Beautiful white shoes can be quite a hassle to keep clean. They easily get dirty after just a few wears, and the process of cleaning them up can be laborious.
What's more frustrating is that even after washing and drying, the shoe uppers can turn yellow. These issues are perhaps the most distressing challenges faced by owners of white shoes.
The yellowing of white shoes is actually a result of the shoe material itself, and it cannot be simply brushed off. The original fabric used in the production of clothing and footwear often lacks the desired level of whiteness.
To achieve the desired pristine white color, manufacturers employ chemical bleaching and physical color enhancement techniques, incorporating various agents. However, the effectiveness of these treatments is not permanent.
What can be done when white shoes turn yellow?
1. Thorough cleaning method.
If the yellowing occurs during the process of cleaning the shoes with soap or laundry detergent, it is likely due to insufficient rinsing, leaving behind residues that cause the yellowing. In this case, it is recommended to wash the shoes multiple times and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated, cool place, preferably avoiding direct sunlight.
2. Using toothpaste.
If the issue is caused by the detergent used, such as alkaline laundry detergent, it is advisable to switch to a neutral detergent. Toothpaste can be an effective alternative for cleaning white shoes. Simply dip a brush into toothpaste and scrub the shoes. After cleaning, wrap the shoes in white paper, preferably toilet paper, and allow them to dry in a ventilated area.
3. Using washing-up liquid.
If it's the first time washing the shoes and encountering yellowing, it is recommended to change the detergent. Avoid using washing powder and opt for dishwashing liquid instead. Rinse the shoes thoroughly, wrap them in toilet paper, and let them dry in a well-ventilated place.
4. Salt-soaking method.
Start by washing the yellowed white shoes with detergent, then soak them in water sprinkled with salt. After approximately half an hour, wash the shoes again, wrap them in toilet paper, and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated location.
To maintain white shoes on a daily basis, certain practices should be followed:
1. When storing white sneakers that won't be worn for a while, it's essential to clean them thoroughly to prevent the formation of mold from lingering stains.
2. Choose a dry and non-humid location for storage, preferably in the original shoe box.
3. To maintain the shape of the sneakers, stuff them with shoe lasts or old newspapers. This practice will help keep them in pristine condition when you take them out again.
4. Placing a small amount of desiccant in the shoe box serves two purposes: repelling insects and maintaining dryness.
