How To Clean Shoes With Baking Soda?

Written ByKevin K. Shaw Last Updated on: Shoes
How To Clean Shoes With Baking Soda?

Baking soda is a versatile cleaning product that can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, including shoes. It is a natural deodorizer and abrasive, making it ideal for removing dirt, grime, and stains.

To clean shoes with baking soda, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the laces and insoles. This will allow you to clean all areas of the shoe more thoroughly.
  2. Brush off any loose dirt or debris. You can use a soft brush or a toothbrush for this.
  3. Mix a paste of baking soda and water. The ratio should be about 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
  4. Apply the paste to the shoes using a soft brush or toothbrush. Pay special attention to any areas that are particularly dirty or stained.
  5. Let the paste sit on the shoes for 15-30 minutes. This will give the baking soda time to loosen the dirt and grime.
  6. Scrub the shoes with the brush or toothbrush. Be sure to rinse the brush or toothbrush frequently in clean water.
  7. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water. You can use a damp cloth to remove any remaining baking soda paste.
  8. Allow the shoes to air dry completely.

Are there any specific types of shoes or materials that are more suitable for this cleaning method?

Baking soda is a versatile cleaning product that can be used to clean a variety of shoes and materials, including:

  • Canvas shoes: Baking soda is particularly effective at cleaning canvas shoes, as it can help to remove dirt, grime, and stains.
  • Leather shoes: Baking soda can be used to clean leather shoes, but it is important to use a leather conditioner after cleaning to prevent the leather from drying out.
  • Suede shoes: Baking soda can be used to clean suede shoes, but it is important to brush the shoes gently to avoid damaging the suede.
  • Rubber shoes: Baking soda can be used to clean rubber shoes, but it is important to rinse the shoes thoroughly to remove any remaining baking soda paste.

It is important to note that baking soda can be abrasive, so it is important to use it gently on delicate materials, such as suede and leather. It is also important to test baking soda on a small inconspicuous area of the shoe before using it to clean the entire shoe.

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How long should you leave the baking soda on the shoes before brushing it off?

You should leave the baking soda on your shoes for at least 15-30 minutes before brushing it off. This will give the baking soda time to loosen the dirt, grime, and stains. For stubborn stains, you may need to leave the baking soda on the shoes for longer, up to overnight.

Here are some tips for leaving baking soda on your shoes:

  • If you are cleaning canvas shoes, you can simply sprinkle the baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit.
  • If you are cleaning leather or suede shoes, you can make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the shoes with a soft cloth.
  • If you are cleaning shoes with stubborn stains, you can apply a thicker paste of baking soda and water to the stains.
  • Once the baking soda has had time to sit, brush it off with a soft brush or toothbrush. Be sure to rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water after brushing off the baking soda.

It is important to note that baking soda can be abrasive, so it is important to use it gently on delicate materials, such as suede and leather. It is also important to test baking soda on a small inconspicuous area of the shoe before using it to clean the entire shoe.

What should be done if the shoes have stubborn stains or odors that don’t come off easily with baking soda?

If stubborn stains or odors don’t come off easily with baking soda, you can try the following:

  • For stubborn stains:
    • Make a thicker paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain.
    • Let the paste sit on the stain for longer, up to overnight.
    • Gently scrub the stain with a soft brush or toothbrush.
    • Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water.
    • Repeat the process as needed.
    • If the stain is still visible, you may need to use a commercial stain remover.
  • For stubborn odors:
    • Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight.
    • Vacuum out the baking soda in the morning.
    • Place a box of baking soda in your shoe closet to absorb odors.
    • Spray the inside of the shoes with a white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water).
    • Let the vinegar solution sit on the shoes for 30 minutes before wiping them clean with a damp cloth.
    • Stuff the shoes with newspapers or dryer balls to absorb moisture.
    • Let the shoes air dry completely.

If you have tried all of the above methods and the stains or odors are still present, you may need to take your shoes to a professional shoe cleaner.

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Kevin K. Shaw is a fashion blogger who loves all things related to style, beauty and culture. He has been blogging for years now and he takes pride in his work.