Tired of getting your shoes dirty every monsoon? You’re not alone. As the rain pours down, mud splatters and puddles wreak havoc on our beloved white shoes. But don’t lose hope. Fashion stylist Isha Bhansali shares smart DIY shoe cleaning hacks that can restore your white shoes to look brand new — using simple household supplies!
White shoes are fashion staples. Whether crafted from leather, canvas, or mesh, they add a crisp finish to any outfit. Yet, these classics often fall victim to stubborn monsoon stains.
“White shoes are versatile, but even one outing during the rainy season can ruin them,” says Bhansali. “Cleaning them doesn’t have to be a nightmare, though.”
Why Monsoon Mud is Hard to Remove
The monsoon brings not just rain but fine dust mixed with water, creating sticky mud. Once it seeps into fabric or leather, it’s tricky to clean.
Many people spend hours scrubbing only to end up with a yellowish or off-white tint. That’s where Bhansali’s DIY hacks shine.
Hack #1: The Magic of Baking Soda
For canvas or mesh shoes, Bhansali recommends a simple paste of baking soda and water.
- Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water.
- Use a soft toothbrush to scrub gently.
- Wipe off residue with a clean cloth.
- Let the shoes dry in a shaded area.
Baking soda not only cleans but deodorises your shoes.
Hack #2: Vinegar to the Rescue
White vinegar is another miracle worker for leather shoes.
- Mix equal parts of vinegar and water.
- Dip a soft cloth into the mixture.
- Wipe stains gently.
- Follow up with a dry cloth.
“Vinegar removes dirt without damaging leather,” says Bhansali.
Hack #3: Toothpaste Trick
Toothpaste isn’t just for teeth! For quick cleaning:
- Apply white, non-gel toothpaste to dirty areas.
- Scrub with a brush.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Bhansali adds, “Toothpaste is great for white rubber soles, too.”
Hack #4: Mild Detergent for Deep Cleaning
When dirt is stubborn, opt for mild laundry detergent.
- Mix a small amount of detergent with warm water.
- Scrub gently with a brush.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Dry the shoes away from direct sunlight.
Detergent lifts grime without harming delicate fabrics.
Prevention Tips for Monsoon Wear
While cleaning is important, prevention can save time and effort. Bhansali suggests:
- Spray shoes with a water-repellent spray before wearing them out.
- Avoid stepping into puddles.
- Keep a soft cloth handy for wiping off water.
“These small steps keep your white shoes looking fresh longer,” she says.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Prefer sustainable methods? Use lemon juice and salt paste for stubborn stains. Lemon’s acidity cuts through grime, while salt acts as a gentle scrub.
Another eco-friendly trick is using old newspapers inside wet shoes to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
Fashion Meets Function
White shoes remain an evergreen style essential. Bhansali urges people not to stash them away during monsoon. “They’re too beautiful to hide. With the right care, you can enjoy them year-round,” she says.
So next time rain clouds gather, step out with confidence. Your white shoes can stay as spotless as your style.