How To Clean Shoes With Baking Soda
You might be hearing this to many TikTok videos, YouTube videos, or even blog posts. But, can baking soda really clean your shoes? Well, the answer is yes! Baking soda is not just for baking or deodorizing your fridge - it can also be used to clean your dirty and smelly shoes.
What is Baking Soda and How Does it Work?
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a natural substance that is not toxic and is commonly used in households.
Its cleaning power comes from the fact that it's a mild alkali and can cause dirt and grease to dissolve easily in water. The use of baking soda is not limited to just your kitchen; it's a versatile agent that can deodorize and clean white shoes effectively.
If you own white canvas shoes, baking soda is an excellent choice to maintain their pristine appearance. It can remove tough stains, eliminate odor, and restore your shoes' original color.
Read related article: How to Clean White Fabric Shoes the Right Way
To clean white shoes with baking soda, make a paste with water, apply it to your shoes, and let it sit for a while before wiping or rinsing it off. With baking soda, you can make your shoes look as good as new.
Here's a step by step guide on how to clean shoes with baking soda:
Gather Your Supplies
- Baking soda
- Water
- Bowl or container
- An old toothbrush or soft brush
Tools to Maintain White Shoes
- Water and stain repellent spray
- Deodorizing spray
- Shoe tree or newspaper
- Cleaning brush
Step 1: Remove the Lace and Insole
First, remove the lace and insole from your shoes to prevent them from getting wet or damaged. This will also allow you to clean the inside of the shoe more thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Soda Paste
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a little bit of warm water. Stir until it forms a paste. Be sure to break up any lumps and clumps. For tougher stains like grass stains, you can add white vinegar to the paste for extra cleaning power.
Step 3: Apply the Paste
Use an old toothbrush to apply the paste to your shoe. Make sure you spread the baking soda paste evenly over the shoe, paying extra attention to areas with scuff marks or stains.
Step 4: Scrub Your Sneaker
Scrub your sneaker with the brush, using a circular motion. This will help to whiten your shoes and remove any stubborn stains. Some stains may require a little more scrubbing than others.
Please note that baking soda is abrasive, so use it carefully to avoid damaging your shoes. When you are done scrubbing, rinse off the baking soda with warm water and let your shoes dry completely before wearing them again.
Step 5: Clean the Laces and Insoles
While waiting for your shoes to dry, you can clean the laces and insoles separately. Soak them in a mixture of warm water and baking soda for about 30 minutes before scrubbing them with a brush. Rinse with warm water and let them air dry completely.
Once everything is dry, you can put the laces and insoles back into your shoes.
How to Maintain Your White Shoes
Now, learning how to clean your white shoes with the use of baking soda is not enough to keep your footwear in optimal condition. You also need different tools and techniques to maintain their clean and fresh appearance.
Read related article: How To Remove Yellow Stains From White Shoes
Water and Stain Repellent Spray
Applying a water and stain repellent spray is a great way to protect your shoes from spills and dirt. Just like a dryer uses heat to remove moisture from your clothes, this spray works by creating a protective layer that prevents water and stains from penetrating the shoe fabric. Use it after cleaning your shoes to extend their lifespan and keep them looking new longer.
Deodorizing Spray
The same way a bleach solution kills bacteria on surfaces, a deodorizing spray is designed to remove odor from your shoes. Just spray it inside your shoes and let it work its magic. For extra-stinky shoes, you may require more applications. It's a great tool to keep your shoes smelling fresh.
Shoe Tree or Newspaper
A shoe tree or crumpled newspaper can help maintain your shoes' shape and absorb any residual moisture. Insert them into your shoes when not in use. Think of it as the "tilt" that keeps your shoes upright and prevents creases and wrinkles.
Cleaning Brush
A cleaning brush is a must-have for removing stubborn dirt and grime stuck in the nooks and crannies of your shoes. Whether it's a rage of dirt after a rainy day or a stubborn stain, a brush can help you get rid of it.
Extra Tips
For leather shoes, consider using a white shoe cream to restore the shoe's color and shine. Hydrogen peroxide can be used as an alternative to bleach for cleaning and can be particularly effective for white shoes. However, ensure you rinse it off thoroughly to prevent any potential damage to the material.
Closing Thoughts
Baking soda is an inexpensive and environmentally friendly option for cleaning your shoes. With just a few simple steps, you can restore your dirty white shoes to their original glory. Plus, with the right maintenance tools and techniques, you can keep them looking clean and fresh for a long time.
Consider investing in a good quality shoe cleaner, and make it a habit to clean your shoes regularly to avoid tough stains and buildup.
Stone and Clark's Sneaker Cleaning Kit comes with everything you need to keep your shoes spotless and smelling fresh.
