White shoes are the epitome of style, pairing well with any outfit. However, almost everyone is faced with the problem of yellowing stains that appear over time. Such stains usually age the appearance of shoes by making them seem more dirty. If you’ve been wondering how to remove yellow stains from your white shoes, this guide will put you on the easy path to cleaning your shoes.
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Why do yellow spots appear on white shoes?
Before learning how to remove yellow stains from white shoes, it is important to know how stains are formed. Here are some of the common causes of their appearance:
- Sweat and Moisture: Excessive sweat and moisture can cause white shoes to gradually turn yellow.
- Improper cleaning: Unwashed soap or extreme chemical treatments can also cause yellow stains on shoes.
- Oxidation: Prolonged exposure of white shoes to air and sunlight enables oxidation, which is responsible for yellow stains.
- Soap residue: If there is any soap residue, it can give rise to yellow stains after improper rinsing.
- Storage issues: Yellow stains can also be caused by storing white shoes in damp or dark places.
Knowing the reasons, let’s start with the actual step-by-step exercise on how to remove yellow stains from white shoes.
Best 6 Methods to Remove Yellow Stains from White Shoes
Here are some efficient methods to remove yellow stains from white shoes at home.
1. Using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
Baking soda works as a cleaning agent, while hydrogen peroxide helps dissolve dark stains. Thus, this method ranks high on the effectiveness scale for yellow stains on white shoes.
Tools:
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 0.5 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide
- 0.5 tablespoon water
- Toothbrush
Steps:
- In a bowl, mix the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and water to create a paste.
- With the toothbrush, apply the paste to the yellow stains.
- Gently scrub the stains for a couple of minutes.
- Keep the paste on the shoes for about 30 minutes.
- Wash with cold water and air dry.
2. Using White Vinegar and Baking Soda
White vinegar helps to dissolve stains while baking soda works wonders in lifting dirt off surfaces.
Tools:
- 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- A soft cloth
Steps:
- Mix the baking soda and vinegar into a thick paste.
- Apply to the stained areas.
- Let stand for 30 minutes.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and let dry the shoe.
3. Using Toothpaste
Toothpaste contains mild bleaching agents that help remove yellow stains from white shoes.
Tools:
- White non-gel toothpaste
- An old toothbrush
Steps:
- Put toothpaste directly onto the stained area.
- Using an old toothbrush, scrub the stain in circular motions.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Wipe down with a damp cloth and let the shoes dry.
4. Using dish soap and warm water
Dish soap is an effective cleaner for mild yellow stains.
Tools:
- A few drops of any dish soap
- Some warm water
- A sponge or cloth
Steps:
- Mixing dish soap with warm water.
- Dip a sponge into the solution and scrub the stains.
- Wipe with a clean cloth.
- Let the shoes dry naturally.
5. Lemon Juice and Sunlight
Since lemon juice contains natural bleaching agents, it can easily remove yellow stains.
Tools:
- Freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- A bowl
Steps:
- Squeeze the fresh lemon juice onto the yellow-stained area.
- Leave the shoes in bright sunlight for a few hours.
- Wash them with cold water and let them dry naturally.
6. The Process of Bleaching (Only Good for Strong Stains)
Bleach can de-stain stubborn yellow stains but should be used with extreme caution.
Tools:
- One part bleach
- Five parts water
- A toothbrush
Steps:
- Mix bleach with water.
- Using the toothbrush, apply the mixture to the stains.
- Scrub gently and allow it to remain for about 10 minutes.
- Rinse with water thoroughly and allow air drying.
7 Best Ways to Safely Remove Shoe Polish From Leather Shoes
How to prevent yellow stains on white shoes
I will remove yellow stains from white shoes and keep a few tips on hand to prevent yellow stains on the road.
1. Shoe storage conditions
Keep white shoes in a dry and low-humidity environment to prevent moisture accumulation.
2. Regular shoe cleaning
Cleaning shoes after each use will prevent dirt and stains from forming on the boots.
3. Avoid harsh soaps
Use mild soaps and avoid harsh chemicals that can turn white-yellow.
4. Shoe drying conditions
Let the shoes air out and be well-ventilated. Avoid too much direct sunlight.
5. Use them with a lot of protection
Apply a waterproof and stain-proof protective spray to keep dirt and stains away from white shoes.
Final thoughts on how to remove yellow stains from white shoes
Here’s how to remove yellow stains from white shoes with the help of some simple household items: baking soda, vinegar, toothpaste, or bleach can all be helpful, depending on how serious is the stain. Regular care and adequate storage solutions will help keep your white shoes clean.
