5 Genius Hacks to Keep Your White Sneakers Clean as Long as Possible

White sneakers are a wardrobe staple. Whether you pair them with jeans or a skater dress, they match nearly any outfit and give the ensemble a casual, sporty vibe depending on the style of the shoe. From the classic Converse you’ve had for years to that new pair of running shoes you specifically wear for to work, there’s a pair of comfy white sneakers for virtually any outfit or activity. If you’ve ever owned white sneakers, though, you know how easily they can get dirty. Sometimes you can quite literally feel like you’re walking on eggshells to prevent your new shoes from getting any unwanted scuff marks and stains. If you’ve ever wondered how to clean white sneakers–or how to prevent them from getting dirty in the first place—we tapped a few cleaning experts to give us a lesson in cleaning white shoes.

“The key to keeping your white shoes white for as long as possible lies in regular cleaning and maintenance,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. “There are a few combinations of methods to remove stains and brighten white shoes from using baking soda and vinegar to bleach.” Ahead, see what Sokolowski and her fellow cleaning experts had to say about how to clean white sneakers no matter the material—especially when the sneaker erasers don’t cut it anymore.

What is the best way to clean dirty white sneakers?

There are several methods to keep white sneakers clean. According to experts, here are some of the most effective ways to clean white sneakers, and make sure they stay clean.

1. Make white shoes white again with baking soda

It works for cleaning strawberries, counters, and shoes! A simple solution of baking soda and vinegar is a great start to eat away at grime and dirt on your white sneakers. “Baking soda is a mild abrasive that effectively helps scrub away dirt, while vinegar acts as a natural cleaning and bleaching agent that can help break down stains,” says Sokolowski. “You’ll want to mix the baking soda and vinegar to make a paste, then apply it to the shoes with a soft brush, and then let the solution sit on the sneakers for a bit before rinsing.” Aside from vinegar, Kaylie Hill, Scotch-Brite brand ambassador, and cleaning influencer, recommends mixing baking soda with laundry detergent. “You can apply this paste to your sneakers and let it sit for one to two hours. The baking soda helps to lift any stains and helps remove odors,” she adds.

“Hydrogen peroxide will not only whiten your shoes but also disinfect them.” —Kaylie Hill, Scotch-Brite brand ambassador, and cleaning influencer

2. Use vinegar to whiten sneakers

Yes, vinegar alone does whiten sneakers. As Sokolowski mentioned above, vinegar works as a cleaning agent to break down dirt and stains whether it’s mixed with baking soda or even olive oil. Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company, says a combination of olive oil and vinegar is an easy solution to use when you’re trying to clean white leather sneakers, in particular.

According to Mock, you should combine 1/4 cup vinegar with 1/2 cup olive oil in a medium-sized spray bottle. Shake the bottle vigorously to combine the ingredients and then spray the shoes with the mixture, coating the entire surface thoroughly, and then let the solution sit for five minutes. “The vinegar and olive oil should soak into the leather and bring strains to the surface,” says Mock. “Finally, wipe off the solution with a soft, dry cloth. As you do, the stain should come off with it.”

3. Use hydrogen peroxide to whiten sneakers

When figuring out how to clean white sneakers at home, hydrogen peroxide is an easy and affordable drugstore option. There are a few ways to include hydrogen peroxide in the cleaning process. “You can apply hydrogen peroxide to the above baking soda method in place of the dish soap or you can apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the shoes,” says Hill. “Hydrogen peroxide will not only whiten your shoes but also disinfect them.” According to Sokolowski, you’ll want to leave the paste on your shoes for at least 30 minutes and then rinse it off. You can repeat the process as necessary if dirt or stains remain behind.

4. Is it safe to use bleach on white shoes?

Bleach can be safe to use on white shoes, however, you need to exercise caution when using and applying it. “Dilute the bleach with water (one part bleach to five parts water) to minimize potential damage,” says Sokolowski. “Use a cloth or brush to apply the solution, and rinse thoroughly afterward.” You’ll want to avoid using bleach on colorful or delicate materials. Sokolowski notes that oxygen bleach is a safer, eco-friendly option that effectively removes stains and brightens shoes without the harsh effects of chlorine bleach.

5. Use dish soap to clean white shoes

Dish soap is arguably one of the most well-known hacks when it comes to figuring out how to clean shoes—plus, it’s pretty accessible and you most likely already have it at home. “The primary active ingredient in dish soap is detergent, so when mixed with water, it creates light, foamy bubbles which are great for penetrating stains and breaking down oils,” says Maeve Richmond, founder of home organizational company Maeve’s Method.

According to Richmond, you’ll want to mix a small squirt—no more than a teaspoon—of dish soap into a cup of water and stir until it’s frothy. Next, you’ll want to use a clean, damp sponge or toothbrush to gently rub the mixture on all surfaces, including the soles. And lastly, she recommends using a dry, clean sponge or a paper towel to wipe them as you clean them.

How do you get white shoes white again?

Your white sneakers will inevitably get dirty at some point after extensive wear. That said, it is possible to get white shoes white again. You’ll want to consider the methods mentioned above and take into account the material they are made from.

How to make white mesh shoes white again

Mesh shoes require careful handling since they are delicate and can easily lose their shape. To make white shoes shoes white again, Mock recommends starting off by brushing any loose dirt away using a soft-bristled brush. Then, you’ll want to mix warm water with a few drops of mild laundry detergent in a small bowl alongside another bowl with clean water for rinsing. Next, use a soft cloth, sponge, or brush to apply the soapy mixture to the shoes in small, circular motions, focusing on one section at a time. For the rubber parts, you can use an old toothbrush dipped in soapy water and scrub gently. Lastly, wipe down the shoes with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.

How to make white rubber white again

There are a few ways to make white rubber white again, whether the soles or the sides have become dirty. According to Hill, you can use the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide method or you can also soak them in hydrogen peroxide for three to four hours. “Add hydrogen peroxide and water in a bucket and soak your rubber shoes or add hydrogen peroxide to a spray bottle and saturate your shoes,” Hill adds.

“Be sure to always wash the shoes with cold water as washing with hot water can cause damage to the seams and can also wear down the materials over time.” —Kaylie Hill, Scotch-Brite brand ambassador, and cleaning influencer

How to get white shoelaces white again

Although you may have already cleaned the sides and soles of your white shoes, you can’t forget about the shoelaces. After all, what are clean shoes without clean laces to match? To clean your shoelaces, “Remove the shoelaces and soak them in a mix of warm water and mild laundry detergent,” says Sokolowski. “For added whitening power, add a small amount of baking soda or Oxygen Bleach powder to the solution, then after soaking, scrub gently, rinse thoroughly and air dry.”

Is it okay to put white shoes in the washing machine?

It is generally okay to put white shoes in the washing machine when you want to wash your sneakers. According to Mock, you’ll want to place your white shoes in the washing machine, along with a small amount of mild laundry detergent on a gentle cycle. “Be sure to always wash the shoes with cold water as washing with hot water can cause damage to the seams and can also wear down the materials over time,” Hill recommends.

How do you keep white sneakers from getting dirty?

The key to keeping white sneakers from getting dirty is to exercise caution while wearing them. For example, you’ll want to refrain from stepping in huge mounds of dirt or in puddles if you can help it. Aside from practicing situational awareness, Sokolowski encourages people to engage in spot treatments when you notice dirt or stains starting to form. This will prevent any scuffs or marks from becoming deeply embedded in the shoe material.

When to throw out white sneakers

You can only clean your shoes so many times before they are no longer functional. “If there are any holes, broken soles, or tears, it is time to throw them away,” says Hill. It can be sad to say goodbye, especially if you have a sentimental attachment to that particular pair of shoes, but it’s important to keep the health of your feet—and functionality—in mind when it comes to shoes. If your sneakers become permanently discolored and aren’t damaged, then you may want to consider donating them and upgrading to the latest pair of white sneakers you’ve been eyeing.

Final thoughts on cleaning white sneakers

White sneakers are bound to get dirty, but it’s easy to keep them clean with a few common household cleaning supplies. Whether you want to use vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, or baking soda, there’s a plethora of methods that have been proven effective in removing dirt from white shoes. Of course, taking preventative measures to maintain your shoes’ cleanliness is also important, and can help enhance their longevity and overall appearance. So, wear the white shoes; take that shortcut next to the sidewalk; and know that there’s a way to get your white sneakers looking like new again as soon as you get home.