How to Keep White Sneakers White

Love white sneakers but worried about how to keep them white? Fear not. We’re big fans of white sneakers (obvi) and have rounded up our best tips and tricks for maintaining that clean, fresh new sneaker white look all year long.

There's nothing more stylish than an all-white outfit featuring our white Paisley Sneaker

Start with High Quality

Before we dive into care and maintenance tips, we want to emphasize the importance of choosing a high quality, premium pair of white sneakers that are designed to last year after year. Our Paisley sneakers are individually handcrafted in Portugal with the utmost attention to detail and premium materials, offering both style and durability. 

Opting for sneakers made from high-quality, responsibly sourced materials ensures they will withstand the test of time. The upper (white) part of our Paisleys are made from premium calf leather from Spain that is Gold Certified under the Leather Working Group. Our interior lining is also made from Gold Certified, Leather Working Group leather, but in a buttery soft goatskin to ensure the best fit and comfort possible. For more on why we chose responsibly sourced materials and why it matters, visit our sustainability page. 

Inspecting our Paisley Sneaker in White/White 

Take Preventative Steps

Another important factor in keeping white sneakers looking their best is prevention of stains and discoloration. Consider shielding them with a protective, waterproof spray especially if you live in an area that rains often. This barrier will repel liquids and safeguard against stains, ensuring your sneakers live their best lives. Here are a few of our favorites sprays by Reshoevn8r and Solemate. 

Note: while waterproofing your shoes can go a long way, it’s also a good idea to keep an umbrella handy and watch out for those puddles! 

Next, wear socks. This may seem like an obvious one, but it will really help protect the inside of your shoes (and feet!) from sweat, odor, and bacteria. Even though our insoles are antibacterial, we still opt to wear no-show socks with ours. Here are a few of our favorites that won’t slip off your heel! Edor, Wernies and Bombas. 

Holding our antibacterial, memory foam insole at the factory in Portugal 

Exercise Regular Cleaning Rituals  

To maintain the brilliance of your white sneakers, establishing a regular cleaning routine is essential. Follow these steps to keep them looking flawless:

1. Unlace: Begin by removing the shoelaces, either to clean them separately or replace them if needed. This allows easy access to every nook and cranny of your sneakers.

2. Gentle Brushing: Employ a soft-bristle brush or a delicate toothbrush to gently remove loose dirt and debris from the shoe's surface. Avoid excessive scrubbing to prevent damage to the delicate materials.

3. Mild Soap Solution: Create your own cleaning solution by filling a bowl with warm water and adding a small amount of mild soap or sneaker cleaner. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and gently wipe the sneakers, paying special attention to stained or soiled areas. Avoid saturating the material excessively, as certain materials like suede may be susceptible to water damage. For easy, on the go cleaning, try these wipes. 

4. Tackling Stubborn Stains: For stubborn blemishes, concoct a mixture of baking soda and water or rely on a specialized stain remover, like the Magic Eraser. Apply the solution directly to the affected area, employing a gentle brush to scrub away the stain. Rinse thoroughly with clean water once the stain has vanished.

5. Air Dry: After cleaning, allow your sneakers to air dry naturally. Choose a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources. Such precautions prevent yellowing and ensure your sneakers maintain their perfect shape.

Add in some additional TLC:

We’re all about buying better shoes and making them last. To maximize the lifespan of your white sneakers and preserve their pristine beauty, incorporate these extra maintenance steps:

1. Touch-Up: Restore your sneakers' original luster by using a white shoe polish or marker to touch up scuffs or minor discolorations. This simple step breathes new life into your footwear, minimizing visible wear and tear.

2. Storage: Create a haven for your white sneakers by storing them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Consider using a shoebox or a dust bag (like the ones our shoes come in) to shield them from dust and potential damage, ensuring they remain ready for your next fashion adventure. We spent a lot of time looking for the most stylish, durable and sustainable box and garment bag. Made from thick, recycled cardboard, our peachy pink boxes are meant to be reused and store your shoes or favorite things. 

We think our peachy pink box is so beautiful, we display it on a bookshelf! 

3. Rotate: If you frequently wear white sneakers, its a good idea to rotate them. Alternating between different pairs allows each set to rest, breathe, and rejuvenate, minimizing excessive wear and tear, and try different looks! We’ll admit we’re a sucker for a timeless, all-white sneaker, like our Paisley, but we love mixing it up with color and texture, like our Rose and Dove suede or Gold metallic ones! Amazing what just a pop or color can do to your mood and look! For more style tips, visit our other post here. 

White, Rose, Dove or Gold? Try one or all 4! :)

We hope this article was helpful! By selecting high-quality white sneakers and following these tips, you'll be looking fresh all year long.

See what all the 5-star reviews are about. Try our white sneakers out today. Take 10% off your first order by signing up to be a Joyasol Insider here. 

Shop our best-selling white Paisley sneaker now!