White shoes look amazing — until they get dirty. The good news? Cleaning white sneakers, canvas shoes, or leather kicks is easier than you think. Here are the best ways to remove stains, brighten soles, and keep your shoes looking fresh.
1. Dish Soap & Water
Mix a teaspoon of dish soap into a cup of warm water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Dip a soft cloth or toothbrush into the mix and scrub your shoes in circular motions. For tough stains, use a stiff-bristled toothbrush. Clean the rubber soles with a damp magic eraser for scuffs and yellowing. Pat dry with a towel and let your shoes air-dry overnight.
2. Bleach Solution
For stubborn stains on white fabric shoes, dilute 1 part bleach with 5 parts water. Wear gloves and work in a ventilated area. Use a toothbrush to scrub the solution into the fabric. Wipe off excess bleach with a damp microfiber towel, then leave your shoes to dry completely.
3. Baking Soda & Vinegar
Combine 1 tablespoon each of baking soda, white vinegar, and hot water to form a paste. Brush the paste onto your shoes using a toothbrush, covering all fabric areas. Let the paste dry in sunlight for 3–4 hours. Once dry, clap your shoes together outside to remove the hardened residue and brush off any leftovers.
4. Toothpaste Trick
For quick touch-ups, apply white (non-gel) toothpaste directly to stains on canvas or rubber. Use a toothbrush to scrub the paste in, then wipe clean with a damp cloth and let dry.
With these proven methods, you can bring your white shoes back to life, removing stains, scuffs, and yellowing while keeping them looking crisp and stylish.
