White sneakers show every mark, and a washing machine is rough on them. The tumbling can weaken the glue and pull the shoe out of shape. Cleaning by hand takes about 15 minutes a pair and is much gentler.
What you need
- A foam shoe cleaner
- A soft brush and a soft cloth
- A second cloth, damp, for wiping
- Plain paper to stuff the shoes while they dry
Step by step
- Take out the laces and, if they come out, the insoles.
- Knock the soles together and brush off loose, dry dirt. Wet mud smears, so let it dry first.
- Shake the can and spray an even layer of foam over the area you want to clean.
- Work the foam in gently with a soft brush or cloth, in small circles.
- Wipe the foam and dirt away with a damp cloth.
- Repeat on stubborn marks.
- Stuff the shoes with paper and let them air-dry at room temperature, away from direct heat.
Adjust for the material
- Canvas can take a firmer brush stroke. Clean the whole panel, not only the stain, so you do not leave a tide mark.
- Mesh needs a cloth or a very soft brush and light pressure, so the weave does not fray.
- Leather and faux leather do better with a cloth than a brush. Wipe them dry straight away.
- Suede and nubuck should not be cleaned with foam. Use a dry suede brush instead.
Do not forget the laces
Soak the laces in warm soapy water for 15–20 minutes, rub them between your hands, rinse and hang them up to dry.
Drying mistakes to avoid
- Do not dry sneakers in harsh sun or next to a heater. Heat can warp the sole and turn white materials yellow.
- Do not wear them until they are dry inside.
The cleaner we make for this
Shinezy Shoe Cleaner Foam Spray removes dirt and tough stains from canvas, mesh, leather, faux leather, and rubber soles and midsoles. Keep it off suede and nubuck, and test a small hidden area first, especially on coloured or delicate materials.