Tips to Clean Your Shoes to Preserve Them for Longer

Your shoes can affect your ensemble. So, we need different types of shoes for different occasions. You cannot show up for a formal event in a pair of flip flops. The fashion police will get you faster than you can slip in your leather shoes. However, if you do not attend formal events frequently, it may be unwise to invest in more than one pair of formal shoes. To preserve its brand-new look for longer, use the cleaning tips given here. 

Did you know that you need to employ different cleaning techniques for different types of shoes? There is no one size fits all solution. Read on to discover how to clean shoes. 

Scrub rope shoes in one direction to prevent the rope from fraying.

1) How to Clean Leather Shoes

Treat the stains on your leather shoes with a mixture of water and vinegar. Wait for the solution to dry. Later, wipe it off with a lint-free cloth. If there are scuffs around the edges, dampen a cloth with baking soda and wipe off those scuffs. Pat your shoes with a clean, dry cloth. 

2) How to Clean Patent Leather Shoes

If your patent leather shoes have begun to appear dull, you can use a glass cleaner to restore their shine. Whenever using any product, always read pack for usage instructions and test on a small part before use. 

3) How to Clean Suede Shoes

Invest in a suede brush to remove dirt particles from your suede shoes. If you spot stains on your suede shoes, add dishwash gel in a bowl of warm water. Spread this soapy water on your entire shoe using the suede brush. Rinse off the soapy layer with a damp cloth. Let the shoe dry naturally. You can read other tips to clean suede shoes here.

4) How to Clean Canvas Shoes

You can wash your canvas shoes in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with an effective laundry detergent. But before you toss your shoes in the washing machine, remove the laces and put the shoes in a mesh bag. Using a liquid laundry detergent comes in handy as it helps wash away the stains effectively without leaving any residual dirt behind. You can try using Surf Excel Matic Liquid, it leaves no residue (like powders do) as being a liquid it dissolves completely in water.  It is specially formulated for washing machines.

5) How to Clean Fabric Shoes

If there are stains on your fabric shoes, pour a few drops of laundry detergent  on the stain affected area. Let the detergent act on the stain for 15-20 minutes. Now, scrub off the stain with an old toothbrush. It will be lifted off the fabric. Rinse off the stain affected spot with a damp cloth. Let your shoes dry naturally in the sun. 

6) How to Clean White Sneakers

To clean stains on your white sneakers, mix 1 tbsp. of baking soda and 2 tbsp. of white vinegar in 1 cup of warm water. Baking soda contains mild alkali which helps dissolve dirt and grime. Vinegar’s acidic properties help break stains and clean them thoroughly. Dip an old toothbrush in this solution and gently scrub the stains.

You may also add 1 tsp. of bleach in this solution as it helps whiten the shoes. However, we suggest you to first read the instructions on the wash care label on your white shoes. If the instructions allow bleach to be used, you may use Rin Ala which is a fabric whitener.  Rin Ala being sodium hypochlorite bleach is recommended to use on white fabric only. Do not use on coloured fabric. You can read this article to get detailed tips on cleaning white shoes.

7) How to Clean Flip Flops

If your flip flops have started smelling like dirty socks, cover them up with baking soda. Let the baking soda rest on them for 5 to 10 minutes. Now scrub off the powder with an old toothbrush. Add 2 drops of dishwashing gel in a bowl of cold water. Use the soapy water to wash your flip flops. Rinse in cold water. Let them dry naturally in the sun. 

8) How to Clean Cork Wedges

Prepare a cleaning solution using a bowl of warm water, ½ cup vinegar and 2 drops of a dishwashing liquid. Soak a soft sponge in the cleaning solution and gently wipe your shoe with it. Leave it for 30 seconds. Now, wipe off the solution layer with a damp cloth. Leave your shoes to air dry.

9) How to Clean Rope Wedges

Mix a solution of 3-4 cups of warm water, 2 tbsp. of white vinegar and 1 tsp. of dishwashing liquid in a bowl. Mix it well. Dip an old toothbrush in this solution and clean the entire surface thoroughly. Remember to be gentle while cleaning. Then allow the shoes to air-dry. 

Can Shoes Be Washed in Washing Machine?

Yes, you can wash your shoes in the washing machine. But, it depends on the material of your shoes. Canvas shoes can be washed in the washing machine. But, fabric shoes with leather lining or embellishments cannot be washed in the washing machine. Most of your fabric shoes are designed using glue which cannot handle too much exposure to water. It is, therefore, not wise to wash your fabric shoes in the washing machine.

You can also wash your sports shoes in the washing machine. Remove the soles and the laces of your shoes before tossing them away in the washing machine. Pre-treat stains with an effective stain removing detergent. It helps lift the  stains easily. Balance the load of your shoes with old towels in the washing machine. Use cold water and run a gentle wash cycle. Wipe down the soles to get rid of fungus and other germs. Do not expose your shoes to high heat of the dryer. Let them dry naturally in the sun. For more details on how to wash your shoes in a washing machine, read here.

Your shoes can leave a lasting impression. Ensure that your impeccable dressing is not tarnished by stains on your shoes.