Shoes are a vital component of our wardrobe, and if properly cared for, they can last a long time. Unfortunately, shoes can develop yellow stains with time, which makes them appear old and worn out.
In this article, I will explain the significance of removing yellow stains from shoes as well as ways for removing them from various types of shoes. As “ How To Remove Yellow Stains From Shoes “ is a worldwide question but before knowing the solution you must know why shoes get yellow stains.
Why Do Yellow Stains Form On SHOES?
Yellow stains on shoes can appear for several causes.
1) Exposure to UV rays is a common reason, which can cause the materials in the shoe to break down and yellow over time.
2)Another reason is heat exposure, which can occur as a result of extended exposure to direct sunshine or a heat source.
3) Sweat and grime accumulation can also cause yellowing, especially in locations like the collar or under the laces.
4) Yellow stains can be generated by chemical reactions between the shoe material and cleaning solutions or other substances in some situations.
While proper shoe cleaning and storage can help prevent yellow stains from appearing, some discoloration may occur over time due to wear and exposure to environmental variables.
What Is The Importance Of Removing Yellow Stains From Shoes?
Before we go into methods of removing yellow stains from shoes, I would like you to know the importance of removing yellow stains from shoes.
Yellow stains on shoes can make them appear old, worn, and unappealing, other than creases on shoes. This might impact your entire appearance and give the impression that you do not care for your shoes.
Yellow stains can also degrade the shoe material over time, shortening its lifespan. You can help restore the appearance of your shoes and make them look new again by removing yellow stains. Furthermore, I would say you can extend the life of your shoes and get more use out of them.
Now I am providing unique methods for removing yellow stains from various types of shoes.
Method 1: Using Cream Of Tartar Solution ( Best For White Canvas Or White Leather Shoes)
Cream of tartar is a powdery ingredient that is usually used in baking, but it may also be used to remove yellow stains from shoes.
Here’s how to use cream of tartar to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- To make a paste, combine equal parts of cream of tartar and lemon juice in a mixing dish. The amount of solution required is determined by the size of the stain.
- Apply the cream of tartar solution to the yellow stain on your shoes using a clean cloth or a soft-bristled brush. Make sure that the solution covers the entire stain.
- Let the cream of tartar solution rest on the stain for at least 30 minutes. This will give the solution enough time to penetrate and break down the stain.
- After the solution has had time to operate, rinse the shoes with warm water to eliminate the paste. Make sure to properly rinse the shoes to remove any creams of tartar solution.
- After rinsing, thoroughly dry the shoes with a clean cloth. Avoid exposing the shoes to direct heat sources as this can cause material damage.
Important Note:
The cream of tartar solution removes the yellow stain and lifts it from the shoe material. The lemon juice in the solution serves as a natural bleaching agent, lightening the stain and restoring the shoe’s color.
It should be noted that cream of tartar should not be used on all types of shoes. It works best on white canvas or white leather shoes.
To avoid damaging the shoe material, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional cleaner if you have colored or patterned shoes.
Method 2: Using Laundry Detergent And White Vinegar
This solution works by removing the yellow stain and pulling it from the shoe. White vinegar functions as a natural bleaching agent, while laundry detergent acts as a natural cleanser. These can efficiently erase yellow stains from shoes when used together.
Here’s how to use laundry and white vinegar to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- To use this solution, make a paste with equal amounts of laundry detergent and white vinegar in a bowl. The amount of solution required will be determined by the size of the stain. Once you have the solution, apply it to the yellow stain on your shoes using a clean cloth or soft-bristled brush. Make sure the solution covers the entire stain.
- Now, let the solution remain on the stain for at least 30 minutes after applying it. This will allow the solution to penetrate and break down the discoloration.
- After the solution has had time to work, gently cleanse the stain with a soft-bristled brush. Scrub gently so as not to damage the shoe material.
- Rinse the shoes with warm water after cleaning to remove the paste. Make sure to properly rinse the shoes to remove all of the solutions.
Important Note:
It should be noted that this solution should only be used on shoes that may be washed properly. To avoid damaging the shoe material, check the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional cleaner if you have delicate or non-washable shoes.
In my experience, this treatment is an excellent way to remove yellow stains from your shoes and make them last longer.
Method 3: Using Salt And Hot Water Scrub( Best For White Canvas Shoes)
I would advise trying to scrub your shoes with a solution of hot water and salt if you have yellow stains on them and want a quick and affordable solution.
Here’s how to use salt and hot water scrub to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- To use this solution, begin by filling a bowl halfway with hot water and adding a few tablespoons of salt. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved. Then, dip a small toothbrush into the saltwater solution.
- Then, using the brush, carefully scrub the stained area of the shoe. The saltwater solution will lift the stain from the shoe material, while the brush will break it up and remove it. Scrubbing should be done gently to avoid harming the shoe material.
- Rinse the shoe with lukewarm water after cleaning the stained area to eliminate any remaining saltwater solution. Let the shoe air dry entirely after that.
- It’s important to note that this approach is especially successful on white canvas shoes because the saltwater solution helps to brighten the material and eliminate any yellow stains.
- It is also an excellent choice for shoes that cannot be machine washed or require special care, as it is a gentle and natural alternative to harsher cleaning methods.
Important Note:
It’s important to remember that this method may not work for all stains, and more resistant stains may necessitate extra treatment.
But, when dealing with yellow stains on shoes, it is a simple and inexpensive first step to take.
Method 4: Using Hydrogen Peroxide And Baking Soda
The chemical compound hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a transparent, colorless liquid with a somewhat higher viscosity than water.
Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidant that is widely used as a bleaching agent, antiseptic, and disinfectant.
Here’s how to use hydrogen peroxide and water solution to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- In a small bowl or container, combine 6 tablespoons of baking soda and 3 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide.
- You can use any concentration of hydrogen peroxide, such as 3%, 6%, or 12%.
- A 3% solution, on the other hand, is usually easily available and effective for this purpose.
- Then, gently scrub the yellow spots on your shoes using a clean cloth or sponge dipped in the solution. Avoid using too much pressure, as this can harm the material of the shoes.
- Let the solution soak for a few minutes on the stains. As the hydrogen peroxide reacts with the stain, you may notice some bubbling or fizzing.
- After a few minutes, properly rinse the shoes with water or get rid of the dried powder, and dry them with a clean towel.
- If the stains are especially strong, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
While hydrogen peroxide is good at removing stains, it can also bleach the color out of some materials, so test the solution first on a small, inconspicuous part of the shoes to ensure that it does not cause any damage.
Method 5: Using A Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish remover is a solvent that is used to remove nail polish from nails but it can also be used to remove yellow stains from shoes.
Select an acetone-based nail polish remover. Acetone is a strong solvent that may remove many different types of stains, including yellow stains on shoes.
Here’s how to use nail polish remover to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- Scrub the yellow stains on your shoes using a clean towel or cotton ball dampened with nail polish remover. If you apply too much pressure, the material of the shoes will be damaged.
- Let the nail polish remover remain for a few minutes on the stains. As the acetone reacts with the stain, you may see some bubbling or fizzing.
- After a few minutes, wipe away the nail polish remover and yellow stains using a clean cloth or sponge.
- If the stains are incredibly resistant, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
In my experience, acetone might be successful at removing stains, but it can also cause harm to particular materials, such as leather or suede.
As a result, it’s best to test the nail polish remover on a small, inconspicuous part of the shoes first to verify that it doesn’t damage them.
Method 6: Using Castile Liquid Soap
Castile liquid soap is a type of soap that is made from vegetable oils, most commonly olive oil, and water. It is named after the Spanish province of Castile, where this sort of soap originated. Castile soap is well-known for its mild and moisturizing characteristics, and it is frequently used as a natural alternative to harsh chemical-laden standard soaps.
It is also environmentally friendly because it is biodegradable and contains no animal products or by-products. Castile liquid soap has a wide range of applications, including personal hygiene, household cleaning, and even pet care. So it’s an ideal choice for removing yellow stains from shoes.
Here’s how to use castile liquid soap to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- In a bowl, combine a tiny amount of Castile liquid soap and warm water. The soap-to-water ratio should be about 1:5, with more water than soap.
- Then, apply the solution to the yellow spots on your shoes with a clean cloth or sponge. Scrub the stains gently with the solution, being careful not to use too much pressure as this might damage the shoe’s material.
- Let the solution soak for a few minutes on the stains.
- After a few minutes, properly rinse the shoes with water and dry them with a clean towel. If the stains are incredibly tenacious, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
Castile liquid soap is a gentle and natural cleaning product that is suitable for most types of shoes. But, I would advise always testing the solution on a small section of the shoes, to guarantee that it does not do any damage.
Method 7: Using Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a safe and effective way to remove yellow stains from shoes. Lemon juice’s acidic characteristics make it an ideal choice for breaking down and removing tough stains.
Here’s how to use lemon juice to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- To start, first cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a small mixing dish. If fresh lemons are not available, I would say you can use bottled lemon juice.
- Then, gently scrub the yellow stains on your shoes using a clean cloth or sponge dipped in lemon juice. Avoid using too much pressure, as this can harm the material of the shoes.
- Let the lemon juice remain for a few minutes on the stains. As the lemon juice reacts with the stain, you may observe some bubbling or fizzing.
- After a few minutes, properly rinse the shoes with water and dry them with a clean towel. If the stains are incredibly resistant, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
It’s important to remember that lemon juice will bleach the color out of some materials, so test the solution on a small, insignificant part of the shoes first to verify there’s no damage.
Lemon juice, in addition to its stain-removing qualities, has a fresh and pleasant perfume that can leave your shoes smelling clean and fresh.
Method 8: Using A Toothpaste
Toothpaste is an unexpected but efficient way to remove yellow stains from shoes. Because of its abrasive characteristics, I would say toothpaste is an ideal choice for breaking and removing tough stains.
Here’s how to use toothpaste to get rid of yellow stains on your shoes:
- To begin, select a white, non-gel toothpaste with no extra colors or stripes. Gel toothpaste may not be as good at eliminating stains as regular toothpaste.
- Then, gently massage the yellow stains on your shoes with a clean cloth or sponge dipped in toothpaste. If you apply too much pressure, the material of the shoes will be damaged.
- Let the toothpaste remain for a few minutes on the stains
- After a few minutes, wipe away the toothpaste and yellow stains with a clean cloth or sponge. If the stains are especially strong, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
It’s important to remember that like nail polish remover and lemon juice, toothpaste is also abrasive and can damage some materials, such as leather or suede. As a result, I would advise first testing the toothpaste on a tiny, insignificant region of the shoes to ensure that it does not cause any damage.
In addition to stain removal, toothpaste provides a fresh and minty aroma that can leave your shoes smelling clean and fresh.
Method 9: Using A Borax And Warm Water
Borax is a safe and effective way to remove yellow stains from shoes. Borax, commonly known as sodium borate, is a mineral with numerous cleaning applications in the home. Because of its alkaline qualities, it is a good choice for dissolving and removing stubborn stains.
I can guide you through the process of using borax to remove yellow stains from your shoes.
The steps are as follows:
- In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of borax and one cup of warm water.
- Then, gently cleanse the yellow spots on your shoes with a clean cloth or sponge dipped in the borax solution.
- Allow the borax solution to remain for a few minutes on the spots. As the solution reacts with the stains, you may see some bubbling or fizzing.
- After a few minutes, properly rinse the shoes with water and dry them with a clean towel. If the stains are incredibly stubborn, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
It’s important to remember that like nail polish remover, lemon juice, and toothpaste, borax is also abrasive and can damage some materials, such as leather or suede.
As a result, I would advise first testing the toothpaste on a tiny, insignificant region of the shoes to ensure that it does not cause any damage.
Borax is a natural deodorizer and can help eradicate any unpleasant scents from your shoes in addition to its stain-removing qualities.
Method 10: Using A Dish Soap
Dish soap, a common home item, can also be used to remove yellow stains from shoes. Dish soap’s grease-cutting properties make it an effective solution for breaking down and eliminating stubborn stains.
I can explain to you how to use dish soap to eliminate yellow stains on your shoes.
The steps are as follows:
- In a bowl, combine a tiny amount of dish soap and warm water. Mix the mixture until a soapy solution forms.
- Then, gently scrub the yellow spots on your shoes using a clean cloth or sponge dipped in the soapy solution.
- Allow the soapy solution to remain for a few minutes on the spots.
- After a few minutes, properly rinse the shoes with water and dry them with a clean towel.
- If the stains are incredibly resistant, you may need to repeat the technique several times.
Important Note:
It’s important to remember that like nail polish remover, lemon juice, toothpaste, and borax, dish soap can also be abrasive and can damage some materials, such as leather or suede. As a result, I would suggest first testing the toothpaste on a tiny, insignificant region of the shoes to ensure that it does not cause any damage.
Dish soap, in addition to cleaning stains, can also help remove odor from shoes, leaving them smelling clean and fresh.
Method 11: Using A Washing Machine (Best For Canvas Or Mesh Shoes)
In my experience, putting shoes in the washing machine is a quick and easy method for removing yellow stains, especially if they are made of canvas or mesh.
However, there are a few precautions you should take to protect your shoes and the washing machine.
- First, use a soft brush or cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris from the shoes. This will help to keep the washing machine in good working order.
- The shoes should then be placed in a mesh laundry bag to shield them from agitation and to prevent any damage to the washing machine.
- Set the machine to a mild cycle with cold water and a small amount of laundry detergent. The use of bleach or fabric softener might harm the shoes and change their color.
- After the washing cycle is over, remove the shoes from the mesh bag and air dry them. Avoid using a dryer or any direct heat on the shoes as this can cause harm.
Important Note:
It should be noted that not all shoes can be washed in the washing machine. Shoes composed of materials such as leather or suede should never be machine washed since the material might be damaged and the shape of the shoes changed.
Conclusion:
I hope now you will be much more familiar with different methods and you might have got your answer about “ how to remove yellow stains from shoes”.
As a stain removal specialist, I always advise spot testing before attempting to remove stains. It’s also critical to use the proper tools and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods that could harm the shoe. After removing the stain, properly dry the shoe to prevent future damage or discoloration.
Finally, I would say eliminating yellow stains from shoes is an essential part of shoe care. These stains can be cleaned without causing damage to the shoe by using effective and natural methods such as cream of tartar solution, laundry detergent and white vinegar, salt and hot water scrub, and baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. You can help to keep your shoes looking their best and extend their lifespan by taking care of them and eliminating stains regularly.
FAQ’s
1. Can bleach be used to remove yellow stains from my shoes?
While bleach can remove yellow stains from white shoes, it can be too harsh for colorful or fragile materials. It is usually essential to spot-test any cleaning solution and follow the precise directions for your shoe’s material.
2. Can toothpaste be used to erase yellow stains from my shoes?
Toothpaste can remove tiny stains off shoes, but it may not be useful for larger or more stubborn stains. Also, toothpaste can be abrasive and might damage delicate materials, so use it with caution.
3. How can I avoid getting yellow stains on my shoes in the first place?
To avoid yellow stains, avoid sources of discoloration such as UV radiation, high heat, and harsh chemicals. It’s also essential to clean and keep your shoes properly to avoid dirt and sweat buildup, which can cause discoloration.
4. Is it safe to clean all types of shoes with natural cleaning solutions?
While natural cleaning solutions are generally safe for most types of shoes, it’s always a good idea to test any cleaning solution on a small area of the shoe before putting it on the complete shoe. Some materials may be more susceptible to particular cleaning procedures than others, therefore it’s critical to discover the best cleaning methods for your specific shoe material.
5. Is it possible for professional shoe cleaners to remove yellow stains from shoes?
Professional shoe cleaners may be able to remove yellow stains from shoes, but it is important to choose a trustworthy cleaner with experience dealing with various types of shoes and stains. Also, professional cleaning can be more expensive than DIY methods, so assess the costs and benefits before deciding on this option.
About Author:
Hammad Qadir is a passionate fashion blogger with a passion for shoes, spanning over seven years. As the driving force behind “ShoesFulcrum.com” he offers unparalleled insights into iconic brands like Crocs, Hey Dude, and Birkenstock. With a collection of a hundred pairs, his expertise extends to industry giants like Nike and Adidas. Through insightful reviews and recommendations, Hammad guides readers to their perfect pair. Hammad’s knack for differentiating between brands and guiding readers makes him a trusted authority. Active on Quora, Reddit, Medium, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, he fosters engagement and shares exclusive content. Read more...
