DIY Shoe Cleaning Solutions
DIY Shoe Cleaning Solutions

Keeping your shoes looking clean and new can be challenging, especially when wearing them frequently.

However, you don’t have to break the bank by constantly buying new shoes. With a few simple homemade shoe cleaner solutions, you can clean your shoes using everyday household items, making them look as good as new.

In this article, we will show you how to make your shoe cleaner using items like baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean different types of shoes.

Review contents

How to Make Homemade Shoe Cleaner

You do not need expensive shoe-cleaning products to clean your shoes. You can make a cleaning solution at home with a few simple ingredients.

The first ingredient you will need is baking soda. Mix baking soda with water to make a paste, and use this paste to clean your shoes.

Another option is to mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, which is particularly effective for cleaning leather and canvas shoes. You can also add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture to enhance its cleaning properties.

Cleaning Canvas Shoes

Canvas shoes are perfect for casual wear but tend to attract dirt and stains easily. Remove the laces and soak them in warm, soapy water to clean canvas shoes. Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to make a paste.

Use a toothbrush to apply the paste on the canvas and scrub the shoes in circular motions. Rinse the shoes with cold water and air-dry them overnight.

Cleaning Leather Shoes

Leather shoes are an investment, so taking care of them is essential. To clean leather shoes, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, and add a few drops of dish soap. Dip a clean cloth into the mixture and wring out the excess liquid.

Use a damp cloth to clean the shoes in a circular motion gently. Be careful not to over-soak the shoes, which may damage the leather. Once cleaned, air-dry the shoes overnight.

Cleaning Suede Shoes

Suede shoes require a bit more care and attention than other types of shoes. To clean suede shoes, use a soft-bristled brush to brush off any dirt or dust.

Next, dip a clean cloth into white vinegar and gently rub the stained area.

After this, use a suede brush to brush the shoes in one direction until the nap feels smooth. Be sure to allow them to air-dry once cleaned.

How to Clean White Shoes

White shoes look great when clean, but keeping them white can be challenging, especially if you wear them frequently. Here are a few different methods to keep your white sneakers looking new:

Baking Soda and White Vinegar Method

Mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar to make a paste. Apply the paste to the shoe stains using a toothbrush and rub gently.

Wipe away the paste with a clean or damp cloth and rinse with cold water. Allow the shoes to air-dry, and they should look like new.

Dish Soap and Toothbrush Method

You can also use dish soap to clean your white shoes. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Dip a toothbrush into the mixture and gently brush the shoes. Afterward, remove the soap and dirt with a clean, damp cloth.

Make a paste of baking soda and water for tough stains and apply it to the stains before scrubbing with the toothbrush. Rinse the shoes with cold water and let them air dry.

Laundry Detergent and Cloth Method

Mix a small amount of laundry detergent with water to make a cleaning solution. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wipe the shoes. After this, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the detergent and dirt. Rinse the shoes with cold water and let them air dry.

How to Clean Running Shoes

Running shoes get a lot of wear and tear, so it is essential to keep them clean to ensure they last longer. Here are three different methods to clean running shoes:

Scrubbing with Baking Soda and Detergent

Mix a tablespoon baking soda with a drop of detergent and water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the shoes using a toothbrush and scrub gently. Rinse the shoes with cold water and let them air dry.

Washing Machine Method

You can also clean running shoes in the washing machine. Wash them on a delicate cycle using cold water and a gentle detergent. Put the shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase to protect them, and add some towels to balance the load.

Damp Cloth and Circular Motion Method

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and apply the mixture to a clean cloth. Wring out the excess and use the damp cloth to clean the shoes in a circular motion. Once clean, pat the shoes dry with a clean cloth and let them air-dry.

How to Clean Different Types of Shoes

The following is a list of different types of shoes and how to clean them:

Canvas Shoes

To clean canvas shoes, follow the above steps under Cleaning Canvas Shoes.

Leather Shoes

To clean leather shoes, follow the above steps under Cleaning Leather Shoes.

Suede Shoes

To clean suede shoes, follow the above steps under Cleaning Suede Shoes.

Patent Leather Shoes

Mix equal white vinegar and warm water and dip a soft cloth into the solution. Wring out the excess liquid and use the damp cloth to clean the shoes. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and let the shoe air dry.

Tennis Shoes

To clean tennis shoes, remove the laces and wash them separately. Rinse the shoes with cold water and let them air dry. Then, follow the steps listed above under Cleaning White Shoes.

How to Remove Stains and Scuffs from Shoes

Stains and scuffs can be tough to remove, but here are a few effective methods:

Baking Soda and Toothbrush Method

Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a drop of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the stained or scuffed area using a toothbrush and scrub gently. Rinse with cold water and let the shoe air dry.

White Vinegar and Damp Cloth Method

Dip a clean cloth into white vinegar and wring out the excess liquid. Rinse with cold water and let the shoe air dry. Use the damp cloth to clean the stained or scuffed area in a circular motion.

Air Dry Method

Fresh scuffs can often be removed by allowing shoes to air dry. For deeper stains, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cloth and gently rub the area until the stain fades.

FAQ – DIY Shoe Cleaning Solutions

Q: What is a DIY shoe cleaner?

A: A DIY shoe cleaner is a homemade cleaning solution used to clean shoes without expensive commercial cleaners.

Q: What do I need to make my shoe cleaner?

A: You can make your shoe cleaner using household ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, dish soap, laundry detergent, and hydrogen peroxide.

Q: How do I clean my shoes using baking soda?

A: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Scrub the paste onto your shoes with a toothbrush, then clean them with a damp cloth.

Q: Can I clean my canvas shoes with baking soda and vinegar?

A: Yes, you can mix baking soda and vinegar to make a cleaning solution that can be used to clean canvas shoes.

Q: How can I make my white shoes look new?

A: You can make your white shoes look new by cleaning them with baking soda and water. Scrub your shoes with the solution using a toothbrush, and then wipe them clean with a damp cloth.

Q: Can I clean my leather shoes without damaging them?

A: You can clean your leather shoes using water and dish soap. Be sure to test a small area first before cleaning the entire shoe.

Q: How do I clean my suede shoes?

A: Use a suede cleaning kit to clean your suede shoes. Brush off any dirt with a suede brush, then use the cleaner according to the kit instructions.

Q: Is there a way to clean shoes without using any chemicals?

A: You can clean your shoes using water and a brush or a mixture of baking soda and cornstarch and then brush it off.

Q: Can I clean my white cloth shoes with a DIY cleaning solution?

A: You can clean white cloth shoes using baking soda and water.

Q: How often should I clean my shoes?

A: The frequency of shoe cleaning depends on how often you wear them and the conditions in which they are worn. It’s recommended to clean your shoes thoroughly before and after every use to keep them in good condition.

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Nick Haden
Hi there! My name is Nick Haden, and I am thrilled to share my passion for shoe cleaning with you at shoescleaning.net. As a renowned shoe cleaning expert, I have dedicated years to perfecting my craft and helping people maintain the longevity and beauty of their favorite footwear. With my expertise, I have received numerous accolades and rewards, including certifications as a certified aromatherapist. This unique background allows me to bring a holistic approach to shoe cleaning, combining my knowledge of essential oils and their beneficial properties with effective cleaning techniques. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with various shoe brands, professional athletes, and fashion enthusiasts, helping them restore and revitalize their shoes to their former glory. I have also been featured in several publications and online platforms, showcasing my expertise and sharing valuable shoe cleaning tips. Beyond my professional achievements, I am passionate about providing practical advice and step-by-step guides that can empower shoe owners to take care of their footwear properly. My writing philosophy is centered around simplifying complex shoe cleaning processes, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience level. When you explore shoescleaning.net, expect to find a wealth of information, from general shoe cleaning tips to specific advice for different shoe materials. I believe that maintaining clean and well-cared-for shoes not only enhances their appearance but also prolongs their lifespan, saving you money in the long run. I am delighted to be your go-to resource for all things shoe cleaning. Explore the site, discover helpful tips and tricks, and let me guide you on your shoe cleaning journey. Remember, a little care goes a long way! Thank you for visiting shoescleaning.net, and I look forward to helping you keep your shoes in pristine condition. Best regards, Nick Haden certified aromatherapist and cleaning expert