How to clean white leather sneakers: best tips for fall

The warm half of autumn is the perfect time to wear fashionable snow-white sneakers. However, such shoes can get dirty quite easily even in dry weather.

Thus, if you prefer leather models, cleaning them to pristine whiteness can be much easier than you thought. OBOZ.UA will tell you about some effective and quick life hacks.

How often should you clean white shoes

To keep your pair in good condition, take care of it every two weeks. The frequency also depends on how often you wear them and whether they have stains. As soon as you notice this problem, wipe the stained area immediately with a clean, damp cloth to get rid of the dirt and prevent it from setting in.

To keep your pair looking its best between cleanings, always treat your white leather shoes with a waterproof stain repellent spray. Reapply it every few weeks if necessary, but be sure to check all shoe labels and product instructions beforehand.

Cleaning with a melamine sponge

This cleaning tool is also great for dirty white shoes. Dampen a melamine sponge with a little water and run it over the leather of your sneakers. Use a little more force on stains. Finally, wipe the surface with a damp cloth and let the pair dry.

Cleaning with toothpaste

Toothpaste can also show impressive results. However, to treat shoes, you need to take a paste, not a gel, and avoid colored products. Baking soda will help to enhance the effect of the product. Mix a teaspoon of toothpaste, baking soda, and warm water. The result should be a thick paste-like substance. Change the proportions of baking soda and water as needed. Using a toothbrush or cloth, apply the mixture to the shoes, gently rubbing the leather in a circular motion to remove stains. Wipe off any remaining paste with a damp cloth and allow the sneakers to dry.

Cleaning with soap and water

As with toothpaste, you'll need a dye-free soap. It is best to use a colorless bar soap or laundry or shower gel. If the soap is liquid, put a few drops on a microfiber cloth; if it is bar soap, lightly moisten the cloth and rub it on the soap in a gentle circular motion. After cleaning, wipe off any residue with a damp cloth and dry the shoes.

Cleaning the laces

Now that your white leather sneakers are sparkling clean, it's time to take care of the laces. They are the first to collect dust and dirt and turn gray. To take care of them, fill a small bowl with warm water and dissolve a little laundry detergent or dishwashing liquid in it. Put the laces in this solution and let them soak for 10 minutes. Afterwards, scrub the laces with a small brush. Pay special attention to dirt and stubborn stains. Rinse the cleaned laces well and dry them before inserting them into the sneakers.

How to get rid of odors in white leather sneakers

To prevent unpleasant odors from developing in your sneakers, it is important to let them dry naturally. Leave them in a well-ventilated area or in front of a fan. When the sneakers are completely dry, treat them with shoe deodorizer or put tea bags inside overnight - they will work as an odor absorber. You can also sprinkle the insole with baking soda and leave it for 12-24 hours, and then shake the shoes out properly. A vinegar solution can also work. Mix white vinegar with water 1:1 and apply the mixture to the inside of the sneakers with a cloth. Leave the shoes in a well-ventilated area for about 15 minutes, but no longer. Then remove the vinegar with a damp cloth and let the pair air dry completely before putting it on.

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