How to Get Rid of Yellow Stains on Canvas Shoes

How to Get Rid of Yellow Stains on Canvas Shoes
Written By
Amy Davidson
Amy Davidson
Published: Dec 17, 2013
Updated: Jan 10, 2019
1 minute read
Child on a Push Scooter
Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images

White canvas shoes are a classic look that can be ruined by the appearance of yellowed stains. Yellowing occurs easily and may be caused by dirt, sweat, bleach or harsh cleaning chemicals. Keep yellow stains at bay with regular cleaning and a few easy laundering tips.

Remove the laces and wash them separately from your shoes in the washer and dryer. Throw them into a pillowcase and tie the case shut before washing to keep them together and tangle-free.

Fill a sink with lukewarm water, adding half a tablespoon of detergent to the running water to create suds. Dip a toothbrush into the soapy water and use it to scrub any heavily stained areas. Also, scrub dirt off of the soles.

Place the shoes into the washer set on warm water and a gentle, low-agitation cycle. Pour 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the washer during the rinse cycle. It will make whites even brighter and eliminate any lingering odors.

Dry the shoes in the dryer on low heat and check them every 30 minutes until dry.

Tips

Presoak shoes in white vinegar before washing to help remove odors.

For heavy yellowed stains, make a paste of warm water and baking soda, then rub it into stained areas and allow it to dry. Wash as usual, remembering to add vinegar to the rinse, and repeat as needed. Baking soda is an effective stain fighter and deodorizer that is gentle to use.

Always wash shoes alone or with one or two other pairs of white shoes. Don't overfill your washer with shoes or wash them with colorful garments or shoes that can bleed dye onto white canvas.

Photo Credits

Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images

Amy Davidson

Amy Davidson is a graduate from the University of Florida in Gainesville, with a bachelor's degree in journalism. She also writes for local papers around Gainesville doing articles on local events and news.

Sponsored
Our Everyday Life Logo

Explore our everyday life, the best source for food and drink tips, health and general wellness, healthy relationships and much more.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.