How to Refresh Your White Canvas Shoes at Home

Did you know you can clean your white canvas shoes, like Vans or Converse, without relying on harsh chemicals, dry cleaning services, or a washing machine? White sneakers are a wardrobe essential, whether paired with a suit, sundress, or classic jeans and a T-shirt. The challenge is keeping them clean, especially when they turn yellow or encounter a muddy puddle. Our simple, step-by-step guide will show you how to clean white shoes effortlessly with natural methods.

How Often Should You Clean White Canvas Shoes?

Aim to clean your white canvas shoes every two weeks, or immediately if they get dirty. The frequency depends on how often you wear them—if you wear them daily, you may need to clean them weekly.

Regular deep cleaning not only removes dirt and stains but also helps eliminate odors. However, if you wear your shoes infrequently, cleaning them once a month should suffice.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes Using a Magic Eraser

What You'll Need:

• Paper towels
• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Step 1: Remove Surface Dirt

Moisten a paper towel, wring out the excess, and gently wipe down the outer surface of your shoes to lift off large dirt particles. Afterward, allow your shoes to air dry for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Clean the Shoes

Dampen your Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and squeeze out any excess water. It should be moist, not soaking, to avoid drenching your shoes.

Gently apply the Magic Eraser to spot-clean the fabric. Use just enough pressure to lift stains without causing damage or scuffing the material.

Step 3: Scrub the Soles

Now, run the Magic Eraser along the bottom edges and soles of your shoes, scrubbing until dirt and stains are removed. Depending on the level of dirt, you may need to repeat steps two and three a couple of times.

Step 4: Dry the Shoes

Place your cleaned white shoes in a well-ventilated area to dry naturally. Ensure they are completely dry before wearing or storing them.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes Using Baking Soda, Vinegar, or Toothpaste

What You'll Need:

• Soft brush
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Warm water
• Bowl
• All-white toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Cloths

Step 1: Remove Dirt

Start by brushing off any loose dirt from your white shoes with a soft brush. Focus on clearing the dirt from the surface and soles without pushing it deeper into the fabric.

Step 2: Choose a Cleaner

For baking soda and vinegar: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and 1 cup of warm water. Allow the mixture to fizz and settle before using it to clean your shoes.

For toothpaste: Opt for toothpaste that contains baking soda for optimal results, and then move on to the next cleaning step.

Step 3: Scrub Clean

Soak a cloth or clean toothbrush in the vinegar mixture and gently scrub away the dirt on your shoes. This solution works for both the fabric and soles. Clean your cloth or toothbrush regularly to avoid spreading dirt around.

For toothpaste, apply it directly to any stains or dirt spots on the fabric. Use a clean toothbrush in a circular motion to spread the paste evenly.

After scrubbing all the areas, let the toothpaste sit on the shoes for around 15 minutes. This will allow the ingredients to penetrate and lift the stains.

Step 4: Wipe and Dry

After scrubbing, use a damp cloth to wipe away any leftover cleaning mixture or dried toothpaste. Allow your shoes to air dry completely. Make sure they are fully dry before storing or wearing them.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes Using Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent

What You'll Need:

• Soft brush
• Dish soap
• Warm water
• Bowl
• Mild laundry detergent
• Cloth or toothbrush

Step 1: Brush Away Dirt

Use a soft brush or a clean toothbrush to gently remove any loose dirt from the surface of the shoes. Avoid rubbing the dirt in, and make sure to wipe down the tongue, sole, and edges in addition to the fabric.

Step 2: Choose a Cleaner and Mix Cleaning Solution

For dish soap: In a small bowl, combine water with mild dish soap to create a soapy solution. Use only a small amount of soap (about a tablespoon) to prevent the cloth from becoming oversaturated.

For laundry detergent: Add a small amount (about a capful) of laundry detergent to lukewarm water in a bowl. This amount should be enough for cleaning both shoes, but feel free to mix more as needed.

Step 3: Scrub Clean

Take a clean cloth or toothbrush and gently apply the mixture to the shoes, working in small sections. Use circular motions to lift any stains and dirt.

Step 4: Wipe and Dry

Use a damp cloth to wipe away the soapy mixture from your shoes, making sure not to submerge them in water. Then, leave them in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. Ensure they are fully dry before putting them on or storing them away.

How to Clean White Suede Shoes With a Pencil Eraser and White Vinegar

Cleaning suede can be challenging because it's a delicate material that can stain easily. While true white suede is rare, off-white shades are prone to dirt too. Here’s how to clean white suede shoes gently and efficiently.

What You Need:

• Soft cotton cloth
• Pink pencil eraser
• Paper towel
• White vinegar
• Suede brush

Step 1: Begin by Blotting

Before cleaning your suede shoes, ensure they are completely dry by gently blotting them with a soft cloth. This step is crucial, as cleaning damp shoes could push stains deeper into the material, making them harder to remove later on.

Step 2: Erase Stains

After the shoes are dry, gently rub the stained areas with the pink pencil eraser to lift the marks.

Step 3: Dry With a Paper Towel

Place a paper towel over the damp stains and press down to blot. Avoid rubbing the towel into the fabric, as this could spread the dirt or stains to other areas of the shoe.

Step 4: Treat Remaining Stains

For any persistent stains, dampen a soft cloth with white vinegar and gently rub the area until the stain lifts.

Step 5: Dry and Brush

Once your shoes are clean, let them air dry. Afterward, use a suede brush to gently rub the exterior of each shoe to restore their soft, velvety texture.

How to Keep Your White Canvas Shoes Clean Longer

Now that your sneakers are spotless, you'll want to maintain their pristine condition. While storing them away and never wearing them again might be tempting, here are some practical tips to help preserve their cleanliness:

• Be cautious about when and where you wear white shoes. Opt for other footwear if the weather is rainy or the ground is muddy.
• Consider investing in a quality shoe protection spray. This creates a transparent, durable barrier that repels water, dirt, and stains while still allowing your shoes to breathe and your feet to stay dry.
• Keep sneaker wipes nearby. A quick wipe-down after every wear can prevent dirt buildup and stop stains from setting in.

How to Get Rid of and Prevent Smells in White Canvas Shoes

Dirt and stains aren't the only things that can ruin your pristine white shoes. A bad odor will certainly take the spotlight, no matter how clean they are.

Most unpleasant shoe smells stem from moisture, so keeping your shoes dry can greatly reduce odor. Here are some tips for eliminating shoe odors and preventing them from returning.

• Use baking soda. Just like it neutralizes odors in your fridge or pantry, baking soda can do wonders for your white shoes. You can leave an open box near where you store them, or for a more targeted approach, fill socks with baking soda and place one in each shoe while storing.
• Try a disinfecting spray, powder, or inserts. Many commercial products are designed to eliminate odors, with some tailored specifically for shoes and others acting as general disinfectants. Be sure to check the label for compatibility with your shoe material.
• Store your white shoes the right way. When you're not wearing them, store your white shoes in a cool, dry spot. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as humidity can foster odor-causing bacteria!
• Wear socks. Socks absorb sweat and moisture, preventing them from soaking into your shoes and causing unpleasant smells.
• Rotate your footwear. Allow each pair of shoes to air out for a day or two between uses.