Cleaning shoelaces can refresh sneakers and extend their life. Baking soda is a versatile, inexpensive option that helps lift stains and neutralize odors. This guide walks through a practical, step-by-step method using common household items and a selection of targeted brushes and cloths to get laces looking clean and fresh again.
Quick Answer
Quick method: remove laces, soak in warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda and a dash of mild detergent for 15–30 minutes, scrub with a soft brush, rinse, and air dry. For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water and gently rub the fabric—then rinse thoroughly.
What You’ll Need
- Soft bristle shoe cleaning brush nylon bristles for shoelaces
- Toothbrush style fabric stain cleaning brush for shoelaces
- Microfiber cleaning cloth for shoelaces and sneakers
- Detail brush set for fabric and suede cleaning shoelaces
- Small head shoe lace cleaning brush nylon bristle
Before You Start
Prepare a clean workspace and gather your tools. Remove aglets if possible to prevent fraying during scrubbing. Jumping straight into a tough stain can set it deeper, so pre-soaking is recommended for most fabrics. Be mindful of delicate laces or logos that could fade with vigorous scrubbing. Allow enough time for the laces to dry completely to prevent mildew.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Shoelaces With Baking Soda
- Untie and remove the laces from your shoes. Separate any that are heavily soiled from those that are lightly stained.
- Rinse under cool running water to remove surface dirt and dust.
- Fill a bowl with warm water and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and a small amount of mild detergent; stir to dissolve.
- Place laces in the solution and let them soak for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even coverage.
- Gently scrub with a soft bristle shoe cleaning brush nylon bristles for shoelaces or a toothbrush style fabric stain cleaning brush for shoelaces, focusing on stained areas.
- Rinse laces under cool running water until suds are gone. For persistent stains, make a baking soda paste and apply, then rinse again.
- Pat dry with a microfiber cleaning cloth for shoelaces and sneakers and squeeze gently to remove excess water.
- Air dry laces completely, preferably laying flat or hanging to avoid twisting. Replace laces in shoes once fully dry.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains persist after washing | Deep-set dye or oil-based stains | Apply baking soda paste and re-scrub with a brush, then rinse | Pre-treat stains as soon as possible |
| Faded color on laces | Excessive detergent or long soak | Shorten soak time, use milder solution | Test on a hidden area first |
| Frayed ends after washing | Rough scrubbing or aggressive handling | Use gentler brush and squeeze rather than wring | Limit scrubbing pressure |
| Laces still damp after air drying | High humidity or tight knots | Wring gently and lay flat in a warm, dry area | Ensure complete drying before re-use |
Common Mistakes
- Using hot water that can set stains or warp laces
- Over-saturating fabric with detergent, leaving residue
- Scrubbing too hard and fraying the lace fibers
- Skipping a full rinse, which can leave a residue or odor
Tips For Best Results
- Always test a small, inconspicuous area first if laces have printed patterns
- Use a dedicated brush for delicate fabrics to avoid damage
- Pair cleaning with regular maintenance—clean laces every few weeks to keep sneakers fresh
- For very long laces, wash in two batches to ensure thorough cleaning
Call A Professional
Consider a professional cleaner if laces have metal tips that corrode or if laces are part of high-value or delicate footwear. Seek expert help when there is extensive color bleeding, damage to the fabric, or if the laces are integral to sports footwear where performance is critical.
FAQ
Can baking soda damage shoelaces?
When used in moderation and properly rinsed, baking soda is gentle on most fabrics and helps remove odors and stains.
Can I reuse the same water for soaking multiple pairs?
Yes, as long as the solution remains clean and free of heavy debris; refresh if it becomes cloudy.
Is heat drying safe for laces?
Avoid high heat; air drying is safest to prevent shrinkage or deformation.
How long should laces dry before re-lacing?
Allow at least several hours of air drying in a well-ventilated area.
Buying Guide
When selecting cleaning tools for shoelaces, consider factors like material compatibility, bristle stiffness, and surface area covered by each brush. For odiferous or stubborn stains, a combination of soft brushes and microfiber cloths often provides the best results. Look for tools designed for fabric and lace care to minimize fraying and preserve color.
Key buying factors include size and type of laces, noise level of brushes during use, energy efficiency of any powered cleaning options, control over brushing pressure, and placement options if you want a dedicated cleaning station. Compare sets that include both brushes and microfiber cloths for a complete kit and consider a compact, travel-friendly option for on-the-go touch-ups.