How To Clean Shoelaces - Our Expert Guide | Cleanipedia UK

Maybe your like

Cleanipedia UK logo

Bathroom Cleaning
Clothing Care
Family
Floor and Surface Cleaning
In the Home
Kitchen Cleaning
Laundry
Out of Home
Sustainability
Hygiene

Getting the details right is key to nailing a look, and a pair of lace-up shoes are only as good as their laces. Got something on your shoelaces, making them look less pristine? Worry not – we've got the tricks for getting them back into shape, whether they're white or dyed! Read on for our handy guide on how to wash shoelaces of all different types as well as how to keep them looking fresh long-term.

Adapt your cleaning method depending on the material and colour used. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to how to wash shoelaces.

You will need:

Washing machine
Bucket
Bleach
Cold water
Laundry detergent

Welcome to #CleanTok

The home of cleaning on TikTok. Brought to you by Cleanipedia.

Explore Cleanipedia

Proud Supporter of #CleanTok

How to clean white shoelaces How to clean laces that are dyed How to clean shoelaces made from leather

How to clean white shoelaces

If you’re wondering how to clean white laces, just follow these simple steps.
1. 1
  Remove the laces
  
  Remove the laces from the shoes.
2. 2
  Place laces in a bucket of bleach and cold water
  
  Clean white shoelaces with bleach – this will help remove nasty stains. Simply place them in a bucket of water with 25ml of bleach and two litres of cold water.
3. 3
  Soak for five minutes then remove
  
  Soak for around five minutes, then remove from the bucket and place in a mesh laundry bag.
4. 4
  Put in washing machine and wash between 40 and 60 degrees
  
  Put the laundry bag in the washing machine and do a hot wash with some good quality laundry detergent, such as Persil Non-Bio.
How to clean laces that are dyed

Got coloured laces? Here’s how to adapt the technique.
1. 1
  Follow the above steps, pre-soak in liquid detergent
  
  Follow the steps as above, but rather than pre-soaking in bleach, use a liquid detergent like Persil Colour.
2. 2
  Wash at a hot temperature
  
  Put the laundry bag in the washing machine and do a hot wash.
3. 3
  Leave to dry naturally
  
  Leave to dry naturally, away from direct sunlight (which can cause colours to fade).
How to clean shoelaces made from leather

What about how to clean laces made of classy leather? Here’s how to get them as good as new.
1. 1
  Don't use a washing machine
  
  This could cause the laces to break.
2. 2
  Use a damp cloth and warm water to remove any stains
  
  Use a damp cloth dipped in warm water and run it along the lace to remove any stains. You might need a bit of elbow grease to get rid of anything stubborn.
  It’s important to clean shoelaces made from leather without soaking or using the washing machine, as both techniques are too harsh on this more fragile material.
3. 3
  Dry naturally and indoors
  
  Always dry leather laces naturally and indoors – blow-drying or direct sunlight could weaken them and lead to breakage.

Take Our Cleaning Personality Test

Unlock hidden insights about yourself and gain a deeper understanding of your cleaning personality.

How to get laces white again without using bleach?

If you prefer using bleach alternatives, you can learn how to clean white laces with baking soda. Besides, studies have shown that bicarbonate of soda has whitening properties. To use it for your shoelaces, follow the steps below:

1
Create a bicarbonate of soda paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and vinegar.
2
Once you’ve formed a paste, use a toothbrush to spread the paste over your shoelaces.
3
Let the paste sit on the shoelaces for about an hour.
4
Once again, take the toothbrush and use it to scrub the paste over the shoelaces. If the paste gets too dry, you can sprinkle water on it.
5
After the dirt and stain have been lifted, rinse the shoelaces under cold, running water.

Quick Tip: You can also get more tips on cleaning with natural products by reading our comprehensive guide on bicarbonate of soda.

How to clean shoelaces: keeping them fresh long-term

If you don’t fancy washing shoelaces every week, here are a few tips on keeping them looking cleaner for longer:

✦
Avoid wearing your shoes anywhere it’s going to get too muddy.
✦
If you have to go somewhere your shoes could get stained, wear those with the darkest laces. This will help prevent dirt stains from showing up.
✦
Store shoes away from dust and anything with the potential to create dirt (household pets, renegade children).
✦
Have spare shoelaces that you can use while you’re washing and drying your other pair. This way, you won’t be forced to use your shoelaces while it is still wet.
✦
If you’re tired of washing shoelaces, consider using dyed laces. Dirt and debris won’t be as visible on coloured shoelaces. As such, you can use them for a longer period without washing them

When you’re working out how to clean shoelaces it can be a bit of a puzzle: how should it be different depending on colour and material and how should you clean white shoelaces to keep their brightness? By following these top tips you can be sure your laces always look their best, giving you the confidence that comes from attending to the details of your outfit!

How to clean shoelaces by hand?

Cleaning shoelaces by hand is a simple process. Start by removing the laces from your shoes. Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the shoelaces in the soapy water and agitate them gently to loosen dirt and stains. Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the laces, paying extra attention to any stubborn spots. Rinse the laces thoroughly with clean water to remove any soapy residue. Squeeze out excess water and hang the laces to air dry. Once dry, re-lace your shoes, and they'll be clean and ready to wear.

Read other articles from the Clothing Care category

How to prevent colour bleeding when washing coloured fabrics

What do the symbols on washing machines mean

How to remove static from clothes

How to stop clothes bobbling

How to make clothes smell good and stay fresh

Frequently asked questions about washing shoe laces

How to clean shoelaces by hand?
Cleaning shoelaces by hand is a simple process. Here are the steps: Start by removing the laces from your shoes. Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the shoelaces in the soapy water and agitate them gently to loosen dirt and stains. Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the laces, paying extra attention to any stubborn spots. Rinse the laces thoroughly with clean water to remove any soapy residue. Squeeze out excess water and hang the laces to air dry. Once dry, re-lace your shoes, and they'll be clean and ready to wear.
Is it okay to wash shoelaces in the washing machine?
Yes, you can wash shoelaces in the washing machine. However, remember to prep the laces first. For example, you should use a toothbrush to scrub off any stuck-on debris. Also, place the shoelaces inside a laundry bag before throwing them into your washing machine. Doing so will keep them from getting damaged.
How to clean black shoelaces?
You can clean black shoelaces using the method we shared for washing dyed laces. Instead of pre-soaking the laces in bleach, you should use laundry detergent instead. Also, if you’re planning to wash them in your washing machine, make sure to group them with coloured clothes.
Can you clean shoelaces with soap and water?
Yes, in most cases, you can clean shoelaces with soap and water. This method is effective enough in removing stuck-on debris. However, if you want to whiten your laces, you may need to soak them in bleach.
How long should you soak white shoelaces in bleach?
Usually, it takes about five minutes to see the effects of soaking white shoelaces in bleach.

Was this article helpful?

LikeHelpfulDislikeNot Really