7 Hacks to Clean White Shoes

Having a dog is wonderful, but anyone with a furry friend knows that keeping white sneakers clean is basically a full-time challenge. One minute your shoes are pristine, and the next, your pup’s muddy paws, drool, and mysterious “yard stains” have completely changed them.
Honestly, sometimes it feels like dogs see clean shoes as a dare. But the good news? White sneakers aren’t doomed. With a few practical tricks, you can bring them back to looking nearly brand-new, even after your dog decides to turn them into their personal canvas.
Here are 7 reliable ways to rescue your shoes without spending a fortune or losing your mind.

1. Soap & Water (The Classic Start)

Nothing beats the simplicity of soap and water. You don’t need any special cleaners—just grab what you have at home.
Here’s the approach:

• Mix a small amount of dish soap or laundry detergent with warm water.
• Dip a soft brush or old toothbrush into the mixture and scrub gently in circular motions.
• Wipe the shoes down with a damp cloth to remove any leftover soap.
• Let them air dry completely.
  This method is perfect for everyday dirt or mud after a walk in the park. It’s inexpensive, quick, and usually solves most minor stains without hassle.

2. Baking Soda + Vinegar (The Science Hack)

If you want a more powerful approach, the combination of baking soda and vinegar works like a little science experiment on your shoes. The fizzing action tackles stubborn stains effectively, especially on canvas sneakers like Converse or Vans—the kinds that dogs seem to love stepping on the most.
Here’s what to do:

• Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 1 cup of warm water to form a paste.
• Apply it directly to your shoes using a toothbrush.
• Let it dry completely; it will look crusty at first, but that’s normal.
• Brush off the residue to reveal shoes that look far cleaner.
  It’s cheap, safe, and surprisingly satisfying to watch stains disappear without harsh chemicals.

3. Magic Eraser (The Cheat Code)

For quick fixes, Magic Erasers are unbeatable. Think of them as a “Ctrl+Z” for scuffs and marks. They’re perfect for cleaning rubber soles and smooth leather parts that have been trampled by muddy paws.
A few tips:

• Stick to solid surfaces; avoid mesh or fabric unless you want your sneakers to come out looking rough.
• Keep one handy if your dog has a habit of brushing past your feet mid-walk—it saves a lot of frustration.
  With a Magic Eraser, minor marks can disappear in seconds without much effort.

4. Toothpaste (Yes, Really)

Surprisingly, regular white toothpaste is an effective spot cleaner for white shoes. Stick to the plain, non-gel kind without sparkles or stripes.
How to do it:

• Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the stain.
• Scrub gently with an old toothbrush—bonus points if it’s the one your dog tried to chew!
• Wipe it off with a damp cloth.
  Extra perk: your shoes get a fresh, minty scent—great for covering up any unexpected smells your pup might have brought in.

5. Bleach (The Nuclear Option)

Bleach is extremely effective for stubborn stains, but it comes with risks. If used incorrectly, it can yellow your sneakers instead of brightening them.
Here’s a safe method:

• Mix 1 part bleach with 5 parts water. Never go stronger.
• Put on gloves and scrub carefully with a toothbrush.
• Rinse thoroughly with water.
• Air dry in a well-ventilated area.
  Bleach is best reserved for shoes that have been through serious messes, like a muddy fetch session or a downpour. It’s powerful but should be used cautiously.

6. Washing Machine (The Lazy Hack)

Sometimes, scrubbing just isn’t worth it, and the washing machine becomes your best friend.
For best results:

• Remove laces and insoles first.
• Place your shoes in a pillowcase or laundry bag to prevent them from banging around.
• Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water.
• Always air dry—skip the dryer, or your shoes may warp.
  This works great for canvas and fabric sneakers, but leather and suede shoes should stay far away from the washing machine.

7. Suede-Specific Care (Because Dogs Love Ruining Suede)

White suede shoes are a brave choice if you have a dog, but they can be kept clean with care. Suede is delicate, so it requires a gentler approach.
Here’s the method:

• Use a suede brush to lift dirt and paw marks carefully.
• For stubborn spots, a suede eraser works wonders.
• Protect your shoes with a suede spray to make future cleaning easier.
  Rule of thumb: never soak suede in water. Wet suede combined with mud is a recipe for disaster.

Final Thoughts of Hacks to Clean White Shoes

Dogs and white sneakers are a challenging combination, but with these strategies, you don’t need to throw in the towel. From the simplicity of soap and water to the power of bleach, there are reliable options to get your shoes looking fresh again.
Personally, the baking soda and vinegar method is my go-to. It’s safe, affordable, and lets me relax even when my dog decides my sneakers are his personal playground.
Next time your pup tracks mud across your fresh shoes, don’t panic. Grab the right tool, follow the steps, and in no time, your sneakers will be back to white, ready for your next adventure.