Cleaning yellowing from shoe soles can be a daunting task, especially when you don’t have the right cleaning supplies. But have no fear! It is possible to clean yellow soles with household items you already have at home.
Whether you are trying to clean yellowed sneakers, dress shoes, or sandals, you can clean the yellow appearance from your shoe soles using your household items. Now you may be wondering how to clean yellow soles with household items.
Typically, you can easily remove yellowing from shoe soles using a solution of baking soda, white vinegar, or toothpaste. You only need to scrub the soles of your shoe with the solution to remove the yellow discoloration.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to use household items to remove yellowing from shoe soles.
Reasons Shoe Soles Become Yellow
Yellowing of shoe soles is a common issue faced by many shoe owners. Several factors can cause the discoloration of shoe soles. Here are a few reasons why your shoe soles may become yellow:
1. Excessive Exposure to Sunlight
Excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause the rubber of the shoe sole to discolor. This is more common with white shoes, as the whiteness of the sole acts like a magnifying glass and intensifies the effect of the UV rays.
2. Ageing
With time, rubber soles will start to yellow regardless of the weather. This is simply because the rubber material of the shoe sole degrades over time, and the yellowing is a sign of age.
3. Oil and dirt
Oil and dirt can build up on the shoe sole and cause it to be yellow. This is particularly common with shoes that are used for outdoor activities such as running or hiking and with shoes that are worn in dirty or wet environments.
4. Poor Quality
Certain types of cheap rubber soles are more prone to yellowing due to their lower quality.
How To Remove Yellowing From Shoe Soles Using Household Items
Dirty and yellowed soles can be a real eyesore on a pair of shoes. Fortunately, you don’t have to buy expensive cleaning products to make them look new. With a few household items and a little elbow grease, your shoe soles will look good as new again.
Here are steps to follow to remove yellowing from your shoe soles using household item:
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before you get started, you will need a few items. You will need:
- An old toothbrush
- A soft cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Dish soap
Step 2: Mix Cleaning Solution
Create a cleaning solution by combining equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar in a bowl. Stir until the mixture forms a paste.
Step 3: Apply Paste to Soles
Using the old toothbrush, apply the paste to the yellowed areas of the soles. Rub gently in a circular motion to help loosen the dirt and discoloration.
Step 4: Let Paste Sit
Allow the paste to sit on the soles for 10–15 minutes. This will help it penetrate the dirt and discoloration and make removing it easier.
Step 5: Rinse Paste
Rinse the paste off with warm water. Use a soft cloth to help remove any remaining paste or dirt.
Step 6: Spot Clean
If you still have stubborn stains, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. Dip the toothbrush into the mixture and gently scrub the stained area. Lastly, rinse with warm water and repeat as needed.
Step 7: Dry Soles
Once the soles are clean, make sure to dry them thoroughly. You can use a soft cloth to help absorb any excess moisture.
Other Ways To Clean Yellow Soles With Household Items
Apart from white soda and vinegar, you can also use other household items to clean your yellow soles. Here we’ve discussed some simple and effective ways to clean yellow items, no matter if it is your shoes, with household items.
Here are other household items you can clean your yellow shoe soles with:
1. Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a great way to remove yellow soles. Simply apply a generous amount of toothpaste to the yellow sole and scrub with a soft brush. Rinse with warm water and let the sole dry.
2. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural cleaning agent that can clean your yellow rubber soles. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water and apply to the yellow sole. Let it sit for a few minutes, scrub it with a soft brush, and rinse with warm water.
3. Dish Soap
Dish soap is another great way to get rid of yellow soles. Simply mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water and apply to the yellow sole. Let it sit for a few minutes, and scrub it with a soft brush. Rinse with warm water and let the sole dry.
Aftercare Tips for Cleaning Yellow Soles
When it comes to keeping your freshly cleaned yellow soles looking new, it’s important to take the proper steps for aftercare. Proper aftercare will help keep your soles looking great for years to come.
Below are some helpful tips for aftercare on yellow soles.
- Condition the Leather: Conditioning your yellow soles with a leather conditioner or wax will help keep them from drying out and cracking. When applying the conditioner, apply a thin layer and evenly spread it around.
- Avoid Water: Keeping your yellow soles away from water will help protect them from discoloration and damage. Water can also cause the leather to dry out and crack. If you need to clean your shoes, spot-clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Use Protective Sprays: Applying protective sprays to your yellow soles can help protect them from dirt, stains, and water. However, you should apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and in thin, even layers.
- Store Properly: When storing your yellow soles, ensure they are stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help keep them from drying out and cracking.
- Clean Regularly: Regularly cleaning your yellow soles will help them stay looking new. In that case, you have to use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft cloth.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cleaning Yellow Soles
When cleaning yellow soles, be cautious and aware of certain mistakes that can damage the material. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cleaning yellow soles:
1. Using Abrasive Materials
Abrasive materials such as steel wool or wire brushes can cause scratches and damage to the yellow sole material, making it look worse than it was before. Instead, opt for a soft-bristled brush and gentle cleaning agents.
2. Using Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can cause discoloration and fading of the yellow soles. In that case, you can use mild detergents or even soap and water.
3. Over-saturating the Material
Too much liquid can cause the yellow sole material to become saturated, leading to discoloration and fading. Using a damp cloth to clean yellow soles and avoid over-saturating the material is best.
4. Not Protecting the Material
If you use a cleaner or detergent, protect the yellow sole from harsh chemicals. You can apply a waterproofing spray or coat of wax after cleaning to protect the material from future damage.
Conclusion
So next time you have yellow soles, don’t worry – just follow these easy steps on how to clean yellowing from shoe soles with household items. Removing yellow soles from shoes using household items is a simple and cost-effective way to keep your shoes looking new.
With a few everyday items, such as baking soda, white vinegar, and toothpaste, you can easily remove any dirt, stains, or discoloration from your shoes and make them look new.