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Home remedies vs. shoe cleaners: What actually works?

Written by SHOEGR  »  Updated on: July 04th, 2025 57 views

Home remedies vs. shoe cleaners: What actually works?

When your favorite pair of shoes starts to look dirty or worn out, the first question that often comes to mind is—should I clean them with something at home or buy a proper shoe cleaner?

It’s a fair question.

With social media full of DIY hacks and your mom swearing by toothpaste for white shoes, it can get confusing to know what’s actually good for your shoes in the long run.

So, let’s break it down honestly: Home remedies vs. Shoe cleaners—what really works better?

What counts as a “Home Remedy”?

Home remedies usually include items you already have in your kitchen or bathroom like:

  • Baking soda – for deodorizing and whitening.
  • Toothpaste – for scrubbing soles and canvas.
  • Vinegar – to lift stains and kill bacteria.
  • Dish soap – to break down grime.
  • Lemon juice – as a natural bleaching agent.
  • Old toothbrushes or cotton cloths – for scrubbing.

These are often used in different combinations to scrub, whiten, or freshen up shoes. Most people love this approach because it’s cheap, easy, and chemical-free.

What’s in a shoe cleaner kit?

A good shoe cleaning kit usually includes:

  • A cleaning solution (specially made for shoes).
  • Shoe cleaning brushes (soft, medium and hard)
  • A microfiber cloth.
  • Sometimes a deodorizer or waterproofing spray.

These products are designed specifically for cleaning different shoe materials like suede, leather, mesh, and canvas. They’re built to remove dirt without damaging fabric or color.

What actually works?

✅ When home remedies work well?

  • Cleaning light dirt or surface dust.
  • Quick fixes when you’re in a hurry.
  • Freshening up insoles or laces.

But they come with a catch—you have to be really careful. For example:

  • Vinegar can fade colors.
  • Toothpaste may scratch or leave marks on leather.
  • Baking soda might dry out some materials.

So while it might work once or twice, it’s not ideal as a long-term solution—especially for expensive or delicate shoes. We never recommend using these products on your footwears.

When shoe cleaners are better:

  • For deep cleaning or removing tough stains.
  • To keep the shape and color of the shoe intact.
  • For long-term care, waterproofing, and odor control.
  • When you’re tired of scrubbing with kitchen ingredients and want a clean look in minutes.
  • When you truly love your shoes and don’t want to compromise on them.

Most modern sneaker cleaners are gentle yet effective, made with safe formulas that won’t ruin your shoes—even after repeated use.

Real user insight: What most people miss

Many people clean their shoes once and forget about it for months. But just like clothes or skincare, shoes need regular care to stay in shape.

Whether it's dirt buildup, sweaty odors, rainy weather, or just daily wear—shoes take a beating. That’s why consistent, proper cleaning and storage is key.

Also: dirty shoes don’t just look bad—they can harbor bacteria and even cause foot issues. So cleaning them is more than just about looks.

Final thoughts

If you truly care about your shoes—especially if they’re expensive, branded, or limited edition—it’s worth investing in a good shoe cleaning kit. Think of it like skincare: sure, you can wash your face with soap, but a proper cleanser made for your skin type always does a better job.

So next time your sneakers get dirty, ask yourself—is this a quick fix or does this pair deserve something better? Either way, what matters most is that your shoes get the care they deserve.



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