How to Clean White Sneakers (and Keep Them White)

A step-by-step method for cleaning white sneakers in canvas, leather and knit, plus tips to keep them looking new.

White sneakers go with almost everything, but they show every mark. The good news is that most dirt and scuffs come off with simple supplies you already have at home. Here's how to clean them safely and keep them looking fresh.

What you'll need

• A soft brush, such as an old toothbrush, and a medium brush for soles.
• Mild dish soap or a dedicated sneaker cleaner.
• A bowl of warm water.
• Microfibre cloths.
• Baking soda for stubborn stains on soles.
• Paper towels or newspaper for drying.

Step 1: Prep the shoes

Remove the laces and insoles. Knock the shoes together outdoors to remove loose dirt, then brush off dry dirt with a dry brush.

Step 2: Wash the laces

Soak the laces in warm soapy water while you clean the shoes. Rub them together, rinse and leave them to air-dry.

Step 3: Clean the uppers

Mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water. Dip the soft brush and scrub in small circles.

• Canvas: scrub gently and wipe with a damp cloth.
• Leather: use a cloth or soft brush with minimal water and wipe dry immediately. Finish with a leather conditioner.
• Knit or mesh: dab and brush very lightly, then blot with a cloth. Avoid soaking.
• Suede: don't use water. Use a suede brush and suede eraser instead.

Step 4: Clean the soles

Make a paste of baking soda and a little water. Scrub the midsoles and outsoles with the medium brush, then wipe clean. A melamine sponge also works well on rubber midsoles.

Step 5: Dry them properly

Stuff the shoes with paper towels to keep their shape and absorb moisture. Let them air-dry at room temperature, away from direct heat like radiators and hair dryers, which can warp soles and yellow some materials. Leaving them in very strong sunlight for long periods can also cause yellowing.

Can you machine-wash sneakers?

Some canvas sneakers can go in the washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle inside a laundry bag, but check the brand's care instructions first. Leather, suede and many performance shoes should never be machine-washed.

How to keep them white longer

• Apply a protective spray suitable for the material when they're new and after cleaning.
• Wipe off marks as soon as they happen.
• Rotate your shoes so each pair gets time to air out.
• Store them away from direct sunlight.

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