How To Clean White Shoes That Turned Yellow

Introduction: The Problem of Yellowed White Shoes

We’ve all been there. You invest in a sparkling pair of white shoes, and they look great—for a while. Over time, though, they gradually start turning yellow. It’s frustrating and can even make you think about buying a new pair. But before you do that, let’s explore some handy ways to clean your yellowed shoes and bring them back to their original, gleaming white.

Why Do White Shoes Turn Yellow?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why white shoes turn yellow in the first place. Mostly, white shoes discolor due to dirt, scuffs, and exposure to elements like rain and sunshine. Furthermore, when you wash them, residue from detergents can cause yellowing. But fear not! Now let’s discuss how to fix it.

Materials You Will Need

Firstly, you should gather your cleaning supplies. For most methods, you’ll need:

1. A soft brush or an old toothbrush
2. Liquid detergent
3. Baking soda
4. White vinegar
5. A clean cloth
6. Warm water

Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar Magic

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with two tablespoons of white vinegar. Stir them together until they form a thick paste.

Step 2: Apply and Scrub

Use an old toothbrush to apply this paste onto the yellowed areas of your shoes. Gently scrub the surface using circular motions.

Step 3: Let It Sit and Rinse

Let the paste sit on your shoes for 10 to 15 minutes. Afterward, rinse the shoes with warm water. You’ll likely notice an immediate difference!

Method 2: Detergent Wash

Step 1: Remove Excess Dirt

Before washing, use a soft brush to remove any loose dirt from your shoes.

Step 2: Soak in Detergent

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of liquid detergent. Soak your shoes in the bucket for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Wash and Dry

After soaking, wash your shoes as you would normally. Then, let them air dry, avoiding direct sunlight.

Method 3: Toothpaste Hack

Yes, you read that right. Toothpaste can also help whiten your shoes!

Step 1: Apply Toothpaste

Simply apply some white toothpaste (avoid gel-based ones) to the yellowed areas.

Step 2: Scrub and Rinse

Using an old toothbrush, scrub the areas where you applied toothpaste. Rinse with warm water and check the results.

Tips for Maintaining White Shoes

So you’ve managed to restore your shoes to their original white. Congratulations! But how do you keep them from turning yellow again? Here are some tips:

1. Avoid Puddles and Mud: Be cautious where you step to avoid dirtying your shoes.
2. Regular Cleaning: Clean them regularly, even if they don’t look dirty. A quick wipe-down can go a long way.
3. Proper Storage: Keep your shoes in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion: Time to Shine!

There you have it, folks! With these simple yet effective methods, you can save your favorite pair of white shoes from becoming a yellowed eyesore. Moreover, these tips are easy enough for anyone—even a primary school student—to understand and execute.

So next time you notice your white shoes turning yellow, don’t fret. Just remember these handy techniques, and you’ll keep those kicks looking as good as new.