How To Clean White Fabric Shoes That Turned Yellow?

White fabric shoes are a timeless classic that never goes out of style. But when those shoes turn yellow, it can be frustrating, especially if you've spent a pretty penny on them.

Don't worry! With a little know-how, you can restore your yellowed white fabric shoes to their former glory.

Step-By-Step Instruction To Clean White Fabric Shoes:

Step 1: Remove The Laces.

Why do you need to remove the laces of your shoes before washing them?

This is because washing your shoes with the laces still attached can lead to stains or discoloration, which can detract from their appearance.

By taking the time to remove the laces and washing them separately, you can ensure that they receive a thorough clean without damaging the rest of the shoe. This step is particularly important if your shoelaces are made of a different material than the shoe, as they may require special care during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Brush Off Any Loose Dirt.

Removing any loose debris before you begin scrubbing them is important to ensure that your shoes are thoroughly cleaned and any loose particles are removed.

To gently remove dirt and debris, you can use a clean cloth or a soft-bristled brush.

Remember to avoid being too rough with the scrubbing, as this could damage the fabric and make your shoes look worse. Instead, be gentle and take your time to remove any dirt and debris from the surface of the shoes before moving on to the next step in the cleaning process.

Step 3: Create A Cleaning Solution.

You can create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water, which can be used to remove yellowed areas of shoes.

To do so, create a paste with the mixture and apply it to the affected regions of the shoes. Allow the paste to sit for approximately 30 minutes before removing it. Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that effectively eliminates odors and stains from fabrics. By using this solution, you can easily restore the shine of your shoes and keep them looking new and clean.

Step 4: Scrub The Shoes.

Focus your circular scrubbing motion on the yellowed areas of the shoes and continue until you notice the stains beginning to fade.

You need to be careful not to scrub too vigorously, as this could damage the material of the shoes. By utilizing a mild cleaning technique, you can efficiently remove the yellowed stains from your shoes without harming them.

Step 5: Rinse the shoes.

Rinsing is an essential step in the cleaning process as it ensures that there is no leftover baking soda paste on the shoes and removes any residue that may be present.

When rinsing, be sure you use cold water, as hot water can cause damage to certain shoe materials. To prevent any potential harm or discoloration to the shoes, it's crucial to thoroughly rinse them and make sure that all of the paste is removed.

Step 6: Air-dry The Shoes.

To help maintain the shape of the shoes as they dry, you are advised to fill them with fresh towels first.

This can prevent the shoes from deforming or losing their structural integrity. Once the shoes have been packed, find a cool and dry area where you can leave them to air-dry naturally.

Remember to keep your shoes away from heat or direct sunlight since it can cause the material to fade or become damaged.

To speed up the drying process, you must avoid using a hairdryer or other heat sources since this can cause the shoes to shrink or suffer other damage.  

Before you reuse the shoes, ensure that they have completely air-dried.

Step 7: Optional: Use A Whitening Agent.

If you've followed the previous steps and your shoes are still yellowed, don't worry. There is an optional step that you can take to whiten them further. You can use a whitening agent like hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar to brighten your shoes.

Start by creating a solution using equal parts of the whitening agent and water, and make sure to thoroughly saturate the yellowed areas of the shoes with the solution. Allow the solution to sit for about 30 minutes to give it time to penetrate the stains. After that, rinse the solution off the shoes with cold water and let them air dry as usual.

" What Are The Small Tips To Keep My White Shoes Clean And White? "

1. Wipe Them Down Regularly.

After each wear, clean your shoes with a damp cloth or wet wipes to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on them.

2. Use A Protective Spray.

You can manually apply a protective spray like Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Waterproof Spray or Scotchgard Waterproof Fabric Spray to your shoes before wearing them to help repel dirt and stains.

3. Store your Shoes Properly.

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming discolored or damaged.

4. Avoid Wearing Your Shoes In Bad Weather.

Try to avoid wearing your white shoes on rainy or muddy days.

Your white shoes deserve to shine bright like the day you first got them, even if they have turned yellow over time. By taking the time to properly clean and care for them, you can give them a new lease on life and step out in style once again!