need some extra cleaning power for this type of shoe.
Clean as Directed for Material
Start by following the cleaning instructions for the shoe's material.
Remove Stubborn Grime and Stains
If stains or grime remain, mix baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste, apply it to the shoe, gently scrub, and let dry. Brush off as much residue as possible, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Use a bleach pen to spot-treat stubborn stains for white shoes made of canvas or mesh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can shoes be washed in the washing machine?
In general, you should never put shoes in the washing machine, as prolonged soaking and agitation can loosen the glue that binds them together or cause other damage.
Can shoes be dried in the dryer?
Dryers can cause damage to certain types of shoes, so make sure to read the shoe manufacturer's instructions. When in doubt, let shoes air-dry.