Worldwide Google searches for “how to get white trainers clean” and “how to clean suede shoes” have increased by over 5,000% this month, highlighting a surge in consumer demand for practical, cost-effective cleaning advice. With wetter weather, muddy conditions and rising replacement costs, shoppers are increasingly looking for affordable, home solutions to keep their footwear looking new, rather than replacing damaged pairs for both environmental and financial reasons. In response to the growing search demand, the footwear specialists at Elevate Your Sole have revealed the cleaning hacks that actually work, alongside the most common mistakes that could be permanently ruining your shoes.

You don’t need expensive specialist kits to clean rundown footwear, just the right technique and a few simple household ingredients that are already in your kitchen cupboard. The key is understanding which methods work for different materials and applying them carefully to avoid unnecessary damage.

How to clean white trainers:

Remove laces before washing: Laces should be soaked separately in warm soapy water to prevent dirt transfer and ensure an even clean.

Baking soda and white vinegar paste: Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one tablespoon of white vinegar and a little warm water to create a paste. Apply with a soft brush (such as an old toothbrush), gently scrub, and remove with a damp cloth, then leave to air dry.

Toothpaste for rubber soles: Non-gel white toothpaste can help lift dirt from rubber midsoles. Apply a small amount, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. This will instantly lift off any black marks.

Nail polish remover: Apply acetone nail polish remover to a cotton pad and gently dab for stubborn scruff or marks, but be sure to avoid applying on fabric materials.

Potato starch: Rub the cut side of a raw potato over scuffs of trainers to help lift stains. The natural starch from the potato helps lift marks and restore shine without the need for harsh chemicals.

How to clean suede safely

The Footwear specialists at Elevate Your Sole commented:

“Suede requires a much gentler approach than other materials, and immediately cleaning with water is often the biggest mistake people make. Always start by dry brushing with a suede brush or soft toothbrush, moving in one direction to avoid damaging the nap. For stains, lightly dab a tiny amount of white vinegar on a cloth, but never soak the suede, then allow it to dry naturally before brushing again to restore its texture. You can even use steam from a kettle to lift flattened fibres before brushing. However, most importantly, never place suede shoes on radiators or direct heat, as this can cause shrinkage and hardening."

How to clean leather shoes

“Leather shoes should always be cleaned gently to avoid damage, and care should be taken not to soak the material. Start by using a damp cloth with diluted mild soap or a vinegar and water mix solution to wipe away dirt and stubborn marks. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to prevent cracking and maintain suppleness, especially during colder months. For an extra boost, a small drop of olive oil can restore shine, so make sure to apply sparingly and buff well with a soft cloth. Always finish with a dry cloth to buff the leather and apply a protective spray before heading out in the rain to prevent staining and long-term damage.”

How to deal with smelly shoes

“To tackle odours in shoes, simple household tricks can be highly effective. Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda inside the shoe and leave overnight, then shake out the next day to absorb lingering smells. Dry tea bags can also be placed inside shoes to soak up odours naturally. For a deeper clean, pop shoes in a sealed bag and freeze them overnight, as this kills odours causing bacteria and helps keep footwear fresh.”

The common mistakes that are destroying footwear

"Some of the most common mistakes we see when it comes to shoe care include washing trainers in the washing machine. This can weaken adhesives, distort their shape, and damage the cushioning. Also, using harsh chemicals or bleach on white materials often leads to yellowing or permanent discolouration, so it’s much better to use baking soda and white vinegar solutions instead.”

“Drying shoes directly on radiators can also cause leather to crack, warp, or shrink, so it’s recommended to let shoes dry naturally. Scrubbing suede with water flattens the nap and leaves visible marks. Furthermore, storing damp shoes without allowing them to fully dry creates an environment for mould, odours, and material breakdown. These seemingly small mistakes can have a major impact on the durability and appearance of footwear, ultimately significantly shortening the lifespan of shoes and turning what could be long-lasting pairs into a short term fix."