Cleaning White Leather Sneakers

Not all leathers are equal. White sneakers often use 'finished' leather, offering more protection against stains than 'unfinished' varieties. Know your sneaker's leather to choose the right cleaning approach.

Before cleaning, remove laces and insoles. Use a soft brush to gently remove loose dirt. This prevents scratching the leather during the wet cleaning process.

Mix a solution of warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip leather's natural oils. A well-diluted soap preserves the leather’s integrity while effectively cleaning.

Using a soft cloth or sponge, apply the soapy solution in a circular motion. Don’t soak the leather; excessive water can cause damage. Focus on stained areas but be gentle.

Pat sneakers dry with a microfiber cloth. Never use direct heat to dry leather. Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep your white sneakers soft, supple, and crack-free.

Leather can actually self-heal minor scratches by absorbing natural oils from your skin, reducing visible damage over time. Fascinating, right?