How to Clean White Sneakers at Home (Without Ruining Them)
White sneakers look amazing — until the first rainy day. Every pair we sell is deep-cleaned before it ships, and here is how to keep it that way.
What you need
- A soft brush (an old toothbrush works for small areas)
- Warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap
- A microfibre cloth or towel
- Baking soda (for tough stains on the sole)
- A melamine "magic" sponge (optional, great for midsoles)
Step by step
- Remove the laces and insoles. Soak the laces in warm soapy water while you clean the shoe.
- Brush off dry dirt first, so you don't rub it into the material.
- Clean the upper with the soft brush dipped in soapy water. Use small circles and don't soak the shoe.
- Clean the midsole with the brush, or a magic sponge for scuffs. For tough marks, make a paste of baking soda and a little water, scrub gently and wipe off.
- Wipe everything with a damp cloth to remove soap.
- Dry them naturally. Stuff the shoes with paper to keep their shape and leave them in the shade.
Avoid these mistakes
- No washing machine or dryer for leather sneakers — heat warps glue and cracks leather.
- No bleach on the upper — it can turn white leather and mesh yellow.
- No direct sunlight or heaters for drying — this also causes yellowing.
Suede and nubuck
Suede hates water. Use a dry suede brush and a suede eraser instead, brushing in one direction.
Keep them fresh
- Wipe off marks the same day — fresh stains come out easily.
- A protector spray helps on suede and canvas.
- Rotate pairs so each one can air out.
Looking for a fresh pair? See the latest arrivals in our shop.
