Clean white sneakers: back to bright white fast

With the right approach you can get white sneakers bright again quickly—without spreading stains or damaging materials. Below you’ll find a proven routine by material, safe ways to clean soles, and smart tips to keep your sneakers white. Whenever possible, use a pH-neutral cleaner such as the Hypedpair Sneaker Cleaning Kit, suitable for leather, suede, nubuck, mesh and canvas. One bottle lasts for around 100 cleans and is 99% natural. Want to start off right with the proper tools? Check our complete sneaker cleaning kits.

Quick start: basic routine for any white sneaker

1. Remove laces and insoles — this lets you reach everywhere and prevents water damage inside.
2. Dry brush — remove sand and dust with a soft brush to avoid scratching.
3. Cleaning mix — lukewarm water with a few drops of mild sneaker cleaner. Work with two cloths: one wet, one dry.
4. Clean the upper — use a soft brush or microfiber cloth in small circles. Don’t soak.
5. Edges and soles — use a slightly firmer brush or an old toothbrush. Work from light to more intensive.
6. Wipe and dry — remove foam with a clean, slightly damp cloth and air dry at room temperature, out of direct sun.
7. Protect — after drying, spray with a protective spray for white sneakers to help keep them white.

Want extra guidance by material and technique? See our guide: cleaning sneakers (step-by-step).

Tip: The Hypedpair Sneaker Cleaning Kit includes serum, brush and microfiber cloth for a complete, safe clean.

Cleaning fabric and canvas sneakers

Canvas and mesh absorb dirt and moisture quickly. Use little water and a mild cleaner. First brush off dry dirt. Then mix lukewarm water with cleaner and gently work it into the upper. For spots, use a paste of baking soda and water—apply, let sit briefly, then brush out gently. Toothpaste is only suitable for rubber soles, not for fabric. Never rinse under the tap; wipe away residue with a slightly damp cloth and let air dry. Avoid chlorine- or acid-based products on textiles to prevent yellowing.

Cleaning leather and suede sneakers

Leather

Clean white leather sneakers with a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth. Work in small circles with minimal moisture, focusing on seams and the toe. Wipe off with a clean cloth and let dry naturally. Finish with a colorless leather cream if desired for nourishment and an even sheen. Never machine wash—leather can shrink or crack.

Suede and nubuck

Always start dry with suede: use a suede brush to lift the nap and loosen stains. Treat stubborn spots with a suede eraser or a very lightly foaming specialty cleaner—use as little moisture as possible. Let dry and brush the nap back. Impregnate afterward to prevent water marks.

Cleaning white soles and de-yellowing edges

Rubber soles turn dingy or yellow quickly. Start with a pH-neutral cleaner and a toothbrush to remove loose dirt. For yellowed edges, use a non-gel toothpaste or a baking soda paste—apply thinly, let sit 10 minutes, then scrub thoroughly. Use bleach only sparingly and only on rubber, never on textiles or leather, and always heavily diluted. For stubborn yellowing, 3% hydrogen peroxide gel on the midsole works: apply thinly, wrap with plastic, let sit 30–60 minutes, then clean thoroughly. For targeted midsole/outsole cleaning, consider a shoe-sole cleaner. Always test any method on an inconspicuous spot first.

Cleaning laces

Laces get dirty fastest. Brush off dry dirt and soak 15–30 minutes in lukewarm water with mild detergent or a bit of baking soda. Rinse afterward. You can also wash laces in a mesh bag at 30°C with towels. Use bleach only very diluted and not on colored stitching. Air dry—no dryer. Are your laces yellowed or worn? Check our white shoelaces for an instant fresh look.

Washing machine — yes or no?

White canvas or sturdy mesh trainers can often go in the washing machine. Remove dirt, place shoes and laces in separate laundry bags, choose 20–30°C, low spin and a liquid, mild detergent. Wash with towels to cushion and let air dry. Do not machine wash leather, suede, and models like most Nike Air Force 1—risk of damage and glue failure. Short on time or unsure about the material? Consider having sneakers cleaned by a specialist.

Prevention: keep white shoes white

• Protect — impregnate new and freshly cleaned sneakers.
• Routine — wipe briefly with a slightly damp cloth after wear.
• Drying — stuff with paper or use shoe trees, away from heat and sun.
• Alternate — rotate pairs so sweat and dirt don’t build up.
• Safe cleaning — use a mild, material-safe cleaner like the Hypedpair kit.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get my white sneakers white again?

Follow the basics: dry brush, clean with a pH-neutral cleaner, target the soles and wash laces separately. Let dry naturally and protect with spray. This brings sneakers back to white without damage.

Can you clean shoes with baking soda?

Yes, baking soda works well on fabric and rubber for stains and odors. Make a paste with water, let sit briefly and brush out. Don’t use it on leather or suede and always wipe down afterward with a damp cloth.

How do I get my white Skechers white again?

Many Skechers are mesh or textile: hand wash with mild cleaner or wash in a mesh bag at 20–30°C. Don’t tumble dry. Always clean leather versions by hand and protect with spray.

Is vinegar good for white shoes?

Diluted vinegar can help with odor and light stains on textiles, but don’t use it on leather or suede. Always test on an inconspicuous spot and wipe down afterward with a slightly damp cloth.