How to Clean your White Trainers

Dirty trainers? Scuffed sneakers? Have you got some white trainers that are looking more grey than box-fresh these days? We thought you might, so we’ve put together a simple guide on how to clean white trainers and, more importantly, how to keep them looking fresh.

The best cleaning method will depend on whether your trainers are made from leather, fabric, canvas, mesh or suede. Follow the steps below and your sad-looking trainers should be looking spick and span again in no time.

Before you begin, check the manufacturer’s care label and test any cleaning product on a small, hidden area. Avoid soaking your trainers, as too much water can affect their shape, finish or adhesive.

Okay, so you've accepted you've got a dirty-trainer problem. What can you do about it?

Remove Loose Dirt

 First things first, knock off anything that'll submit to brute force. Sounds harsh but it's gotta be done. Return outdoors to the scene of the crime and bash those shoes together until all the clumps of mud and grass are back where they belong- on the ground. We also recommend apologising to your trainers, it's not their fault they're mucky- it's yours.

Remove and Clean the Laces

After repenting for your footwear-parenting sins, we'd suggest you address the laces. Chances are that if you've got mucky soles and uppers, you've got grey laces. Do you remember how white they were when you first tied them up and walked around with the extra spring in your step of a fresh pair of trainers? Of course you don't- you've battered them since and can't we tell. To take a trip down memory lane, we recommend taking the laces out, and soaking them in a stain remover solution then hanging them out to dry. Once dry, slip 'em back into the eyelets and maybe consider getting them some therapy. They've been through a lot.

Clean the Trainers

Now it's time for the big job- the outside of the trainers. Like shoes, this isn't a one-size-fits-all situation and will require some care and consideration. Something that judging by the state of your trainers, you don't know much about. We've separated the guide into three sections: Leather, Canvas and Suede.

Cleaning White Leather Trainers

Leather: If you've got some worn-out leather trainers on your hands the key is being gentle. Never use anything harsh like washing detergent on leather as it can be too harsh and make your problem worse. Instead, make a weak, and we mean weak, solution of washing up liquid and gently rub the leather with a cloth to get off any grime.

 How to Clean White Gym Shoes and Mesh Trainers

White gym shoes often contain mesh, knitted fabric, synthetic panels and glued sections, so hand-cleaning is usually the safest approach. Remove the laces and insoles, then brush away loose dirt. Use a soft cloth or brush with a small amount of mild soapy water to gently clean the upper. 

Avoid pressing heavily into mesh or knitted material, as this may stretch or damage the fibres. Wipe away the cleaning solution with a separate damp cloth and allow the shoes, laces and insoles to dry completely before wearing them again.

Cleaning White Suede Trainers

Suede: The number one rule with suede is no water, like- ever. Suede is absorbent so any water applied will actually soak stains in to the trainers, and then you're really stuffed. Instead, grab that dry brush from earlier (comes in handy doesn't it?) to remove surface stains and mud. Once the obvious has been removed, go in with a suede rubber and some rubbing alcohol/suede cleaning solution to get out tougher stains. The motto with suede is gently does it.

 Clean the Rubber Soles and Toe Caps

Once you've navigated the outer of your trainers, its time to deal with the rubber soles and toecaps. Give 'em a scrub with the good ol' washing up liquid solution, using a cloth for smoother soles and a toothbrush for more textured styles. Just make sure your cleaning utensil doesn't end up back in your bathroom caddy. If stains are particularly stubborn, try a Magic Eraser and carefully scrub the trims and caps to get them shining.

Always Air-Dry Your Trainers 

You should always air-dry your trainers unless the manufacturer explicitly states otherwise.

Tumble dryers, radiators and hairdryers can expose trainers to excessive heat, potentially warping their shape, weakening adhesives and damaging rubber, leather or synthetic materials. If the rubber soles break off in the dryer, it can even become a fire hazard. 

After pulling your trainers back from the edge, there’s no need to risk it all for a quick-drying solution. Leave them somewhere well ventilated and allow them to dry naturally.

Dry the Laces and Insoles Separately

Open the tongues to improve airflow and leave the laces and removable insoles to dry separately. Reunite them only once every part is completely dry.

Pro tip: Loosely stuff your trainers with clean white paper towels to help them hold their shape and absorb moisture. Replace the paper when it becomes damp.

Now that you’ve got your trainers looking box-fresh and blindingly white again, it’s time to help prevent new marks from setting in.

The best way to keep white trainers clean is to deal with dirt quickly and protect the material before it becomes heavily stained.

Use a Suitable Protector Spray

Use a material-appropriate repellent spray to add an invisible layer of protection against light rain, dirt and everyday marks.

Follow the product instructions, apply it in a well-ventilated area and test it on a small hidden section first. As an extra bonus, repellent spray can also be used on hats and apparel meaning you can spray it on all your garments and step out in any weather feeling safe and sound.

Deal With Fresh Marks Quickly

Fresh marks are normally easier to remove than stains that have been left to settle. Keep suitable trainer-cleaning wipes in your bag for quick touch-ups when you’re out and about.
Only use wipes on materials approved by the product manufacturer. Avoid using general wipes on suede or other delicate finishes.

Check the Weather

Speaking of weather, one of the easiest ways to protect your favourite white trainers is to check the forecast before wearing them.

We all know how unpredictable British weather can be, so before stepping out in suede or fresh white fabric trainers, double-check that the clouds aren’t holding a nasty surprise for later.

Store Your Trainers Properly

Investing in a shoe rack or suitable storage space can help prevent your trainers from becoming scuffed and damaged at home.
Keep pairs stored separately rather than piled on top of each other. As an extra perk, you’ll also be able to see them more clearly when deciding what to wear. It’s a win-win.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Is the Best Way to Wash White Trainers?

Hand-cleaning is the safest general option. Remove loose dirt, take out the laces and clean the upper using a mild solution suitable for the trainer’s material. Only use a washing machine when the manufacturer’s care label confirms that it is safe.

Can You Use Bleach on White Trainers? 

Avoid using bleach as a general trainer cleaner. It may weaken fabric, affect coloured details and cause some rubber components to discolour. Use a mild cleaner designed for the trainer’s material instead.

Why Have My White Trainers Turned Yellow After Cleaning?

Yellowing may be caused by cleaning-product residue, bleach, excessive heat, direct sunlight or natural material ageing. Remove cleaning solutions thoroughly and leave the trainers to air-dry away from direct heat.

How Often Should You Clean White Trainers? 

Deal with fresh marks as soon as possible and carry out a deeper clean when dirt begins to build up. Regular light cleaning is normally better for your trainers than repeatedly soaking or machine-washing them.