Clean your dirty trainers with these top tips
White trainers are a sitting target for dirt. The good news is, like most of us, they ‘scrub up’ well. With the right products hand cleaning your trainers is effective and doesn’t take too much effort at all.
Hand Cleaning Essentials
When coming back from a muddy walk allow your trainers to air dry. Once they have dried, knock them together outside so the mud falls off. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a drop of liquid laundry detergent or washing up liquid. Scrub using a circular motion, starting with the upper part and finishing with the sole.
The Magic Eraser
If the soles are still not looking quite as clean as they could be, use a magic eraser (melamine sponge). They work their magic by physically removing stains like sandpaper. Miracle sponges are available in my QOC range—Get Yours Here.
Toothpaste Trick
For tough stains, white toothpaste is a great alternative to expensive cleaners. Just add a generous amount to the area and rub in using an old recycled toothbrush. Wipe away with a damp cloth for a minty fresh, bright white finish!
The Washing Machine Debate
Should you put your trainers in the washing machine? I advise this is personal choice. I DO sometimes wash our trainers in the machine, but I DO so with care as it can weaken the bonding agents.
- Choose a low heat setting (no more than 30 degrees) and a low spin.
- Use an old pillowcase or laundry bag.
- Remove laces and shoe liners so they don't get stuck.
- Use a liquid detergent mixed with a big spoonful of bicarbonate of soda as a whitener.
- DO NOT ADD ANYTHING ELSE TO THE MACHINE.
Finishing Touches
Revitalise your trainers by replacing the laces or cleaning them in boiling water with bicarbonate of soda (never bleach them!). To keep them box fresh, invest in shoe care products such as a suede or leather protector. Use them as soon as you get your trainers and after every couple of wears.
You can catch up with my full trainer cleaner demo from ITV’s This Morning here.
Lynsey Queen of Clean xoxo
