1. Respond immediately to stains
The biggest mistake is putting off cleaning "until later". Dirt penetrates the material and is much harder to remove later.
What should you do?
- clean your shoes as you go
- use a damp cloth or a soft brush
- don't let stains dry
A quick response is key to keeping them white.
2. Clean your shoes regularly
Even if you don't see any major stains, it's worth refreshing your shoes every now and then.
It's best to:
- use dedicated cleaning products
- clean them by hand (not in the washing machine)
- use gentle motions so as not to damage the material
Regularity prevents permanent discoloration.
3. Don't wash your shoes in the washing machine
This is a very common mistake.
A washing machine can:
- weaken the glue
- deform the shoe
- cause the material to yellow (especially at high temperatures)
It is definitely better to clean your shoes by hand.
4. Use a protector
A protector creates a protective layer that:
- limits dirt absorption
- protects against moisture
- makes later cleaning easier
It's best to use it right after purchase and reapply regularly.
5. Dry them properly
After cleaning or contact with water, proper drying is important.
Avoid:
- radiators
- dryers
- direct sunlight
Instead:
- dry your shoes at room temperature
- stuff the inside with paper (e.g. paper towels) so they keep their shape
Too high a temperature can cause yellowing.
6. Store them properly
Improper storage also affects the color of your shoes.
It's best to:
- keep them in a dry place
- avoid moisture
- store them in a box or protective bag
This way, the material won't oxidize and change color.
Summary
White shoes can look great for a long time if you take proper care of them. The key is:
✔ responding quickly to stains
✔ regular cleaning
✔ avoiding the washing machine
✔ using a protector
✔ proper drying and storage
About the author
Author: Team Sneakers Depot
We are a team from Poznań who built Sneakers Depot out of a passion for sneakers, clothes and streetwear culture. We have been active in the sneaker world for 12 years. We import limited and hard-to-find models on a daily basis, select pairs for the Reused section and advise customers in our store at 13 Długa Street. On the blog, we share the knowledge we gain with every pair that passes through our hands.
- Kacper (@wojciech.kacper) – imports new and used pairs and fulfills special orders.
- Bartek (@bartek.48) – the face of our TikTok, he runs the Sneakers Depot Reused section, customer service and social media.
- Michał (@nazywaszsie) – takes care of shoe restoration and customer service in the store.
We focus on authenticity, quality and an individual approach to every customer – every product in our store undergoes an authenticity check. Do you have a question about the article? Write to us or get to know us better.