Are your tennis shoes looking a little dingy? If your white canvas shoes are looking a bit yellow or gray, don’t worry – there are a few simple and effective ways to make them look as good as new. Whitening your sneakers is a surprisingly easy task, but one that might require some trial and error to find the best solution for your particular shoes and lifestyle. Read on to learn how to make your white tennis shoes white again!
Clean the Shoes
The first step to whitening your tennis shoes is to make sure they are clean. Dirt and grime can accumulate quickly, and can be difficult to remove if they are left on the shoes for too long. Start by washing your shoes with an old toothbrush and a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. Use a mild soap and warm water to get rid of any scuff marks or dirt. Rinse completely and towel dry.
Remove the Laces
Once your shoes are clean, remove the laces and set them aside. This will allow you to get a better clean on the areas around the eyelets, as well as the tongue of the shoe, which may have been neglected when the laces were in place.
Bleach the Shoes
Now that your shoes are clean and laces are removed, you can start to whiten them. One of the most effective ways to do this is to use bleach. Fill a bucket or sink with warm water and add a cup of bleach. Submerge the shoes and laces in the solution and let them soak for about 5 minutes.
Rinse and Air Dry
Once you’ve let the shoes soak, rinse them off with clean water and let them air dry. Do not put them in the dryer, as the heat can further damage the canvas.
Scrub the Shoes
If your shoes still aren’t as white as you’d like, you can try using a scrub brush or toothbrush to scrub away any remaining dirt. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as you could damage the material.
Use a Whitening Agent
If the scrubbing method isn’t working, you can try using a whitening agent specifically designed for use on canvas shoes. These agents are usually made of natural ingredients and are less harsh than bleach. Spray the agent onto the shoes and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off.
Try a Magic Eraser
Magic erasers are great for removing stubborn stains from your shoes. Wet the eraser and gently rub it over any stains or scuffs on the shoes to remove them.
Use a Shoe Whitener
If all else fails, you can try using a shoe whitener. These products are designed to whiten canvas shoes without damaging the material. Follow the directions on the package for best results.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve whitened your shoes, you can use a shoe protector to help them stay white. This will help to repel water and dirt, and keep your shoes looking great. You can also use a waterproof spray to help protect the shoes from water damage.
Conclusion
Making your white tennis shoes white again doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With a little bit of elbow grease and the right cleaning products, you can have your sneakers looking as good as new in no time. So don’t be discouraged if your white shoes are starting to look a bit dingy – with a few simple steps, you can get them looking brand new again.