How to Clean Shoes with Toothpaste

Cleaning your shoes with toothpaste can be a surprisingly effective way to restore their appearance and remove stubborn stains. Whether you're dealing with canvas sneakers or leather shoes, this method offers a simple and affordable solution. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get your shoes looking fresh and clean.

Part 1: Getting Ready to Clean

Choose the Right Toothpaste:

Opt for white, non-gel toothpaste. Gel toothpaste may not clean as effectively and could potentially stain certain types of shoes, especially white ones. Before applying it to your shoes, ensure it doesn't have any abrasive components that could damage the material.

Prepare Your Tools:

• Old Toothbrush or Cleaning Pad: Use a toothbrush that you no longer use for brushing your teeth. Alternatively, a cleaning pad can be effective, especially for larger areas or tougher stains.

• Cloth or Sponge: Have a damp cloth or sponge ready for wiping off the toothpaste residue later.

Test on a Small Area:

Before you start cleaning the entire shoe, test a small amount of toothpaste on a discreet spot. This helps ensure that the toothpaste won't discolor or damage your shoes.

Part 2: Scrubbing with a Toothbrush

Apply Toothpaste:

Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto the toothbrush or cleaning pad. You don't need a large amount; a pea-sized dab is usually sufficient.

Scrub Gently:

Begin scrubbing the shoe's surface gently in circular motions. The amount of pressure you apply should depend on the shoe's material and color. For darker shoes or tough stains, you can scrub more vigorously, whereas for delicate or lighter-colored shoes, a gentler touch is advisable.

Let It Sit:

Allow the toothpaste to sit on the shoes for about 10 minutes. This gives it time to penetrate and loosen dirt and stains effectively.

Wipe Off Excess:

After the toothpaste has had time to work, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe off the toothpaste residue. Continue wiping until all traces of toothpaste are removed from the shoe's surface.

Part 3: Wiping with a Soap and Water Solution

Prepare the Solution:

• Mix Water and Dish Soap: In a clean spray bottle, mix five parts water with one part dish soap. This solution will help remove any remaining dirt and toothpaste residue.

Apply the Solution:

• Spray the soap and water solution onto a clean cloth or sponge.

• Use the cloth to wipe the entire shoe, focusing on areas that were particularly dirty or stained.

Dry the Shoes:

After wiping with the soap and water solution, use a dry cloth to thoroughly dry the shoes. Ensure they are completely dry before wearing them again.

Conclusion

Cleaning your shoes with toothpaste is a budget-friendly and effective method to restore their cleanliness and appearance. By following these simple steps, you can remove dirt, stains, and odors without the need for expensive cleaners or specialized equipment.

Remember to choose the right toothpaste, test it on a small area first, and use gentle scrubbing motions to avoid damaging your shoes. Incorporate this cleaning method into your regular shoe care routine to keep your footwear looking its best for longer.

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