Six ways to bid adieu to sneaker stains
A pair of white sneakers is hot weather’s prime fashion accessory. It automatically adds a summer coolness to any outfit while keeping the look really fresh. Although, they’re bound to get dirty! Luckily, here are a few tips to keep your white kicks, well, white!
The key to keeping white kicks or any pair of sneakers looking brand new—is by applying a shoe protector spray, as soon as you unbox them! The spray forms an invisible layer that protects them from dirt, stains, and liquids from seeping into the fabric/material of your shoes. Some sprays come with sun protection—which help prevent premature fading from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Just spritz on some spray liberally, and let it air dry. Repeat the process once every three weeks!
The magic shoe erasers are really heaven sent! They help keep white shoes (or of any colour for that matter) clean. They’re great for spot-cleaning stains and blemishes. A white eraser is the best for white shoes, as the pink ones may leave a tint. These are also great for removing the scuff marks from the soles!
A cycle in the washing machine (in cold, delicate wash mode) with regular detergent will brighten dingy shoes. NOT recommended for your leather or suede ones though! This is a great cleaning option for white canvas sneakers or knit sneakers. Before throwing them into the machine, make sure to first eliminate stains if any, using a toothbrush and some soapy water. Then, put your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or old pillowcase to protect during the wash.
A word of caution: Do not dry it in the machine, as the heat from the dryer will harm the plastic bit and dissolve the glue on the sneakers. Let it air-dry! Always.
Get a medium-bristle shoe brush or an old toothbrush and brush your sneakers with light, soft, rapid strokes. This won’t damage fabric and helps work the cleaning solution deeper into the sneaker. Always be gentle with it, as brushing too hard may loosen fabrics and give your sneakers that worn-out look (especially true for knit, mesh, and canvas shoes.) Nobody wants a pair that looks like an unkempt Pomeranian puppy!
Pick up a water-based cleaner: They’re less harsh on fabrics as opposed to the chemical-based ones. Most of them are safe to use on all materials, including mesh and leather. Or simply use a mild hair shampoo.
TIP: Mix a bit of baking soda and toothpaste with lukewarm water and use a toothbrush to clean stains. This is a quick fix only for emergencies. Also clean your laces with a mild detergent and lukewarm water.
You only score sneakerhead points if you stack away off-duty kicks in shoe bags or boxes! Always store them indoors to protect them from sun exposure. You may not notice it, but there’s microscopic dust and dirt floating around everywhere, even in enclosed spaces like shoe closets/cupboards. Over time, shoe materials—especially knit, suede, and mesh—collect these dust particles, which eventually affect the overall appearance of your sneakers.
Deep-clean your white sneakers every two-three weeks to keep them white and in top form!
[Image Credits: Shutterstock]
Eva Pavithran
Vertical Head - Lifestyle