How To Remove Yellow Stains From Shoes (Best 11 Methods)

In footwear fashion, maintaining the pristine look of your beloved shoes is crucial. Yellow stains and creases on shoes can be common problems that plague many shoe enthusiasts. These discolourations can quickly turn a pair of sneakers from fresh to faded, whether caused by sweat, dirt, or the passage of time. Learn how to remove yellow stains from shoes with this comprehensive guide to banish pesky yellow marks and revive your footwear. Get ready to learn about innovative techniques and powerful cleaners that will have your shoes looking as good as new in no time.

Why Do Yellow Stains Form On SHOES?

Yellow stains on shoes can form for several reasons:

1. Oxidation: Over time, exposure to air causes the materials in your shoes to break down. This natural process can lead to yellowing of the shoe’s surface.
2. Moisture and Mould: Shoes exposed to high humidity or moisture levels are susceptible to mold growth. Mould often appears as yellow stains on shoes, mainly leather and fabric.
3. Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially UV rays, can lead to color fading and yellowing of the materials. This is particularly noticeable in white or light-coloured shoes.

Understanding the causes of yellow stains on your shoes is essential because it helps you choose the most appropriate method to effectively remove these unsightly marks and keep your footwear looking fresh.

What Is The Importance Of Removing Yellow Stains From Shoes?

Removing yellow stains from shoes is essential for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Yellow stains can significantly diminish the overall look of your shoes. Removing these stains restores your footwear’s original, clean appearance, enhancing overall style and confidence.
2.  Prolonged Lifespan: Yellowing is often a sign of material deterioration. By removing the stains, you can extend the lifespan of your shoes, saving you money in the long run.
3.  Maintain Professionalism: Clean and well-maintained shoes are essential in formal or business settings. Removing yellow stains ensures that your boots maintain a professional and presentable look.
4.  Hygiene: Stains on shoes can sometimes harbor bacteria or fungi, leading to unpleasant odors. Cleaning your boots prevents these hygiene issues.
5.  Resale Value: If you plan to sell or donate your shoes in the future, having stain-free footwear can significantly increase their resale or donation value.
6.  Personal Satisfaction: Wearing clean and stain-free shoes makes a good impression on others and boosts your self-esteem and satisfaction with your appearance.

Removing yellow stains from shoes goes beyond aesthetics; it contributes to your footwear’s longevity, hygiene, and overall image.

Methods For How To Remove Yellow Stains From Shoes:

The following are the best methods for how to remove yellow stains from shoes. You can pick one that works best for you.

Method 1: Using Cream Of Tartar Solution ( Best For White Canvas Or White Leather Shoes)

A cream of tartar solution effectively removes yellow stains, particularly on white canvas or white leather shoes. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Cream of tartar
•  Water
•  Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush
•  Clean cloth or sponge
•  Bowl

Steps:

1. Prepare the Solution:
   • In a bowl, mix a small amount of cream of tartar with an equal amount of water to form a paste. It’s essential to achieve a paste-like consistency for effective cleaning.
2. Apply the Paste:
   • Apply the cream of tartar paste to the yellow stains on your white shoes. Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush for application. Make sure to cover the affected areas thoroughly.
3. Scrub Gently:
   • With the paste applied, start scrubbing the stains in a circular motion. Be gentle to avoid damaging the shoe’s surface. The cream of tartar acts as a mild abrasive, helping to lift the yellowing.
4. Let it Sit:
   • Allow the paste to sit on the stains for 15-20 minutes. This gives it time to work on breaking down the yellow discoloration.
5. Wipe and Rinse:
   • After the waiting period, dampen a clean cloth or sponge and wipe away the cream of tartar paste. Make sure to remove all residue.
6. Dry Thoroughly:
   • Let your shoes air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight during this process, as sunlight can cause further yellowing.
7. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If the stains are still visible after the first attempt, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

A cream of tartar solution is particularly suitable for white canvas or white leather shoes, as it effectively removes stains while being gentle on these materials. It’s a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for restoring the pristine look of your shoes.

Method 2: Using Laundry Detergent And White Vinegar

Using a combination of laundry detergent and white vinegar is an effective method for removing yellow stains from your shoes. This method suits various shoe materials, including canvas, fabric, and leather shoes. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Laundry detergent
•  White vinegar
•  Water
•  Soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush
•  Bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare a Cleaning Solution:
   • Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of laundry detergent. Mix until it creates a soapy solution.
2. Add White Vinegar:
   • Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the soapy solution. Vinegar helps to break down stains and eliminate odors.
3. Dampen the Cloth or Sponge:
   • Soak a clean cloth or sponge in the soapy vinegar solution. Wring it out slightly to avoid excessive dripping.
4. Gently Scrub Stains:
   • Use a damp cloth or sponge to gently scrub the yellow stains on your shoes. Apply some pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
5. Use a Soft Brush:
   • Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush for tougher stains or if your shoes have textured surfaces. Again, scrub gently to avoid any damage.
6. Rinse and Dry:
   • After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any detergent or vinegar residue.
7. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Do not expose them to direct sunlight or use a dryer, which can cause further yellowing.
8. Repeat if Needed:
   • If the yellow stains are still visible after the first attempt, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Using a combination of laundry detergent and white vinegar is an effective and safe method for rejuvenating your shoes and removing yellow stains. It’s beneficial for white or light-coloured shoes, as it helps restore their original brightness and freshness.

Method 3: Using Salt And Hot Water Scrub( Best For White Canvas Shoes)

A salt and hot water scrub is an excellent method, especially for white canvas shoes, to remove yellow stains effectively. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Table salt
•  Hot water
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare the Salt Solution:
   • Mix a few tablespoons of table salt in a bowl with hot water. Ensure the water is desirable but not boiling, as extreme heat can damage canvas material.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Soak a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush in the saltwater solution. You can also use a clean cloth or sponge if you prefer a softer scrubbing tool.
3. Scrub the Stains:
   • Gently scrub the yellow stains on your white canvas shoes using a damp brush, cloth, or sponge. Apply moderate pressure, but avoid being too harsh to prevent damaging the canvas.
4. Focus on Problem Areas:
   • Pay extra attention to the areas with the most significant yellowing. Continue scrubbing until you see the stains start to fade.
5. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • Rinse your shoes with warm water to remove the salt and loosened dirt or stains.
6. Air Dry:
   • Allow your canvas shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, which can lead to yellowing or fading.
7. Repeat if Needed:
   • If the stains persist, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

This method is particularly effective for white canvas shoes because the abrasiveness of the salt helps lift and remove the stains without harming the material. Following these steps, you can restore your canvas footwear’s clean and fresh look.

Method 4: Using Hydrogen Peroxide And Baking Soda

Using a combination of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda is a powerful method for removing yellow stains from shoes. This method works well for various shoe materials, including leather, canvas, and fabric. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
•  Baking soda
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution:
   • In a bowl, create a paste by mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Start with a few tablespoons of baking soda and add enough hydrogen peroxide to form a thick, consistent paste.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Dampen a soft-bristle brush, an old toothbrush, or a clean cloth with water. This will be used to scrub the shoe’s surface.
3. Apply the Paste:
   • Gently spread the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste over the yellow stains on your shoes. Make sure to cover the affected areas thoroughly.
4. Scrub Gently:
   • Use a damp brush, toothbrush, or cloth to scrub the stains in a circular motion. Apply moderate pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
5. Allow to Sit:
   • Let the paste sit on the stains for about 30 minutes. This gives it time to work on breaking down the yellow discoloration.
6. Rinse and Dry:
   • After waiting, rinse your shoes with clean water to remove the paste and any loosened dirt or stains.
7. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight during this process, as it can cause further yellowing.
8. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If the stains are still visible after the first attempt, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda effectively remove yellow stains from shoes. It can help rejuvenate your footwear’s appearance and keep them fresh and clean.

Method 5: Using A Nail Polish Remover

Using nail polish remover can effectively remove yellow stains from shoes, especially on certain materials. It’s essential to note that this method is primarily suitable for leather or vinyl shoes. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Acetone-based nail polish remover (make sure it’s acetone-based)
•  Cotton balls or a clean cloth
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean water
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Check Shoe Material Compatibility:
   • Ensure that your shoes are either leather or vinyl, as acetone can damage other materials.
2. Test in an Inconspicuous Area:
   • Before applying the nail polish remover to the visible parts of your shoes, test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse effects.
3. Dampen a Cloth or Cotton Ball:
   • Dampen a clean cloth or cotton ball with acetone-based nail polish remover.
4. Gently Rub the Stains:
   • Gently rub the yellow stains on your shoes with a damp cloth or cotton ball. The acetone will help break down the colors.
5. Scrub Gently:
   • For more stubborn stains, use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the affected areas gently.
6. Rinse with Clean Water:
   • After removing the stains, rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any remaining nail polish remover and loosened dirt.
7. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight during this process, as it can cause further yellowing or damage.
8. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If the stains persist, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Using nail polish remover can be effective for leather or vinyl shoes, as it helps dissolve and remove the yellow stains. However, please exercise caution when using this method and ensure it is compatible with your shoe material to avoid damage.

Method 6: Using Castile Liquid Soap

Castile liquid soap is a gentle and eco-friendly method to remove stains from your shoes, including yellow ones. This method suits various shoe materials, including leather, canvas, fabric, and more. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Castile liquid soap
•  Warm water
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare a Soapy Solution:
   • Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of Castile liquid soap. Mix until it creates a soapy solution.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Soak a soft-bristle brush, an old toothbrush, or a clean cloth in the soapy Castile solution. Wring it out slightly to avoid excessive dripping.
3. Gently Scrub Stains:
   • Use a damp brush, cloth, or sponge to scrub the yellow stains on your shoes gently. Apply moderate pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
4. Focus on Problem Areas:
   • Pay extra attention to the areas with the most significant yellowing. Continue scrubbing until you see the stains start to fade.
5. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with warm water to remove any soap residue and loosened dirt or stains.
6. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, which can lead to yellowing or fading.
7. Repeat if Needed:
   • If the stains persist, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Castile liquid soap is a safe and eco-friendly method for rejuvenating your shoes and removing yellow stains. It’s gentle on different shoe materials and helps restore the cleanliness and freshness of your footwear.

Method 7: Using Lemon Juice

Using lemon juice is a natural and effective method for removing yellow stains from your shoes. Lemon juice’s acidity can help break down and eliminate the stains. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Fresh lemons or bottled lemon juice
•  Warm water
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare the Lemon Solution:
   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice or use bottled lemon juice. Mix it with equal warm water in a bowl to create a diluted lemon solution.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Soak a soft-bristle brush, an old toothbrush, or a clean cloth in the diluted lemon solution. Wring it out slightly to avoid excessive dripping.
3. Gently Scrub Stains:
   • Use a damp brush, cloth, or sponge to scrub the yellow stains on your shoes gently. Apply moderate pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
4. Focus on Problem Areas:
   • Pay extra attention to the areas with the most significant yellowing. Continue scrubbing until you see the stains start to fade.
5. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with warm water to remove any lemon juice residue and loosened dirt or stains.
6. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as sunlight can lead to yellowing or fading.
7. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If the stains are still visible after the first attempt, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Using lemon juice is a natural and safe method for removing yellow stains from various shoe materials. It effectively removes stains and leaves your shoes with a refreshing citrus scent.

Method 8: Using Toothpaste

Using toothpaste is a simple and cost-effective method for removing yellow stains from your shoes, especially on white or light-colored footwear. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Non-gel, white toothpaste (containing baking soda is ideal)
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge
•  Water

Steps:

1. Select the Right Toothpaste:
   • Choose a non-gel white toothpaste for this method. Toothpaste that contains baking soda can be particularly effective.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Soak a soft-bristle brush, an old toothbrush, or a clean cloth in water. Wring it out slightly to avoid excessive dripping.
3. Apply Toothpaste:
   • Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto the brush, toothbrush, or cloth. Make sure to use enough to cover the yellow stains on your shoes.
4. Gently Scrub Stains:
   • Use a damp brush, toothbrush, or cloth to scrub the yellow stains in a circular motion gently. Apply moderate pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
5. Focus on Problem Areas:
   • Pay extra attention to the areas with the most significant yellowing. Continue scrubbing until you see the stains start to fade.
6. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with clean water to remove toothpaste residue and loosened dirt or stains.
7. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight during this process, as it can cause further yellowing or fading.
8. Repeat if Needed:
   • If the stains persist, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Using toothpaste, especially one with baking soda, is a straightforward and effective method for removing yellow stains from your shoes. It’s a handy household solution that can help restore your footwear’s clean and fresh look, particularly on white or light-colored shoes.

Method 9: Using A Borax And Warm Water

Using a Borax and warm water solution is an effective method for removing yellow stains from shoes. Borax is a natural cleaner and can help break down and eliminate stains. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Borax powder
•  Warm water
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare the Borax Solution:
   • Mix a few tablespoons of Borax powder with warm water to create a solution. The water should be warm but not boiling to avoid damaging your shoes.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Soak a soft-bristle brush, an old toothbrush, or a clean cloth in the Borax solution. Wring it out slightly to avoid excessive dripping.
3. Gently Scrub Stains:
   • Use a damp brush, cloth, or sponge to scrub the yellow stains on your shoes gently. Apply moderate pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
4. Focus on Problem Areas:
   • Pay extra attention to the areas with the most significant yellowing. Continue scrubbing until you see the stains start to fade.
5. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with warm water to remove any Borax residue and loosened dirt or stains.
6. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as sunlight can lead to yellowing or fading.
7. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If the stains persist, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Using Borax and warm water is a safe and effective method for rejuvenating your shoes and removing yellow stains. It’s a natural cleaner that can help restore the cleanliness and freshness of your footwear.

Method 10: Using Dish Soap

Dish soap is a simple and effective method for removing yellow stains from your shoes. Dish soap is a powerful degreaser that can help break down stains and dirt. Here’s how to do it:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Mild dish soap (liquid, preferably clear)
•  Warm water
•  A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
•  A bowl
•  Clean cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Prepare the Soapy Solution:
   • Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl to create a soapy solution. Use clear or mild dish soap to avoid color transfer to your shoes.
2. Dampen the Brush or Sponge:
   • Soak a soft-bristle brush, an old toothbrush, or a clean cloth in the soapy solution. Wring it out slightly to avoid excessive dripping.
3. Gently Scrub Stains:
   • Use a damp brush, cloth, or sponge to scrub the yellow stains on your shoes gently. Apply moderate pressure, but be careful not to damage the shoe’s material.
4. Focus on Problem Areas:
   • Pay extra attention to the areas with the most significant yellowing. Continue scrubbing until you see the stains start to fade.
5. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with warm water to remove any soapy residue and loosened dirt or stains.
6. Air Dry:
   • Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as sunlight can lead to yellowing or fading.
7. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If the stains persist, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Dish soap is an accessible and effective method for removing yellow stains from your shoes. It’s a household solution that can help restore the cleanliness and freshness of your footwear without the need for harsh chemicals.

Method 11: Using A Washing Machine (Best For Canvas Or Mesh Shoes)

A washing machine is convenient and practical for cleaning canvas or mesh shoes. However, it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging your shoes. Here’s how to clean your canvas or mesh shoes using a washing machine:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Canvas or mesh shoes
•  Mild laundry detergent
•  A soft cloth or brush
•  Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
•  Cold water

Steps:

1. Preparation:
   • Remove the laces and insoles from your shoes. You can wash the laces separately by placing them inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
2. Pre-Treatment:
   • If your shoes have noticeable stains, you can pre-treat them by gently scrubbing the stained areas with a soft cloth or brush and a mixture of mild laundry detergent and cold water. Allow the pre-treatment to sit for a few minutes.
3. Load the Washing Machine:
   • Place your shoes and the laces in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This protects the shoes and prevents them from getting tangled with other laundry items.
4. Add Laundry Detergent:
   • Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent to the washing machine. Make sure it’s appropriate for cold water washing.
5. Set the Machine:
   • Select a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid hot water or harsh settings, as they can damage your shoes.
6. Wash:
   • Start the washing machine. Allow it to complete the cycle. Be present to stop the device before it enters the spin cycle.
7. Rinse:
   • After the wash cycle is completed, manually rinse your shoes under cold running water to ensure that all detergent is removed.
8. Drying:
   • Please do not use a dryer for your shoes, as it can cause damage. Instead, stuff your shoes with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to help them retain their shape. Allow them to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause fading or yellowing.
9. Reassemble:
   • Once your shoes are completely dry, reinsert the insoles and replace them.
10. Additional Cleaning:
    • If any stains or spots remain, gently scrub them with a soft brush or cloth and a mixture of mild laundry detergent and water. Rinse and air dry again.

A washing machine efficiently cleans canvas or mesh shoes, but following these steps is crucial to prevent damage. Proper care and cleaning can help maintain the appearance and longevity of your footwear.

After successfully removing the stains from the shoes, there may be creases on the shoes, if you want to remove the creases from the shoes, then you can check this article.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, keeping your shoes free from yellow stains enhances their appearance and prolongs their lifespan. Whether your boots are made of canvas, leather, or any other material, various methods exist to restore their original luster. There’s a solution for every shoe type, From simple household solutions like toothpaste or dish soap to specialized techniques such as the Borax and warm water method.

While each method has its advantages, it’s important to remember that patience and care are critical. Gentle scrubbing and rinsing are essential in preventing damage to your beloved footwear.

Following the proper cleaning techniques and choosing the method that suits your shoe type, you can bid farewell to those stubborn yellow stains and stride confidently in your refreshed and stylish shoes.

So, don’t let yellow stains dim the beauty of your footwear. Take the time to care for your shoes; they’ll continue to serve you well, keeping you in step with the latest fashion trends and ensuring you always put your best foot forward.

FAQ’s