10 Best Shoe Tips for Cleaner Shoes on a Budget

The ideal fashion sidekicks are shoes! However, it can be expensive to keep them looking amazing and new. It’s simple to become entangled in a cycle of expensive cleaning supplies and expert repairs due to scuff marks and tough stains. However, what if you could have fresher shoes without going over budget? We know insider information! In this post, we’ll reveal the top ten shoe care strategies that will keep your shoes looking like new at a price as affordable as your favourite pair!

10 Best Budget-Friendly Shoe Tips

• Use Baking Soda for Odor Control

To absorb odours, place baking soda inside your shoes for the entire night. It works, is natural, and is inexpensive.

• Toothpaste for White Sneakers

A dab of non-gel white toothpaste and a soft brush can remove stains on white sneakers. Just rinse thoroughly afterward.

• Vinegar and Water Solution

Time to tackle those tough stains! Mix a miracle solution by combining equal parts of 2 things. One is white vinegar, and the other one is water. Dip a soft, clean cloth into the solution. Then, simply let it air dry. The acid vinegar will break down the stain. Thus your shoes will look like new again.

• Nail Polish Remover for Scuffs

Now follow one of my favourite methods. Use a cotton ball with a small amount of nail polish remover to clean scuff marks on leather or patent shoes.

• Old Socks as Buffers

Now use my secret method. Use old, clean socks to polish and buff your shoes. They work great for adding shine without buying extra cloth.

• Hair Dryer for Tight Shoes

Now use my secret method. Wear thick socks, put on tight shoes, and blow hot air with a hairdryer. This trick stretches the shoes for a better fit. You should also understand how to stretch shoes.

• Waterproof Your Shoes

Now use my secret method. Use beeswax or a candle to rub on canvas or fabric shoes, then heat lightly with a hairdryer. It’s a DIY waterproofing method.

• Avoid Overwashing

Now use my secret method. For sneakers, avoid frequent washing as it weakens the glue and materials. Spot-clean as needed.

• Stuff Shoes to Retain Shape

Now use my secret method. Use newspaper or tissue paper to stuff shoes when drying or storing them. This helps retain their shape.

• Use a Shoe Brush Regularly

Now use my secret method. A soft-bristle shoe brush is essential for cleaning dirt and dust. It’s a small investment for long-term benefits.

Additional Tips for Shoe Cleaning and Maintenance

Creative Ways to Use Everyday Items for Shoe Cleaning

Specialised shoe care products aren’t usually necessary. Baking soda, vinegar, and even toothpaste are common household ingredients that may be quite effective. For example:

• Baking Soda: A mild abrasive for scrubbing off tough stains on white sneakers.
• Vinegar: Effective for deodorizing and removing salt stains from leather.
• Toothpaste: Use a non-gel paste with a toothbrush for minor scuffs on rubber soles.

Specific Tips for Different Materials

• Leather Shoes: Always use a conditioner after cleaning to keep the leather supple and prevent cracks. Avoid soaking leather shoes in water.
• Suede Shoes: Invest in a suede brush and eraser. For stubborn stains, use white vinegar lightly.
• Canvas Shoes: These are machine-washable, but always air-dry to prevent shrinkage or damage to adhesives.

When to Use Professional Help

For high-end or delicate shoes, regular professional cleaning can extend their lifespan. Cobblers can also restore discolored or heavily damaged shoes, which is worth considering for premium pairs.

Enhancing Your Shoe Cleaning Kit

A complete kit should ideally include:

• A soft and a medium-bristle brush for versatile cleaning.
• A polishing cloth or sponge for shining leather shoes.
• Waterproofing sprays or creams for suede and leather.

Do’s and Don’ts for Shoe Care

Do’s:

• • Rotate your shoes to avoid overuse.
• • Store shoes in a cool, dry place.
• • Clean shoes immediately after exposure to mud or water.

Don’ts:

• • Don’t use harsh detergents; they can damage materials.
• • Avoid direct sunlight when drying shoes to prevent cracking or fading.
• • Never use excessive water on suede or leather shoes.

5 FAQs About Shoe Cleaning

Further Reading

Here are some great resources to dive deeper into shoe care:

• • How to Clean Shoes
• • Shoe Maintaining Tips

These resources will help you explore advanced shoe care techniques and products.