How to Keep Your White Sneakers Looking Like New

White sneakers are a timeless staple, perfect for warmer days and casual outfits. But keeping them bright and clean? That can feel like a full-time job—unless you’ve got the right approach. The good news is you don’t need a fancy cleaning kit. In fact, everything you need is probably already in your cupboard.
Here’s how to clean white sneakers and keep them looking fresh without overcomplicating things.
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Everyday Products That Work Wonders
You don’t need to splurge on trendy TikTok cleaning products. A few basic items go a long way:
•    Dish soap and a toothbrush: A classic combo for scrubbing away grime.
•    Eraser sponges: Just like those orange-and-white ones online, generic versions do the same job. They’re great for tackling scuff marks and dirt on rubber midsoles.
•    White gum erasers: Ideal for suede sneakers—gentle and effective.
•    Sneaker wipes or baby wipes: Perfect for quick clean-ups on the go.
•    Shoe whitener: Good for leather and synthetic shoes, especially to refresh worn-looking areas.
•    New laces: Sometimes the easiest fix is swapping out your old, dingy shoelaces for a fresh pair.
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Machine Washing (Yes, You Can!)
For canvas and mesh sneakers, the washing machine can be a lifesaver. Just follow these steps to avoid damage:
1.    Remove laces and insoles: Pop them in a mesh bag and wash separately.
2.    Pre-clean: Knock off loose dirt and pretreat stains with a mild stain remover.
3.    Load with padding: Add towels or blankets to buffer the shoes and prevent banging around.
4.    Cold, gentle cycle only: Hot water and high-speed spins can ruin sneakers.
5.    Air-dry only: Never toss them in the dryer—let them dry naturally, stuffing with towels to keep their shape.
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How to Hand-Clean Sneakers in Detail
If you’ve got premium kicks or just prefer to keep things hands-on, here’s how to detail your sneakers:
1.    Remove the laces: So you can clean every nook and cranny.
2.    Dry-brush: Use a soft brush to sweep off dry dirt before adding moisture.
3.    Clean the uppers: Mix mild soap with water and gently scrub using a brush or cloth.
4.    Scrub the midsoles: This is where eraser sponges shine—rub out marks and stains.
5.    Rinse & dry: Either rinse with cool water or wipe with a damp cloth. Air-dry only.
6.    Re-lace: Once dry, put your laces back in—or grab a new pair for a fresh look.
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Final Tips
•    Avoid bleach—it can cause yellowing and degrade materials.
•    Don’t skip the pre-cleaning steps; dirt turns to mud once wet.
•    Regular light cleaning is easier than waiting for your sneakers to get filthy.
•    Store your sneakers in a dry place, out of direct sunlight, to prevent discoloration.
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Wrap-Up
White sneakers don’t have to be high maintenance. With a few simple tools and habits, you can keep your favourite pair looking box-fresh all season long—no sneaker cleaning subscription needed.