Removing shoe polish stains from sandals can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. With right supplies and some elbow grease, you can get rid of those stubborn spots and have your sandals looking clean and new again.
Updated 23 Jun 2023
By Peter Blackwood
If there’s any dried-on shoe polish on your sandal straps, use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a small dull knife to scrape off as much as you can. Make sure to do this gently so you don’t damage fabric.
Once you’ve removed the excess shoe polish, grab a bar of soap and rub it directly into the stain. The soap will help to loosen the shoe polish and make it easier to remove. Rub the soap in for a few minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.
For really stubborn shoe polish stains, you may need to use a commercial stain remover. Choose one that is specifically designed for fabrics—you can find these at most stores that sell laundry supplies. Apply a small amount of stain remover to affected areas, then let it sit for 15 minutes. Afterward, rinse it off completely with warm water.
Once the shoe polish stains are gone, it’s time to wash and dry your sandals. Place them in the washing machine with a mild detergent and set it to the gentle cycle. Once they’re done, hang them up to air dry. Do not put them in the dryer, as this can cause the fabric to shrink.
Removing shoe polish stains from sandals doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With the right supplies and a bit of effort, you can get rid of those pesky spots and have your sandals looking like new again.
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