White shoes look fresh and stylish—until dirt, grime, and yellowing ruin their crisp appearance. Throwing them in the washing machine can damage the fabric, so what’s the best way to clean them safely? Below, we’ll share five proven methods to deep-clean white shoes without causing harm, so they stay looking brand new.

1. Use Mild Laundry Detergent for Gentle Cleaning

Best for: Everyday dirt & light stains

  1. Mix mild detergent with warm water.
  2. Dip a soft cloth or toothbrush into the solution.
  3. Scrub the shoes gently, focusing on stained areas.
  4. Wipe with a damp cloth and air dry.

2. Apply Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide for Tough Stains

Best for: Yellowing & deep stains

  1. Combine 2 parts baking soda + 1 part hydrogen peroxide into a paste.
  2. Spread the paste on the shoes with a toothbrush.
  3. Wait 30 minutes, then rinse or let dry in sunlight.
  4. Brush off residue for a brighter finish.

3. Try Diluted Bleach for Stubborn Canvas Stains

Best for: Whitening heavily stained canvas (not leather/suede)

  1. Mix 1 tbsp bleach + 1 quart water.
  2. Dip a cloth or brush into the solution.
  3. Scrub in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly.
  4. Air dry away from direct sun to prevent damage.

4. Wrap Shoes in Toilet Paper to Lift Stains

Best for: Removing leftover residue

  1. Dampen white toilet paper.
  2. Wrap it tightly around the shoes.
  3. Let dry for 12 hours.
  4. Peel off—the stains come off with the paper.

5. Use Lemon Juice & Sunlight for Natural Whitening

Best for: Yellowing & discoloration

  1. Mix lemon juice with a little water.
  2. Scrub stains with a cloth or brush.
  3. Place shoes in sunlight for 2-3 hours.
  4. Rinse and dry completely.

CONCLUSION TO Clean White Shoes

To keep white shoes looking fresh:
✔ Avoid the washing machine—opt for gentle cleaning methods.
✔ Use baking soda, bleach (for canvas), or lemon juice for tough stains.
✔ Air dry properly to prevent damage.
With these steps, your white shoes will stay bright and clean for longer!

FAQ

how to clean shoes in washing machine

To clean shoes in a washing machine, first remove the insoles and laces. Wipe off any surface dirt with a damp cloth. Place the shoes in a laundry bag, select a gentle cycle, and use cold water with a small amount of detergent. After washing, let the shoes air dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight or a dryer.