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How to Clean Shoe Polish Stains From Dresses Quickly and Easily

Accidently getting shoe polish on your dress can be a huge disaster. Despite the difficulty that may come with removing shoe polish stains, it is possible to get rid of them without causing any damage to your dress. With right cleaning products and techniques, you can restore your garment back to its original beauty. Here’s how to do it.

Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Blaž Stančič

What You'll Need

A small bowl
Water
Liquid dishwashing detergent
White vinegar
Baking soda
A sponge
A toothbrush
Clean cloths

Step 1: Pre-treat Stain

Mix one part detergent and one part white vinegar in bowl. Soak a sponge in this solution and gently apply it on stained area. Cover the entire affected area, or else the remaining shoe polish will stay there and spread further. Let it sit for five minutes.

Step 2: Scrub off the Stain

After five minutes, take the damp sponge and start scrubbing over the area. Use a toothbrush to scrub off the excess shoe polish if necessary. Be careful not to rub too hard, as it can ruin the fabric. Repeat this process until the stain has been completely removed.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

Once you have removed the stain, rinse affected area with lukewarm water. Make sure you rinse it thoroughly, ensuring no detergent residue is left behind. Then, use a dry cloth to dry the stained area. Alternatively, you can hang up the dress and let it air dry.

Step 4: Baking Soda Treatment for Stubborn Stains

If the stain still remains after following the instructions above, try a baking soda treatment. Take two tablespoons of baking soda and mix it with a few drops of water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste directly on the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes. Once the paste has dried, use the damp sponge to scrub off the stain. Rinse the dress with warm water and dry with a cloth.

Can I Use Other Products to Remove Shoe Polish from Dresses?

Yes, you can also use bleach or rubbing alcohol to remove shoe polish from garments. However, these are strong chemicals that can damage the fabric of your dress if used incorrectly. It's always best to use a gentle cleaning solution, such as detergent and vinegar, for the most effective and safest results.

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