5 proven tricks: How to make your white clogs shine like new again

For anyone working in healthcare, hospitality, beauty salons, or any other profession that requires hours on their feet, white clogs are more than just footwear. They are a symbol of cleanliness, professionalism, and an essential part of the work uniform. However, maintaining their pristine whiteness can be a real challenge. Daily exposure to dust, coffee stains, disinfectants, and other substances quickly leaves visible marks.

Before you think it’s time to buy a new pair, know that there is a solution. With a few simple, tried-and-true tricks and a little regular care, your favorite work clogs can look like they just came out of the box again. Find out how to restore their original whiteness and shine, using ingredients you probably already have at home.

Step 1: Preparation is half the battle – remove surface dirt

Just as you wouldn’t put heavily soiled laundry straight into the washing machine without pre-washing, clogs shouldn’t be cleaned without some basic preparation. This initial step is crucial because it prevents dirt from being rubbed deeper into the material during a more thorough cleaning.

Before applying any bleaching agent, take a soft, damp cloth or sponge and carefully wipe the entire surface of the clogs. This will remove any layer of dust, mud, and other larger dirt. If your clogs are made of genuine or high-quality eco-leather, use a mild soap (such as baby soap) and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals that can damage the protective layer and dry out the material. Only when the clogs are cleaned of surface deposits are they ready for the next step.

Step 2: Baking soda – a powerful ally in your kitchen

Baking soda is a true miracle worker when it comes to cleaning and whitening. Not only is it cheap and readily available, but it’s also extremely effective at removing stubborn stains without damaging the material.

How to use it:

1. Make a paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with a little water. The consistency should be similar to toothpaste.
2. Apply the paste directly to the stains or to the entire surface of the clogs.
3. Using an old, soft toothbrush, gently rub the paste in a circular motion. Pay special attention to the dirtiest areas and creases.
4. Leave the paste on for 15-20 minutes.
5. Afterwards, wipe the clogs thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth.

Additional odor-neutralizing tip: Baking soda is also a great odor neutralizer. After a long shift, sprinkle the inside of your clogs with dry baking soda and let it sit overnight. In the morning, just shake the powder out. This will absorb moisture, prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus, and leave your shoes feeling fresh.

Step 3: Magic Eraser

If you haven’t discovered the “magic sponge” yet, prepare to be surprised. This product, made of melamine foam, acts like ultra-fine sandpaper that literally erases stains from various surfaces, and is especially effective on rubber soles and synthetic materials.

How to use it:

1. Lightly dampen the tip of the magic sponge.
2. Gently rub stains on the sole and other parts of the clogs.
3. You will see the dirt disappear before your eyes. Be gentle on the leather parts so as not to damage the finish.
4. After use, wipe the clogs with a damp cloth to remove residue.

Step 4: Toothpaste – more than just smile hygiene

White toothpaste (avoid gels and colored toothpastes) can be surprisingly effective for cleaning white clogs, especially the rubber parts and soles. The whitening ingredients found in the toothpaste are great for removing yellow marks and stains.

How to use it:

1. Apply a small amount of white toothpaste to an old toothbrush.
2. Gently rub the soiled areas, focusing on the sole.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe off any remaining paste thoroughly with a damp cloth.

Important note: Be careful when using toothpaste on genuine or faux leather, as some abrasive ingredients can dry out the material. It’s best to test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Step 5: Professional shoe care products

If you prefer quick and targeted solutions, there is a wide range of specialized products on the market for cleaning and maintaining white shoes. These can be foams, creams, sprays, or liquids with a sponge applicator.

These products are formulated not only to restore whiteness, but also to nourish the material and create a protective layer that repels water and dirt. Regular use of such products, for example once a week, can significantly extend the life of your clogs and make daily maintenance easier.

Proper drying and storage – the key to longevity

After any cleaning treatment, how you dry and store your clogs is equally important.

• Never dry them in direct sunlight or on a radiator. Intense heat can dry out, deform and cause materials, especially leather, to crack.
• Dry them naturally, at room temperature, in a well-ventilated room or in the shade. You can fill the inside with crumpled paper (avoid newspaper as the ink may leave a mark) to absorb excess moisture and maintain their shape.
• Store them properly. Once they are completely dry, store them in their original box or cloth bag, separate from other shoes to prevent deformation and soiling.

Regular maintenance is the best prevention. Wipe your clogs with a damp cloth every evening after work. Use a protective spray occasionally. With these simple habits, your white clogs will always look neat and professional, giving you comfort and confidence during a hard day at work.