White sneakers are comfortable and versatile fashion statements. They go with every outfit and – thanks to becoming a mainstay on the fashion scene – are now becoming appropriate for formal settings. Although a sweet new pair of fresh white kicks look like a million bucks when you first wear them, all it takes is that first little scuff and all of a sudden those once-fresh sneakers are looking stained. However, we have some handy hacks that will have your white sneakers looking like new again in no time. These are:
1. Baking soda and detergent
Mix 1:1.5 parts baking soda and detergent. Scrub the mixture onto your shoes with a toothbrush. Rinse and put shoes in the washing machine – just make sure you remove the laces and inner soles before washing on the delicate setting.
2. Baking soda and vinegar
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and a cup of water. Use a cloth or old toothbrush to scrub your white fabric sneakers until clean. This also works on leather and canvas. This method also apparently works with 1 tablespoon baking soda and 1/2 a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide/water combo. Use a toothbrush dipped in the mixture to scrub the shoes, wait 30 minutes for the baking soda to work its magic, then rinse with water.
3. Toothpaste
If it’s good enough to keep your teeth white, then it’s good enough to keep your sneakers clean. Add some white-gel toothpaste to an old toothbrush, add a little water and scrub the dirty area of your leather, canvas or mesh shoes, then wipe away excess with a damp cloth.
4. Toilet paper and water
This method is best for canvas shoes that – despite undergoing other methods of cleaning – still have yellow marks on them. Soak sheets of toilet paper with water and cover your sneakers with the paper. Leave to set and dry for 12 hours. Peel of paper and – voila! clean white shoes without yellow marks.