Tips for cleaning white shoes

White shoes can be a real challenge to keep clean. A wide variety of material is used to make shoes.  Some materials are difficult to maintain. They require specific things be done often on a very regular basis in order to keep them looking their best and to make sure that they last.

When wearing dirty white shoes is not an option, you will need to read what the manufacturer recommends carefully. Having said that, with a little thought and care, you can keep them as white and bright as they were when you bought them.

Leather

White leather shoes have historically been the choice for nurses and nursing students. To clean a white leather shoe the best method is to remove any scuff makes with a damp cloth. Paper towels can also be used in a pinch. Using just plain water or a little dish liquid added to some water, rub the sole and the top of the shoe.  If the mark is persistent, apply a small amount of powder kitchen cleanser to your rag and scrub the spot. If the spot is still visible use white shoe polish to make it look as good as new.

Canvas

White tennis sneakers are a must in any wardrobe but it seems they are always getting dirty. One of the easiest ways to remove a stain quickly from a canvas shoe is with the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. These sponges are saturated with cleaner and all you need to do is to wet them and then rub the dirty spot. It should be gone in no time at all. If your sneakers or running shoes are inexpensive, you can try throwing them in the washing machine but air dry them to avoid having them lose their shape.

Man-made material

Man-made materials are durable and able to take more vigorous cleaning methods. Any all-purpose cleaner will do, placed in a sink of hot water. Use a small brush to scrub and small stains. Always wipe off any excess dirt before placing the shoes or sandals in the water. If the insoles are removable, take them out and clean them separately. Always consider the construction of your shoes before starting to clean them. If they are embellished or fragile, cleaning must be very gentle.

Non-washable material

If you purchase a pair of white shoes that are not washable then before you ever wear them you need to treat them with Scotchguard or something similar to make sure that you will be able to wipe them off with a damp cloth when the inevitable scuff or smudge happens. The treatment will make the shoe stain resistant.

There was a time when no one would have considered wearing white shoes before Memorial Day or after Labor Day. These days you can wear white shoes, especially white tennis shoes any time of year. Whether you wear white shoes for your job or just for the sheer enjoyment of it, you will want to keep them looking their best. With these tips, you should be able to do just that.