How to Clean Shoes at Home: Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your shoes clean not only makes them look better but also extends their life. This guide covers everyday cleaning for sneakers, canvas, leather, and synthetic shoes using items you likely already have. Before you start, remove the laces and insoles, and brush off loose dirt. Check the care label inside the shoe for any specific instructions from the manufacturer.

What You’ll Need

Soft-bristled brush (old toothbrush works well)
Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
Baking soda (for tough stains and odor)
White vinegar (for stubborn marks)
Clean cloths or microfiber towels
Warm water
Optional: shoe tree or crumpled newspaper

Step-by-Step

Remove laces and insoles. Take out the laces and any removable insoles. This lets you clean the tongue and inside of the shoe properly and prevents water from getting trapped.
Brush off loose dirt. Use a dry brush to gently remove mud, dust, and debris from the entire shoe. Pay extra attention to the tread and crevices.
Prepare a cleaning solution. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap or laundry detergent with warm water in a bowl. For white or canvas shoes, you can make a paste of 1 part baking soda to 1 part water.
Scrub the exterior. Dip your brush into the solution and scrub the shoe in circular motions. Focus on stained areas. Avoid soaking the shoe—dampen the brush rather than submerging the shoe.
Clean the soles and edges. Use the brush to scrub the rubber sole and the white midsole. For stubborn scuffs, apply a bit of baking soda paste and scrub gently.
Wipe off residue. Dampen a clean cloth with plain water and wipe away any soap or baking soda residue. Repeat with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.
Clean the insides (if needed). For odor or stains inside, sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, let it sit for 15 minutes, then shake it out. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
Dry properly. Stuff shoes with crumpled newspaper or a shoe tree to help them hold shape and absorb moisture. Let them air-dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Never use a dryer.

Common Mistakes

Machine washing shoes: It can damage glue, materials, and shape. Avoid unless the manufacturer explicitly says it’s safe.
Using bleach on colored shoes: Bleach can discolor or weaken fabrics. Stick to mild soap and baking soda.
Drying on a radiator or in the sun: Heat can warp shoes, crack leather, and cause glue to fail.
Scrubbing too hard: Aggressive brushing can damage delicate materials like mesh or suede.
Forgetting to remove laces and insoles: This leads to trapped dirt and water, causing odor and mildew.

Tips

For suede or nubuck, use a special suede brush and eraser instead of water.
For leather shoes, use a leather cleaner and conditioner after cleaning to keep them supple.
For white shoes, a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can brighten them, but test on a small area first.
To prevent future stains, apply a water and stain repellent spray designed for your shoe material.
Clean shoes regularly—a quick wipe after each wear prevents buildup.

Troubleshooting

Stains remain after cleaning: Make a fresh baking soda paste and apply it to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub gently. For oil-based stains, use a drop of dish soap directly on the spot.
Shoes smell after drying: Sprinkle baking soda inside and leave overnight, then shake out. If the smell persists, wipe the inside with a cloth dipped in a 1:1 water and white vinegar solution, then air-dry.
Yellow stains on white shoes: These often come from using too much soap or not rinsing well. Re-clean with plain water and dry in the shade. Sunlight can help bleach white shoes naturally, but too much heat can yellow them.
Leather shoes got water spots: Wipe with a damp cloth, then apply a small amount of leather conditioner. Allow to dry naturally.
Shoes are still wet after 24 hours: Remove the stuffing and replace with fresh newspaper. Keep them in a well-ventilated area. If they remain wet, they may have been soaked too deeply—patience is key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put shoes in the washing machine?

Only if the care label says it’s safe. Even then, use a gentle cycle with cold water and air-dry. Many shoes get damaged by the machine’s agitation.

How do I clean suede shoes?

Use a suede brush to remove dirt, then a suede eraser for stains. Avoid water. For deep cleaning, use a suede-specific cleaner.

How do I remove scuff marks from leather shoes?

Gently rub the scuff with a soft cloth or a pencil eraser. For stubborn marks, use a leather cleaner or a tiny amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab, then condition.

How often should I clean my shoes?

It depends on how often you wear them. A quick wipe after each wear and a deeper clean every 2-4 weeks is a good routine for everyday shoes.

Can I use toothpaste to clean white shoes?

Yes, white toothpaste (not gel) can work on scuffs and stains. Apply a small amount with an old toothbrush, scrub gently, then wipe off with a damp cloth.

How do I dry shoes quickly without damaging them?

Remove laces and insoles, stuff with newspaper, and place in a well-ventilated area. Avoid heat sources. You can also use a fan to circulate air.

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