Everything You Need To Know: How To Clean White Sandals

We love a white sandal moment! They’re pretty and versatile, making them a popular choice for all seasons. However, they can be quite challenging to maintain because of their light color. 

Raise your hands if you’ve avoided buying white sandals altogether because of the sheer fear of maintaining them. We hear you! It’s true — stains and dirt easily creep up on white sandals, making them look dull and dirty within the first few wears. And of course, it beats us — how it magically rains exactly the day you decide to bring out those white sandals. 

But we’ve got you! With the right techniques and products, it’s possible to keep your white sandals looking as good as new. In this article, we’ll tell you how to clean white sandals in utmost detail. We’ll also share tips and tricks to prevent them from getting dirty in the first place. Let’s dive in. 

Types of White Sandal Stains and How to Clean Them

White sandals are prone to various types of stains, including grass, mud, and scuff marks. Each type of stain requires a different cleaning approach. 

Grass stains 

To tackle grass stains, start by brushing off any loose dirt or debris. Then, mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and scrub the stained area in a circular motion. Rinse the area with clean water and pat dry with a towel. 

Muddy stains 

To treat mud stains, let the mud dry out completely before attempting to clean it. Once done, use a soft brush or even a toothbrush to remove the dried-up mud from the sandals. Some stains tend to be pesky. If they persist, mix a small amount of white vinegar with water and apply it on the sandal’s surface. Let it sit for a few moments before rinsing with water and drying. 

Oil stains 

Oil stains are the tricky ones but it’s possible to get rid of them. Begin by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to try and absorb as much oil as possible. Next, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder onto the stain and let that simmer for a few hours. The powder will absorb the oil. Afterwards, brush off the powder and use a mild dish soap to clean the stained area. Rinse and dry. And voila. 

Scuff marks 

Scuff marks are common on white sandals, especially if you wear them outdoors. To remove scuff marks, use a white eraser or a mixture of baking soda and water. Rub the scuffed area in a circular motion until the marks disappear. Wipe off any residue with a clean cloth and let the sandals air dry.

How To Clean White Sandals Based On Their Material

White sandals come in many materials, with specific cleaning methods. We've rounded them up for you in this detailed blog. We hope you’re taking notes. 

Here's how to clean different materials of white sandals:

Faux Leather

Clean your faux leather white sandals using a mild soap and water. Mix a small amount of soap with warm water and dip a soft cloth into it. Wipe the sandals, paying attention to any stained areas. Rub down the soap with clean water and pat dry with a thick towel. Avoid harsh chemicals or soaps, as this may cause damage to the faux leather.

Leather

Be sure to clean your white leather sandals to avoid any discoloration. First, remove any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush. Next, mix a few drops of mild detergent with water and dampen a clean cloth with the solution. Wipe down the sandals, focusing on the stained areas. After that, dip the cloth in clean water and wipe off any remaining soap. 

Pro tip: Invest in a leather conditioner to ensure it lasts long and remains soft. Keep reading for product recommendations. 

Rubber and Plastic

The good news is that rubber and plastic white sandals are easy to clean. Begin by rinsing off any dirt or debris under running water. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with water and use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the sandals. Pay extra attention to any stains. Thoroughly rinse it with water and dry it with a thick towel. Our secret sauce to restoring the shine of the sandals? A thin layer of baby oil or petroleum jelly. Apply this to your sandals and you’re good to go!

Cork

Cork white sandals need a delicate cleaning method to avoid damaging the material. Start by removing any dirt or debris with a soft brush. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto a clean cloth and gently wipe down the sandals, focusing on stained areas. Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe off any vinegar residue. Allow the sandals to air dry, and finish by applying a thin layer of cork sealer to protect the material.

The Internet’s Best Products To Tackle White Shoe Stains

While homemade solutions can be effective, you can also invest in products for cleaning white sandals. These come in handy if you have a huge collection of white sandals and sneakers. Without further ado, here’s our go-to list of products:

• Shoe Cleaner: These cleaners remove stains and dirt without damaging the material. But, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results. Our favorite rec? Try the Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner.

• White Polish: Have your white sandals lost their shine? A white polish can help restore their original sheen. Choose one that suits the material of your sandals. Don't forget to follow the usage instructions on the packaging. giving the Brillo Quality Whitener a spin. This one’s perfect to keep your white sneakers immaculately clean too.

• Suede Brush: If you have white suede sandals, a suede brush can help remove stains and revive the nap of the suede. Pro tip: brush in one direction to avoid damaging the material. The Classic Suede Brush & Nubuck Cleaner comes highly recommended on Amazon.

Remember, always test any product on a small area of your sandals first. This will help you see how the product reacts to the material.

How to Prevent Sandals from Getting Dirty

We’re here to give you the full low-down on how to clean your white sandals. And so, we can’t leave out ways to prevent your white sandals from getting dirty too. Here are some valuable tips:

• Scotchguard:

  Apply this protective spray to your white sandals before wearing them. This will create a barrier that repels stains and dirt. Thank us later for this nifty little hack.

• Avoid Wet Surfaces:

  If you’re in for rainy weather, avoid wearing those white sandals, tempting as they may be.

• Regular Cleaning:

  Establish a regular cleaning routine for your white sandals. By cleaning them often, you can prevent stains from setting in and keep them looking fresh as a daisy.

• Remove Stains Immediately:

  Spotted a stain on your white sandals? Tackle them immediately. The longer that stain sits, the more difficult it becomes to get rid of it.

   

Other Genius, Rare Tips For Maintaining White Sandals

We couldn’t resist! Here are some extra tips to maintain your white sandals:

• Proper Storage: Store your white sandals in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will prevent discoloration and damage to your white sandal. Looking for more footwear storage tips? We got you.

• Avoid Excessive Heat: Harsh sunlight can cause your white sandals to warp or fade, and we don’t want that. Make sure you don’t leave your white sandals in hot cars. Be mindful of not exposing them to direct sunlight for a long period of time.

• Regular Inspections: Take the time to inspect your white sandals for any signs of damage or wear. address any issues to prevent further damage.

   

How to Clean Kosh-a Footwear

Kosh-a's footwear is a stylish and ethical choice. These steps work like a charm to keep them looking new:

• Frequently wipe down any loose dirt from the chappals using a soft brush.

• Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water to create a soapy solution.

• Dip a cloth into the solution and wipe down the chappals; pay special attention to the stained areas.

• Rinse the cloth with water and wipe off any soap remnants.

• Allow the sandals to air-dry in a cool, dry place; ensure the shoes don’t have access to direct sunlight.

• Once the sandals are dry, apply a layer of vegan leather conditioner to keep the material soft and supple.

   

And there you have it. Follow these steps, to keep your favorite white Kosh-a footwear looking bright forever. 

Haven’t explored our range of charming, vegan footwear yet? You’re in for a treat!

Check out our website or stalk us on the ‘gram for loads of inspo.

In conclusion, if you’ve been meaning to learn how to clean white sandals, we’ve covered everything you need to know in this blog. Don’t forget to choose the appropriate cleaning method for the material of your sandals. Always test any products in a small area first. Now, you're all set to master the art of cleaning white sandals and enjoy their beauty all year long.