White leather shoes are a go-to for effortless style, but let’s be honest, they don’t stay clean for long. A quick walk through the city, a spilled coffee, or just everyday wear can turn your fresh kicks into something a little less crisp. That’s exactly why we created SneakERASERS: to make it easy to keep your shoes looking like new, without the mess or hassle.

Whether you're into classic cleaning methods or looking for a time-saving fix, this guide covers it all. Today, we’re here to teach you how to clean your white leather sneakers. Are you ready? Let’s get started!

Understanding White Leather Shoes

White leather has that clean, standout look that elevates any outfit, but it also shows everything. Smudges, water spots, and even sunlight can dull their shine. And if you’ve ever left a pair sitting out too long, you’ve probably noticed yellowing or cracking that’s tough to undo.

The good news? With a little consistent care, you can keep your white leather shoes looking box-fresh. A quick wipe-down after each wear helps, and deeper cleaning for more stubborn stains goes a long way. This kind of upkeep doesn’t just protect your style. It saves you money by helping your shoes last longer.

Cleaning Materials

If you’re sticking with the DIY route, here’s what you’ll need:

• Medium-bristle nylon brush or clean toothbrush

• Phosphate-free dish soap

• Lukewarm water

• Microfiber cloths

• Baking soda and white vinegar for tough stains

• A pH-balanced leather conditioner to finish

Or, you can skip the bulky kit and use SneakERASERS to clean your shoes in as quickly as thirty seconds. Each sponge has a white side for everyday messes and a soft orange shammy side for sensitive materials. No measuring, no mess, no damage. Just swipe and go. They’re travel-friendly and designed to save your soles in seconds. Get started with our SneakERASERS White Shoe Cleaner 20 Pack. 

How to Clean Your White Leather Shoes

1. Cleaning the Shoes With SneakERASERS

Begin by removing the laces to ensure you can reach every part of the shoe. Then, use our SneakERASERS to gently brush away any surface dirt using light, circular motions. This helps prevent pushing debris deeper into the leather.



For delicate surfaces like full-grain leather or glossy finishes, use the orange soft shammy side to gently buff and clean. For more durable or rugged leather, the white side can be used.

Take a moment to scan for specific stains—food splashes, muddy patches, or stubborn marks—so you’ll know which areas need extra love. 

The orange side also doubles as a grip, allowing you to continue using the white side of the sponge until it’s completely worn down.

2. Traditional Cleaning Method for Leather Surface

Mix ¼ teaspoon of mild dish soap with 8 ounces of warm water until you see some bubbles. Dip your microfiber cloth in, wring it out until it’s just damp, and then gently wipe the leather using smooth circles. You're not scrubbing here—think swipe, not scrub.

Rinse away any leftover soap with a second, damp cloth. Then pat dry with a clean towel and let your shoes air dry indoors (no direct sunlight or heaters, please).

3. Removing Stubborn Stains

For deeper discoloration, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water to create a paste. Apply with a soft cloth or toothbrush using light pressure, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.

You can also let SneakERASERS do the heavy lifting. The white side is designed to tackle tough marks and can even clean your favorite pair of Crocs. Just swipe in small circles until the stain disappears. No extra products required.

4. Conditioning the Leather

After any deep cleaning, leather needs moisture, just like your skin. Use a small amount of pH-balanced conditioner on a lint-free cloth and gently apply it across the shoe. Let it sit overnight so the leather can fully absorb it.

Conditioning once a month (or more often in dry climates) keeps your shoes soft, flexible, and crack-free. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Cleaning the Shoelaces

Dingy laces can ruin a clean look. Here are a few options:

• Soak laces in warm water with our SneakERASERS SOAK detergent anywhere from 2 hours to overnight. Once done, rinse and air dry. 

• Toss them in a mesh laundry bag and run them through the washing machine on a delicate cycle.

Just skip bleach if your laces aren’t white. It can cause fading.

Preventative Care Tips

Preventing stains is easier than removing them, just like any pair of shoes (e.g. your favorite Stan Smiths). After each wear:

• Wipe down your shoes with a clean cloth

• Spray them with a leather protector every couple of weeks

• Store them in breathable cotton bags with cedar shoe trees to keep their shape

• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent yellowing

Most importantly, stash a SneakERASERS sponge where you’ll actually use it: your gym bag, glove box, or entryway. Treating marks right away keeps small issues from turning into big ones.

Keep Your White Kicks Looking Fresh

White leather shoes shouldn’t be high-maintenance. We created SneakERASERS because we were tired of complicated routines, wasted time, and stained kicks. Now, there’s a smarter way to clean your shoes. 

Whether you’re tackling dirt at home or fixing scuffs on the fly, SneakERASERS gives you the confidence to step out looking your best. Use them regularly, condition your leather, and protect your shoes. It all adds up to longer-lasting footwear and less time spent cleaning.