White sneakers are one of the most versatile things you can own, and also the fastest to look tired. The good news is that keeping them clean doesn't require anything specialist — just a bit of consistency.
What you'll need
- A soft-bristle brush (an old toothbrush works fine)
- Mild soap or a dedicated sneaker cleaner
- A microfibre cloth
- Warm water
- Shoe trees, if you have them, to help the shoe keep its shape while drying
Step by step
Start by removing the laces and insoles — wash the laces separately in soapy water so you're not scrubbing around them. Brush off any loose dirt while the shoe is still dry; wetting caked-on dirt first just turns it into paste that's harder to remove.
Mix a small amount of mild soap into warm water, dip the brush, and work in small circular motions over the upper. Focus on one section at a time rather than soaking the whole shoe at once — leather and canvas both handle a light, controlled clean far better than a full soak.
Wipe away the soap with a damp microfibre cloth, then a dry one to lift excess moisture. Stuff the shoe loosely with paper or use shoe trees to help it hold its shape, and let it air dry away from direct sun or a heater — direct heat can warp soles and crack certain materials.
What to avoid
Skip the washing machine. It's tempting, but the agitation and heat can separate glued soles and damage cushioning far faster than hand cleaning wears a shoe down. Also avoid bleach on anything with coloured detailing, even small logo accents — it can bleed and stain the surrounding white.
Maintenance beats restoration
A quick wipe-down after a dusty day is far easier than a deep clean after weeks of neglect. If you're regularly on Nairobi's roads and pavements, a five-minute wipe once or twice a week keeps white sneakers looking new for much longer.
Need a fresh pair to start the habit with? Browse our current range.