How to Clean White Shoelaces and Eliminate Stubborn Dirt Easily

It is hard to go unnoticed when what is supposed to be white shoelaces are all dirty and soiled, virtually ruining your look. This is just unacceptable unless you are a little kid, but since you are not, you’d probably want your white shoelaces to look as clean as possible. We hear you, and you are in luck because today, we’ll be telling you how to clean white shoelaces.

Your white shoelaces getting dirty is like saying the sun comes out every; it is a fact, period. In other words, trying to avoid this is a waste of time; it will happen sooner rather than later. Now, shoelaces are the part connected to your shoes that you come in contact with the most. Having that thought in mind, you’d probably want them to be clean before you touch them, right!

Well, you can make your white shoelaces look new again by learning how to clean them. While it is not hard at all, there are a few tips and tricks, and steps that you should follow to get the best results possible. Now that you know keeping your shoelaces clean is not really a difficult task, grab yourself pen and paper and check out how to clean white shoelaces the right way.

Why do shoelaces get dirty?

Remember that shoelaces are typically made of absorbent materials like cotton, and laces generally drag on the ground; so, dirt tends to show up faster, meaning they often get grimy before the rest of the shoe does.

How often should white shoelaces be cleaned?

Regular washing will likely be needed to maintain their brightness. Remember you are handling white color shoelaces, meaning they will get dirty a lot faster.

How to clean white shoelaces

If your white shoelaces are starting to look dingy, there’s no need to get rid of them just yet. Luckily, cleaning white shoelaces can be done with basic cleaning products you probably already have at home. Check out a few different methods to clean your white shoelaces quickly and pain-free.

Clean white shoelaces by hand

Tools:

• Toothbrush
• Stain treatment
• Heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent
• Large bowl

Directions:

1. Get your white shoelaces wet.
2. Using the stain remover, treat them as needed.
3. Mix four cups of hot water and a half teaspoon of laundry detergent in your large bowl.
4. Place your white laces in the bowl.
5. Let them soak in the warm water for approximately 30 minutes.
6. Once soaked, softly remove any remaining dirt with a clean toothbrush.
7. Rinse the shoelaces thoroughly.
8. Hang them and allow them to air-dry.

How to Clean White Shoelaces in the washing machine

Tools:

• Toothbrush
• Stain treatment
• Heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent
• Mesh laundry bag

Directions:

1. Get the laces wet and scrub away any loose dirt with a clean toothbrush.
2. Apply stain remover to any discolored areas.
3. Allow the formula to do its thing for about 20 minutes to half an hour.
4. Place your laces in the mesh laundry. You are trying to avoid laces from getting tangled or stuck inside the washing machine.
5. Add some liquid detergent to your load of white laundry. You can also add a bit of bleach to the load since it’s all whites.
6. Wash in warm to hot water.
7. Once the cycle is finished, hang the laces to air dry.

How to Clean White Shoelaces using Clorox bleach

This shoelace cleaning method is recommended for extreme cases only. So, in the scenario that your white shoelaces are in need of more intensive stain treatments, here’s what you can do:

Tools:

• Mesh laundry bag
• Clorox bleach
• Laundry detergent
• Large bowl

Directions:

1. Mix three tablespoons of Clorox bleach in a gallon of water in a large bowl.
2. Place your laces inside a mesh laundry bag.
3. Submerge the laundry bag in the bleach solution. To make sure the bag stays submerged, place a small plate on top of it.
4. Let the laces soak for five minutes.
5. Wash in warm or hot water with laundry detergent.
6. Rinse the shoelaces thoroughly.
7. Hang them and allow them to air-dry.

How to Clean White Shoelaces using dishwasher detergent

Tools:

• Dishwasher detergent
• Baking soda
• Warm water
• Bowl or container

Directions:

1. In a bowl, mix all ¼ cup of dishwashing detergent, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and 2 cups of warm water.
2. Swish them around, making sure the laces are completely covered.
3. Let them soak for one hour.
4. Rinse out the laces.
5. Transfer them to a drying rack to air dry.

How to Clean White Shoelaces Without Bleach

Tools:

• Mild laundry detergent
• Bowl or container
• Soft toothbrush
• Clean towel
• Warm water

Directions:

1. Remove the shoelaces from your shoes.
2. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent in a bowl.
3. Submerge the laces in the solution and let them soak for 30 minutes.
4. Gently scrub the laces with a soft toothbrush to remove dirt.
5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
6. Lay the laces flat on a towel to air-dry.

How to Clean White Laces with Baking Soda

Tools:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Soft toothbrush
• Bowl
• Clean towel

Directions:

1. Create a paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of water.
2. Apply the paste to the laces using a soft toothbrush.
3. Scrub gently, focusing on stained or dirty areas.
4. Let the paste sit on the laces for 15-20 minutes.
5. Rinse the laces thoroughly with warm water.
6. Air-dry the laces on a clean towel.

How to Clean White Shoelaces Without Removing Them

Tools:

• Spray bottle
• Mild laundry detergent
• Soft toothbrush or cloth
• Clean towel
• Warm water

Directions:

1. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Spray the solution generously onto the laces while they are still attached to the shoes.
3. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth to scrub the laces gently.
4. Spray clean water onto the laces to rinse off the detergent.
5. Blot the laces with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
6. Allow the shoes and laces to air-dry completely.

How to Clean White shoelaces with Hydrogen Peroxide

Tools:

• Hydrogen peroxide
• Dish soap
• Bowl or container
• Soft toothbrush
• Clean towel
• Water

Directions:

1. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a bowl, and add a few drops of dish soap.
2. Remove the shoelaces from the shoes and submerge them in the solution.
3. Let the laces soak for 30 minutes.
4. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away dirt and stains.
5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all residue.
6. Air-dry the laces on a clean towel.

Extra Tips on How to Clean White Shoelaces

• When handwashing and for extra brightening effects, add a teaspoon of bleach to the water and let them soak for 30 minutes.
• Bear in mind that if your laces are made with synthetic fibers, they can only be whitened using oxygen-based bleach.
• Shoelaces should not be dried in the air dryer. The high heat can distort the plastic tips at the end.
• When drying your white shoelaces, use an actual hanger or a basic household hook to do so.
• If machine washing your white shoelaces, and if you don’t have a mesh laundry bag, an old pillowcase with a zipper closure works just fine.
• No matter what method you decide to use to clean your white shoelaces, they will respond well to bleach and soaking.

Tips to keep your white shoelaces from getting dirty

• If you want to keep your white shoelaces clean for a few days at least, avoid wearing your footwear anywhere you know, they will likely get stained.
• If you are going somewhere you know it’ll get muddy, do not wear white shoelaces. Opt to wear the darkest laces possible.
• Keep your shoes boxed! Store shoes away from dust and anything that can potentially soil them that including your pets.

When white shoelaces are beyond cleaning

There will come a time and place where all you’ll be able to do is replace your white shoelaces. In that case, check out these great options.

Converse White Shoe Laces 45 Inches

These are 45″ laces made from 100% polyester. Find them on Amazon.

DELELE 2Pair Oval Shoes laces

These are high quality and fit for hiking shoes and soot, outdoor walking sneakers, outdoor hiking shoes, climbing shoes, basketball shoes, work boot shoes, or running shoes. Find them on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning white shoelaces may seem like a small task, but it can make a huge difference in maintaining your footwear’s fresh and polished look. Over the years, I’ve tried countless methods, and I can confidently say that with the right tools and techniques, anyone can achieve brilliant results. Whether you’re handwashing, using the washing machine, or trying a more intensive method like bleach or dishwasher detergent, there’s always a way to restore your shoelaces to their original white.

Remember, learning how to clean white shoelaces isn’t just about appearances—it’s also about prolonging their life and avoiding unnecessary replacements. By following the steps outlined in this guide and applying the preventive tips, you’ll save time and money while keeping your footwear in top-notch condition.

I’d love to hear about your experiences! What’s your go-to method for cleaning white shoelaces? Have you discovered any tips or tricks I didn’t mention? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below—I’m always eager to learn from you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Way to Clean White Shoelaces?

The best way to clean white shoelaces is by soaking them in a solution that targets dirt and stains effectively. Start by removing the shoelaces from your shoes, as this allows for a more thorough cleaning. Using a mixture of warm water and a small amount of laundry detergent, soak the laces for about 30 minutes. For stubborn stains, treat the laces with a stain remover or a pinch of baking soda to lift grime. After soaking, gently scrub the laces with a soft toothbrush to remove any remaining debris. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, and air-dry the laces to maintain their shape and color. This method ensures your white shoelaces regain their pristine appearance.

How Do I Wash My Shoelaces in the Washing Machine?

Washing shoelaces in the machine is a convenient and effective option. Start by placing your laces in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling or damage during the cycle. Pre-treat any stains with a stain remover or mild detergent, letting it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing. Add the mesh bag to a load of whites and use a warm water cycle for the best results. For an extra boost, you can add a small amount of bleach, but only if your laces are cotton or polyester. Avoid using high heat for drying; instead, air-dry them to prevent damage to the material. This method is perfect for restoring your shoelaces with minimal effort.

How Do I Clean Shoelaces Quickly?

When time is limited, a quick cleaning solution is your best bet. Mix equal parts of warm water and mild detergent in a bowl. Submerge your laces and gently agitate them to loosen dirt. For faster stain removal, apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stains and scrub lightly with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and blot the laces with a clean towel to remove excess water. Hang them to air-dry for a quick turnaround. This fast and efficient method is ideal for busy individuals who want clean shoelaces without sacrificing too much time.

How Do You Get White Shoelaces White Again?

Restoring the brightness of white shoelaces involves targeted cleaning techniques. Pre-soak your laces in a mixture of warm water, laundry detergent, and a tablespoon of baking soda for about 30 minutes. For heavy stains, use a diluted bleach solution—three tablespoons of bleach in one gallon of water. Submerge the laces in the solution for no more than five minutes to avoid damage. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and air-dry. Avoid using harsh abrasives or high heat, as these can weaken the fibers. With these steps, your white shoelaces can look as good as new.

Does Vinegar Whiten Laces?

Yes, vinegar is an excellent natural solution for whitening laces. Its acidic properties help break down dirt and stains effectively without harsh chemicals. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts warm water in a bowl. Submerge your laces and let them soak for 30-45 minutes. For tough stains, sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the laces before scrubbing gently with a toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and hang them to dry. Vinegar not only whitens laces but also removes odors, making it an eco-friendly and efficient cleaning option.