Why Clean Shoes Matter and How Baking Soda Can Help
How to clean shoes with baking soda is a simple and effective method that can restore your shoes’ original shine and eliminate unpleasant odors. Here’s a quick overview if you’re in a rush:
- Create a cleaning paste using 2 parts baking soda and 1 part hydrogen peroxide.
- Apply the paste with an old toothbrush, scrubbing in small, circular motions.
- Allow the paste to dry in the sun for a few hours, then clap the shoes together to remove the paste.
- Rinse off any remaining residue with a damp cloth or scrub brush.
- Deodorize by sprinkling baking soda inside the shoes and leaving it overnight.
Baking soda is a household staple known for its cleaning and deodorizing properties. It can tackle various stains and smells, making it ideal for maintaining your kicks.
I’m Eric Neuner, the founder of NuShoe Inc, with experience in shoe repair and refurbishment since 1994. Over the decades, I’ve finded that using baking soda to clean shoes is a cost-effective and accessible solution for many shoe-related concerns. Let me guide you through the process.
Why Baking Soda is Effective for Cleaning Shoes
Baking soda is a household staple known for its cleaning power and odor absorption. But what makes it so effective for cleaning shoes? Let’s break it down.
Baking Soda Properties
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a mild alkali. This means it can dissolve dirt and grease in water. Its fine, gritty texture also makes it a gentle abrasive, ideal for scrubbing away stains without damaging the shoe material.
Cleaning Power
Baking soda’s cleaning power comes from its ability to react with acids and bases. When mixed with water and hydrogen peroxide, it forms a paste that lifts dirt and stains from the fabric. This combination is especially effective on white shoes, making them look new again.
For example, when you mix baking soda with a bit of hydrogen peroxide, you create a non-chlorine bleach. This mixture not only cleans but also whitens the shoes. The hydrogen peroxide acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria that might be lurking in your shoes.
Odor Absorption
One of the standout features of baking soda is its ability to absorb odors. It works by neutralizing acidic and basic odor molecules. This is why you often see it recommended for deodorizing fridges and freezers, and it works just as well for shoes.
Case Study: ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda Shaker
ARM & HAMMER™ has a baking soda shaker designed specifically for deodorizing shoes. You simply sprinkle it in your shoes and let it sit overnight. This can be done weekly for regular maintenance or monthly for leather shoes to avoid absorbing the oils.
By using baking soda, you can effectively manage both the cleanliness and smell of your shoes. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution that you can easily incorporate into your routine.
In the next section, we’ll dive into how to clean shoes with baking soda using a step-by-step guide and alternative methods.
How to Clean Shoes with Baking Soda
Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning your shoes with baking soda is easy and effective. Let’s walk through the process:
- Gather Your Supplies:
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide
- 1 ½ teaspoons of water
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A small scrubbing brush (like a toothbrush)
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Prepare the Cleaning Paste:
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Mix the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and water in a bowl until it forms a thick paste.
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Remove Loose Dirt:
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Take your dirty shoes and brush off any loose dirt and debris. This makes the cleaning process more effective.
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Apply the Paste:
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Remove the laces from your shoes. Dip your brush into the paste and scrub it into the shoes in a circular motion. Focus on areas with stains or heavy dirt.
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Let It Sit:
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Allow the paste to sit on the shoes for at least a couple of hours. If possible, place the shoes in direct sunlight. The sunlight helps the hydrogen peroxide brighten the fabric.
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Clean the Laces:
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If your laces are dirty, put them in any leftover paste and let them sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
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Remove the Paste:
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Clap the shoes together to crack the dried paste off. For any remaining paste, use a damp rag or lightly rub with your brush.
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Dry the Shoes:
- Let both the shoes and laces dry completely. Once dry, re-lace your shoes and they’re ready to go!
Note: For stubborn stains like blood or coffee, you may need to repeat this process.
Alternative Methods
If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide on hand, or prefer other methods, here are some alternatives:
White Vinegar and Baking Soda:
– Mix 1 tablespoon of hot water, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of baking soda to form a paste.
– Apply it to the shoes with a toothbrush in a circular motion.
– Let it sit for a few hours before brushing off the dried paste.
Warm Soapy Water:
– Add 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid to 1 cup of warm water.
– Use a cloth or toothbrush to gently scrub the shoes until clean.
– Wipe off any excess water and let the shoes air dry for several hours.
Toothpaste:
– Use white, non-gel toothpaste.
– Apply it in a circular motion, paying extra attention to heavy stains.
– Leave it for 10 minutes before wiping away with a damp towel. Repeat if necessary.
Heavily Diluted Bleach:
– Mix 1 part bleach with 5 parts water.
– Use a toothbrush to work the solution into the shoes in circular motions.
– Wipe off the solution with a damp cloth and let the shoes dry for at least 5 hours.
By using these methods, you can keep your shoes looking fresh and clean. Next, we’ll talk about how to deodorize shoes with baking soda to keep them smelling great!
How to Deodorize Shoes with Baking Soda
Overnight Deodorizing
Baking soda is a powerful tool for fighting shoe odors. Its natural properties absorb and neutralize unpleasant smells, making it a go-to solution for freshening up your footwear.
Here’s how to deodorize your shoes overnight:
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Measure the Baking Soda: Use 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda per shoe. Ensure you have enough to cover the entire insole.
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Sprinkle Baking Soda Inside the Shoes: Pour the baking soda into the heel of each shoe. Tilt and shake the shoe to evenly distribute the powder.
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Let It Sit Overnight: Leave the baking soda in the shoes for a few hours, ideally overnight. For extra-stinky shoes, leave it for 24 hours. The longer it sits, the better the results.
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Remove the Baking Soda: Over a trashcan or sink, tap the shoes to remove the remaining baking soda. Shake out as much as possible. A small amount left inside won’t harm you or your shoes.
Regular Maintenance
For ongoing odor control, regular maintenance is key. Here’s how to keep your shoes smelling fresh:
Weekly Deodorizing: If your shoes tend to get smelly often, deodorize them once a week. This is especially useful for athletic or frequently worn shoes.
Use the ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda Shaker: Keep a baking soda shaker in your closet. Sprinkle a little inside your shoes whenever you notice any funkiness. It’s convenient and effective.
Odor Prevention Tips:
– Wear Cotton Socks: Cotton socks absorb sweat better than synthetic ones, reducing odor buildup.
– Rotate Your Shoes: Give your shoes a day off to air out and dry completely between wears.
– Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Prevent mold and mildew by storing shoes in a well-ventilated area.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean all year round. Next, we’ll discuss tips for cleaning different shoe materials to ensure every pair in your closet stays in top condition!
Tips for Different Shoe Materials
Canvas Shoes
Canvas shoes are popular for their comfort and style, but they can get dirty fast. Here’s how to clean them effectively:
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, ½ tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide, and ½ tablespoon of warm water to create a paste. If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide, use 1 tablespoon of water instead.
- Apply and Scrub: Use an old toothbrush to apply the paste to the shoes, scrubbing in circular motions.
- Sunlight Drying: Let the paste dry on the shoes for at least 30 minutes in direct sunlight. The sun helps to improve the whitening effect.
- Rinse and Repeat: Clap off the dried paste and rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water. Repeat if needed.
Leather Shoes
Leather shoes require a gentler approach to avoid damage:
- Soapy Water: Mix a small amount of liquid laundry detergent with warm water.
- Damp Cloth: Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and gently clean the leather surface.
- Eraser Sponge: For scuffs and stubborn stains, use a melamine foam eraser (like a Magic Eraser) to lightly rub the affected areas.
- Dry and Condition: Wipe the shoes with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and prevent cracking.
Mesh Shoes
Mesh shoes are delicate and require careful handling:
- Laundry Detergent: Create a soapy solution by adding a small amount of liquid laundry detergent to a bowl of warm water.
- Soft Cloth: Use a soft cloth dipped in the solution to clean the mesh fabric in circular motions.
- Bleach Pen: For tough stains like grass or dirt, gently use a bleach pen on the affected areas.
- Rinse and Dry: Wipe down the shoes with a clean, damp cloth. Fill them with white paper towels to help maintain their shape and let them air dry completely before wearing.
By following these specific tips for canvas, leather, and mesh shoes, you can keep every pair in your closet looking fresh and new. Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about cleaning shoes with baking soda.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cleaning Shoes with Baking Soda
Can I use baking soda to clean shoes?
Yes, you can! Baking soda is a versatile and effective cleaner for many types of shoes. By making a simple paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, you can tackle dirt and stains on fabric shoes. The paste works by breaking down grime and lifting it away from the fibers.
How to make the paste:
– Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda
– Add 1 ½ teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide
– Add 1 ½ teaspoons of water
Use a small brush (like an old toothbrush) to scrub the paste into the fabric of your shoes. This method works especially well on white canvas shoes.
How to make your shoes white again?
To restore the brightness of your white shoes, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are your best friends. The combination not only cleans but also whitens the fabric.
Steps to follow:
1. Prepare the paste: Mix baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and water.
2. Apply the paste: Remove the laces and use a brush to scrub the paste into the shoes.
3. Sunlight drying: Leave the shoes out in the sun for a couple of hours. The sunlight helps to activate the hydrogen peroxide, making your shoes even whiter.
This method is particularly effective for removing stubborn stains and restoring the original color of your shoes.
How to clean white Converse with baking soda?
Cleaning your beloved white Converse can be easy with a baking soda paste. This method is great for overnight scrubbing.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove loose dirt: Brush off any loose dirt and debris from your shoes.
2. Make the paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste.
3. Scrub: Apply the paste to the shoes using a toothbrush, scrubbing in circular motions.
4. Overnight scrubbing: Leave the paste on the shoes overnight to let it fully penetrate and lift the stains.
5. Rinse and dry: In the morning, rinse the shoes with cool water and let them air dry.
By using these methods, you can keep your white Converse looking fresh and clean without much hassle.
Conclusion
At NuShoe Inspect & Correct, we understand the importance of maintaining clean and fresh shoes. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains or unpleasant odors, our quality control and shoe repair services in San Diego, California, have got you covered.
Using baking soda to clean and deodorize your shoes is a simple yet effective method. From making your shoes look brand new to keeping them odor-free, baking soda is a versatile tool that works wonders.
If you need professional help or have any questions about shoe maintenance, visit our shoe odor removal service page for more information. Our experts are always here to ensure your footwear stays in top-notch condition.
Keep your shoes looking and smelling great with these easy tips, a little baking soda can go a long way!