White Sneakers Do Exist: Here's How We Keep Our Shoes Looking Brand New
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I like to joke with my boyfriend that when we both wear white shoes we’re the “Clean Shoe Crew.” There’s something striking and refreshing about white sneaks because they are so bright and clean. Some people also like them because they make their legs look tanner in contrast.
Others just like white shoes because they look so fresh (at least if you keep them that way!). And let’s be honest: white shoes are just a vibe. These shoes have a certain allure that stems from their pristine appearance. There's a satisfying feeling in wearing spotless white shoes that radiate cleanliness and attention to detail.
Not only do they enhance any outfit with a touch of sophistication, but they’re also timeless and effortless without being in your face. So, if you don’t already have a pair of comfy white sneakers in your closet, it’s time to join the crew.
Are white sneakers hard to clean?
One of the top questions when it comes to bright, white shoes is this: How do you keep them clean? If you’ve ever worn all-white sneaks before you’ll know what it’s like to step around puddles or mud and rub scuffs away with your thumb as soon as they happen. If you don’t mind your shoes looking worn—maybe you even prefer it—then skip ahead to our top shoes.
For those who want to maintain the clean and pristine quality of a new pair of shoes, we’ve got you covered. White sneakers aren’t hard to keep clean, but it’s mostly about continual cleaning and spot-treating any stains or scuffs as they happen. Here’s just how to clean those shoes and keep them looking just like new!
What is the easiest way to clean white shoes?
What You Need:
Remove dirt, dust, and debris
Begin by using a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any loose dirt. This step helps prevent the dirt from further sinking into your shoes during the cleaning process. Think: like when you soak up a stain on a rug, rather than rub it in.
Create a cleaning solution
Mix a small amount of mild dish detergent with warm water. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as they can damage the material of the shoes, especially leather or suede.
An alternate cleaning solution is a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Combine equal parts of each substance and then add in more baking soda until you’re left with a paste. Some people also like to add in a squeeze of lemon juice because it's said to help reduce stains (and smells).
Spot test
Before applying the cleaning solution to your whole shoe, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that it doesn't cause any discoloration or damage. Try your cleaning paste on the heel, inside, or even the tongue of the shoe under the laces.
Go For It: Clean Those Shoes
Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the surface of the shoes. Pay attention to any stained or discolored areas, and work the solution into the fabric or material. For tougher areas and materials, like the rubber soles of the shoe, you can get away with cleaning with an old toothbrush or scrubber.
Remove excess solution
Once you've cleaned the shoes, use a damp cloth or sponge to remove any excess detergent residue. Ensure that you thoroughly wipe the shoes to prevent any soap residue from drying and leaving a film or marks.
Dry thoroughly
Allow the shoes to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Stuff them with paper towels or shoe trees to help retain their shape as they dry. Some sites recommend keeping your shoes out of the sun and away from heat while drying, but the sun can also help bleach some fabrics, like canvas shoes.
Alternative products to clean your white shoes
For stubborn stains or yellowing, you can use specialized shoe cleaners, whitening products, or home remedies like a paste of baking soda and water. If you opt for any of these cleaning treatments, follow the instructions and remember to spot-test first.
Image: Branch Basics
Oxygen Boost
Branch Basics
Image: Amazon
The Original Shoe Cleaner
Pink Miracle
Image: Amazon
Sneaker White
Collonil
Image: Amazon
Instant Sole and Sneaker Cleaner
SneakERASERS™
Image: Amazon
Sneaker Cleaner
Grandma's Secret
Image: Amazon
Shoe Cleaner Essentials
Jason Markk
Image: Vans
Under $175
Image: Nordstrom
The Roger Advantage Tennis Sneaker
On
Price: $$$
This sleek white sneaker is a collaboration with the popular brand On Running and global tennis star, Roger Federer. The shoe has a modern streetwear style and features a leather upper, mesh for breathability, and extra padding for cushion. The insole can be removed if you prefer a lighter feel.
Image: Nordstrom
Esplar Sneaker
Veja
Price: $$$
Veja is a popular European brand with sustainable practices and a range of shoes that are popular around the world. The Esplar Sneaker is all white, including the “V” logo on the sides. The shoes have a leather upper with a rubber sole and have a fabric lining. You can wear the Veja sneakers for a day of errands, a tennis match, or a neighborhood walk.
Image: Nordstrom
Air Force 1
Nike
Price: $$$
Nike’s Air Force 1s are one of the most popular sneakers right now; I see them everywhere. You can buy new, which guarantees a fresh all-white outer, or you can look for older, used pairs that are slightly distressed and worn. The classic casual shoe has an ‘80s feel with leather, stitching, iconic holes at the toe of the shoe for breathability, and a slight platform for some oomph.
Image: Nordstrom
Air Force 1 Sculpt
Nike
Price: $$$
The Nike Air Force 1 Sculpt is a version of Air Force 1s with a narrow collar and suede accents. These shoes are perfect for an athletic look that is clean-cut and all-white. They look great with any outfit for any occasion, and also serve as comfortable everyday shoes.
Image: Adidas
NMD_R1 Primeblue Shoes
Adidas
Price: $$$
The NMD R1 sneakers from adidas are an athletic pair of sneakers made with recycled materials. You can slip the sneakers on easily, and the knit upper keeps your foot in place with slight stretch and a hugging design. The reinforced boost insoles will keep your feet comfortable, whether you’re out for a run or simply walking from place to place.
Image: Athleta
Saysh One Sneaker
Athleta
Price: $$$
The Saysh One is another pair of comfy white sneakers. The sneaker is designed by Olympic Medalist Allyson Felix and is carried by Athleta stores. Made for low impact workouts and featuring a soft microsuede and jacquard forefoot design, these shoes are specifically created to fit the female foot, and they have built-in foam pods for added comfort.
Image: Zappos
Bondi 8
Hoka One ONe
Price: $$$
Hokas are popular running shoes, and they are ultra-cushioned and comfortable for everything from travel to getting groceries. Many of my family members swear by Hoka as their go-to training shoe, and they often wear them recreationally as well. If you’re looking for comfy white sneakers, you can’t go wrong with this clean and pristine Bondi 8.
Under $100
Image: Madewell
Sidewalk Low-Top Sneakers
Madewell
Price: $$
The all-white low-top sneakers are made with leather and cotton, making them comfortable and durable. They have a slightly chunkier look as well as some height, but they’re still practical for wearing around town while running errands or out to brunch.
Image: Everlane
Forever Sneaker
Everlane
Price: $$
Everlane’s Forever Sneaker is another sustainable white sneaker option. The shoes are fully recyclable, which is extremely impressive. In terms of style, the shoe is a timeless, yet modern casual shoe with a thick rubber sole and recycled cotton canvas upper. You can wear these classics everywhere from the office to the fairgrounds.
Image: DSW
574 Sneaker
New Balance
Price: $$
Gen-Z regularly wears New Balance classics like the 574 sneaker, and older generations may have a pair in the back of their closet that they can bring back into the light. The iconic foam-sole sneaker’s “unassuming, unpretentious versatility” makes it a well-loved classic for anyone and any activity. Wear them at home, wear them to a show, wear them for adventure; but keep ‘em clean!
Image: Amazon
Disruptor II
Fila
Price: $$
Probably the chunkiest shoe on this list, the Fila Disruptor II is a favorite white platform sneaker. The 2-inch platforms are comfortable and durable, making this a great shoe for long days where you still want to look stylish. The top of the shoe is made with leather, and though the shoes are tall, they’re a low-cut style so you can show off cute socks or your ankles this summer.
Image: Amazon
Club C Double Geo
Reebok
Price: $$
The Reebok Club C Double Geo are a striking balance of chic and retro styles. They have a slight platform and a flat sole, making them a go-to everyday street shoe. The gum rubber sole adds some contrast to the upper of the comfy white sneakers, and helps keep the bottoms clean!
Image: Vans
Slip-On Sneakers
Vans
Price: $$
The all white Vans Slip-ons are an instantly recognizable shoe, especially if you binged Squid Game on Netflix—the shoes were a staple of the cast’s uniforms. Vans is known for street shoes that are comfortable, versatile, and durable. The slip-ons are easy to wear, but still provide comfort and support, thanks to the padded collars, elastic accents, and a full shoe back.
Image: Cariuma
OCA High
Cariuma
Price: $$
Cariuma is a sustainable and ethical brand with well-loved and highly-rated sneakers that claim to have no break-in period. As a fan of high-tops, I’ve been eyeing the OCA High style for quite some time. The high-tops are cute and comfortable white sneakers that have lightweight cushion technology and a classic cap-toe look that puts an ethical spin on a classic shoe.
Image: DSW
Classic Harman Run Sneaker
Reebok
Price: $$
A pair of classic Reebok styles is the Harman Run Sneaker. The white platform sneakers have a rubber sole with traction, leather uppers, a lace-up design, and a stitched logo. This style is nostalgic yet contemporary, and the leather material is a bit easier to keep clean than some canvas styles.
Image: Amazon
Smash Platform Sneaker
Puma
Price: $$
Puma is known for narrow sneakers, like the thin Smash white platform sneaker. The classic style has a leather upper and rubber sole, like many shoes on this list. The leather stitching adds dimension and the insole adds comfort, so this shoe is a no brainer.
Image: Lulus
Triple Kick White Platform Sneakers
Keds
Price: $$
Keds aren’t just shoes for kids; they’re also an affordable and versatile sneaker for all ages. They’re a tried-and-true canvas shoe with a one-inch platform that also adds height. You can wear these with anything, from jeans or cargos to a casual dress.
Image: Madewell
Court Sneakers
Madewell
Price: $$
I’m a sucker for a distressed, low-top sneaker and the Madewell Court Sneakers check all the boxes. They’re cushioned and flat, which is comfortable for people with high arches (thanks to the insoles), as well as those with flatter feet. The comfortable white sneakers also have a chunky, flecked sole made from recycled rubber and rice husks that adds a bit of character.
Image: Adidas
Stan Smith
Adidas
Price: $$
What would a list of white sneakers be without Stan Smiths? These all-time classic sneakers are an essential shoe with an effortless vibe. The shoes are now made with the recycled materials adidas coined “Primegreen.” The shoe still remains sleek and recognizable with a vegan upper and rubber sole.
Image: Vans
Old Skool Stackform Shoe
Vans
Price: $$
Vans has a wide range of sneakers, and the Old Skool sneaker combines the signature flat style with a platform for a boost. This all white lace-up shoe is comfortable for everyday wear. The canvas material will help your feet stay cool, but take care to keep them clean and bright.
Image: New Balance
CT302 Sneaker
New Balance
Price: $$
The CT302 Sneaker from New Balance has the slightest bit of contrast with a moonbeam colored swipe on the leather uppers. The shoe features wavy and unpredictably curvy lines that add dimension. The shoe has a white logo and thick sole that creates a platform style that is still street and court-ready.
Image: Nordstrom
Lestiel Sneaker
Tommy Hilfiger
Price: $$
The Lestiel sneaker has the classic Tommy Hilfiger colorway and a low profile. They’re perfect for lounging around and cute enough to wear out for dinner and drinks, too.
Under $50
Image: Amazon
Chunky Platform Sneakers
Lucky Step
Price: $
Like the Fila Disruptor II shoe, this platform sneaker from Lucky Step is chunky and cushioned. The shoe has a fashionable split sole and several inches of foam platform. Reviewers say they fit true to size and make an awesome festival shoe you can wear all day and all night without discomfort setting in.
Image: Amazon
Chuck Taylor All Star Dainty Mule Slip-On Sneaker
Converse
Price: $
This pair of Converse white slip-on sneakers is cute and functional. You can slip on the sneaker-mule style with ease and wear them all summer long. They’re especially great for lake days or wearing on a boat, since you can kick them off in a moment. Plus, they still feature the classic Chuck Taylor lace-up front and striped rubber soles.
Image: Nordstrom
Dansbey Sneaker
Lucky Brand
Price: $
These low-top sneakers are perfect for everyday wear. They have a chic leather upper, rubber sole, and a stylish silhouette with the front and back meeting in a V-shape on either side of your foot.