Dirty white sneakers: methods to clean them and make them look like new again

There are some outfits that wouldn't have the same impact without having white sneakers to complete them: sneakers are a real wild card, so to speak, in anyone's wardrobe. Whether they are canvas, leather or imitation leather, elegant or sporty, sneakers are must-haves that combine perfectly with an infinite number of different looks and styles.

However, sneakers also have the disadvantage of getting dirty quickly: dust or dirt in the street, rain, the rubbing of the sole against some surface or the occasional miss-steps of other pedestrians are all common occurrences that leave marks on sneakers. The lower edges get dirty first, but the uppers can get dirty too. Very often, however, it is possible to clean sneakers properly. Read on to find out more:

Creativo

Canvas sneakers or those with mesh inserts:-

These can be washed in the washing machine, but there are risks attached to this. Alternatively, try the following cleaning method - equip yourself with:

• A toothbrush
• Dish soap or a mild laundry soap
• Microfibre cloths
• Bleach
• A Magic Eraser

Here's how to proceed:

• Remove the laces;
• Brush off the bulk of the dirt;
• In a bowl, pour warm water and a few drops of soap. If you want, you can also add a few drops of bleach;
• Wet the cloth and wring it out well, passing it over the parts to be cleaned (remember to wear gloves, especially if you use bleach);
• Scrub the dirtiest parts with the toothbrush;
• For the rubber edges and finishes, use the Magic Eraser. This should always be wet and squeezed out before rubbing on the marks and scuffs;
• Make sure there is no soap residue on the uppers by rinsing/dabbing with a clean, damp cloth;
• Hand wash the laces with soap (and possibly a little bleach);
• Let the sneakers air dry. You can also fill them with newspaper so as to absorb any internal humidity and keep the shape of the footwear.

Leather or imitation leather shoes:-

These cannot be washed in the washing machine. You will need:

• A leather cleaner cream. Alternatively, use a delicate soap (Marseilles soap, for example)
• A shoe brush
• Microfibre cloths

How to proceed:

• Remove the laces and then brush off the bulk of the dirt and dust;
• With the help of a clean cloth, distribute the cream over the shoes and clean by rubbing gently. You can also use special brushes with soft bristles;
• Moisten another soft cloth, and remove any excess cream;
• Immediately use a third cloth to dry off and polish.

For the edges of the soles, if in rubber, you can always use a Magic Eraser. Alternatively, use a paste of water and baking soda and scrub with an old toothbrush.

Ready to make your shoes look like new again?