White baby shoes are adorable but can get dirty quickly. Keeping them clean is essential for maintaining their appearance and hygiene.

Babies are messy, and their shoes bear the brunt of their adventures. Mud and grass marks can accumulate, making it difficult to keep them looking pristine. Plus, cleaning them can be challenging due to delicate materials and the stubbornness of some stains.

But you can effectively remove dirt and odours from your baby's shoes. All you need is the right kind of technique for the cause of the stain.

» Explore our toddler shoe collection and find white sneakers for your baby

Why Should You Clean Your Baby's Shoes?

Children tend to be more susceptible to illnesses due to their developing immune systems and limited previous exposure to pathogens. As they explore their environment, their shoes can quickly become contaminated with dirt, germs, and other substances.

Cleaning their shoes regularly helps prevent germs, minimise the risk of illnesses, and fosters a healthier environment for your baby's developing immune system.

» Learn to wash different types of kid's shoe

7 Tips for Cleaning Baby’s White Shoes

1. Water and Gentle Soap

Got some dirty marks on your kid's shoes? Just mix a bit of water with some gentle soap or baby shampoo.

1. Apply a solution of mild dish soap and water to the impacted areas.
2. Scrub gently with a soft brush to remove stubborn dirt
3. Work the soapy solution into the streaks using a fresh, moist cloth.
4. Wipe off the residue.

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2. Baking Soda Solution

Try baking soda if your kid's shoes have a tough stain from ketchup, paint, or grass.

1. Make a paste using equal amounts of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
2. Apply the paste to the affected area.
3. Clean gently using a soft brush.
4. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes.
5. Use a moist towel to wipe off the residue.

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3. Lemon Juice and Sunlight

Lemon juice is perfect if your baby's white shoes have yellow or brown stains. Just wash it with water and apply it to the stains. Leave the shoes outside in the sunlight for a few hours. It'll make them look brighter.

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4. Baby and Wet Wipes

Want to clean your kid's shoes fast? Baby wipes are a practical option. But make sure they don't have alcohol or perfume in them. This is a quick and easy method for when you're in a rush.

5. Washing Machine on Delicate Cycle

If your baby's shoes are machine-washable (check the care label), you can clean them in the washing machine! Put the shoes in a mesh bag and wash them with a gentle detergent on a delicate cycle.

Don't use harsh chemicals like bleach. Let the shoe air dry completely. Just be careful when washing shoes in the machine, and make sure they're made of materials that can handle them.

6. White Vinegar

Another common home item that may be used to clean and freshen baby shoes is white vinegar. After combining equal amounts of it and water, wash the residue off with a towel.

Leather and canvas are only two examples of materials with which this technique works well. It refreshes the shoes without causing damage by aiding in the removal of smells and disinfecting.

1. To remove food or drink stains, make a paste by combining a tiny amount of white vinegar with baking soda.
2. Scrub the soiled areas gently after applying the paste.
3. With a moist towel, remove the paste.

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7. Freezing

To remove bubblegum, put the shoes in a plastic bag and freeze them for a few hours. After the gum has frozen, use an old credit card or a plastic spatula to scrape it off carefully.



How Often Should I Clean My Baby's White Shoes?

The frequency of cleaning your baby's white shoes depends on their material, how usually your baby wears them, and what they do in them.

You should wash them often if your baby plays outside or wears the shoes a lot. After each wear, wipe fabric or canvas shoes with a damp cloth to stop dirt and stains from sticking. You can even give them a deep clean with mild soap and water once or twice a week.

» Learn to care for leather shoes like a professional

Specialised cleaning products for tough stains

1. Sneaker Cleaning Kits

Sneaker cleaning kits are specially designed to maintain shoe appearance. They typically include a microfiber cloth, a soft-bristled brush, and a cleaning solution.

2. Magic Eraser

Magic Erasers, due to their melamine foam composition, are a popular choice for cleaning sneakers. After dampening the Magic Eraser, gently scrub the soiled areas. Its micro-abrasive nature effectively lifts tough stains without damaging the surface.

3. Stain Repellent Sprays

Consider using a stain-repellent spray to help prevent stains on your baby's white shoes. They create a protective layer on the surface, making it more resistant to dirt and stains. Be sure to apply an even coat and allow the shoes to air dry completely.

How to Make White Baby Shoes Last Longer

• Regular Maintenance: Keep your baby’s white shoes looking their best by checking them often for dirt and stains. You should also wipe away any marks right away with a gentle cleaner so they don’t get stuck.
• Shoe Rotation: Have multiple shoe pairs that you can switch. This will help the white ones last longer. It’s perfect for leather pairs because it lets them breathe and stay in shape.
• Less Outside Wear: Avoid having your baby wear shoes outside, especially if it's muddy. Reserve them for indoor activities.
• Storage: When you're not using your baby’s white shoes, keep them in a cool, dry place. They should be away from sunlight so they can stay white. You can also use shoe trees or stuff them with tissue paper to help them keep their shape.

4 Don'ts of Cleaning White Baby Shoes

1. Don't use harsh cleaners like bleach on your baby's white shoes. They can stain and damage the fabric. Instead, use gentle baby products or mild soap.
2. Don't forget to clean the shoes right away if they get dirty. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to keep them looking new.
3. Don't forget to check if the shoes are machine washable. They might get damaged, lose colour, or fall apart if they aren't meant to be cleaned this way.
4. Don't use too much water when cleaning leather shoes. This material can get damaged or stained if they're too wet. Instead, just dab them with a damp towel. And make sure they're dry before your baby wears them again.

Keep Your Baby's Shoes Sparkling White

Keeping your baby's white shoes clean and looking their best can be a bit of a chore, but it's definitely doable. By following these seven tips and tricks, you can ensure that your little one's footwear stays pristine and presentable.

Remember, a little regular maintenance goes a long way. So, grab your cleaning supplies and get started on those adorable kicks.

» Looking for white sneakers? Check out our selection of toddler shoes 👟