Introduction to Cleaning White Tennis Shoes
White tennis shoes are a staple in many people’s wardrobes. They’re comfortable, stylish, and perfect for a variety of occasions. But unfortunately, they can also be quite difficult to keep clean. White shoes are especially prone to yellowing, which can be a major eyesore.
If you’ve got a pair of white tennis shoes that have started to yellow, don’t despair! There are plenty of ways to clean them up and keep them looking good as new. Keep reading to find out how to clean white tennis shoes without them turning yellow.
What Causes White Shoes to Turn Yellow?
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s take a look at why white shoes turn yellow in the first place.
Sweat
Sweat is one of the most common causes of yellowing on white shoes. This is because sweat contains salt, which accumulates in the material of the shoes and can cause discoloration.
Oil and Grease
Oil and grease can also cause white shoes to yellow. These substances can seep into the material of the shoes and cause discoloration.
Sunlight
Sunlight can also cause white shoes to yellow over time. Ultraviolet radiation causes the material of the shoes to break down, resulting in a yellowed appearance.
How to Clean White Tennis Shoes Without Turning Yellow
Now that we know what causes white shoes to turn yellow, let’s take a look at how to clean them without causing discoloration. There are several methods you can use to keep your white tennis shoes looking good as new.
Method 1: Baking Soda Paste
The first method for cleaning white shoes is to make a paste out of baking soda and water. Mix together equal parts baking soda and water until it forms a thick paste. Spread the paste over the entire surface of the shoes and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Once the paste has had time to work its magic, use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste. Then, allow the shoes to air dry. Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can help remove dirt and grime without causing discoloration.
Method 2:White Vinegar Solution
The next method you can use to clean white tennis shoes is to make a solution out of white vinegar and water. Mix together 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of water in a bowl. Dip a cloth into the solution and use it to scrub the shoes.
The white vinegar will help remove dirt, grime, and sweat from the shoes. It also helps to prevent yellowing by breaking down the material of the shoes. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, allow the shoes to air dry.
Method 3: Shoe Cleaner
If you’d like to use a more specialized cleaner for your white tennis shoes, you can opt for a shoe cleaner. These cleaners are specifically designed to clean white shoes without causing discoloration.
Simply follow the instructions on the package and use the cleaner to scrub the shoes. Most shoe cleaners require you to scrub the shoes with a damp cloth or brush. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, allow the shoes to air dry.
Method 4: Toothpaste
Believe it or not, toothpaste can also be used to clean white tennis shoes. Simply apply a small amount of toothpaste to a damp cloth and use it to scrub the shoes. The toothpaste helps to break down dirt and grime, and helps to keep the shoes from yellowing.
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse the shoes with water and allow them to air dry.
Preventing Yellowing
The best way to keep your white shoes from yellowing is to take preventive measures. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Allow Shoes to Air Dry
Whenever possible, allow your shoes to air dry after they’ve been cleaned. This will help to prevent yellowing, as the material of the shoes will be less likely to break down.
Wash Shoes Regularly
It’s important to wash your shoes regularly to keep them looking good as new. Try to wash them at least once a month to keep dirt and grime from building up and causing discoloration.
Use a Waterproof Spray
A waterproof spray can help to protect your shoes from dirt, water, and other elements that can cause yellowing. Be sure to spray your shoes before wearing them to help keep them looking good.
Store Shoes Properly
When you’re not wearing your shoes, be sure to store them in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent yellowing and keep them looking good for longer.
Conclusion
Cleaning white tennis shoes without them turning yellow can be a tricky task. But with the right techniques and preventive measures, you can keep your shoes looking good as new.
Start by using baking soda paste, white vinegar solution, shoe cleaner, or toothpaste to scrub the shoes. Then, make sure to allow the shoes to air dry and take preventive measures such as using a waterproof spray and storing the shoes properly.
By following these tips, you can keep your white tennis shoes looking good for years to come.