Say Goodbye to Shoe Polish Stains - Cleaning Tips for Your Shirt
Life happens and when it does, your favorite shirt may get a shoe polish stain. Don't worry, there's hope with a few simple steps. Here's how to tackle pesky shoe polish marks.
Updated 24 Jun 2023
By Isabelle Trottier
Shoe polish stains can be difficult to remove, but it’s definitely not impossible. With the right supplies and technique, you can get back to business as usual in no time.
What You’ll Need
- Rubbing alcohol
- Dish soap
- White vinegar
- Borax or baking soda
- Clean white cloth
Instructions
- Take the shirt off, and lay it flat on an absorbent surface. Place an old towel beneath it.
- Pour a few drops of rubbing alcohol onto the dried shoe polish stain. Use a clean white cloth to scrub away shoe polish stain.
- If the stain is still visible, pour a few drops of dish soap into a bowl with cold water. Sponge solution onto the remaining stain.
- If stain is still present, add one teaspoon of white vinegar to one cup of cold water and mix together. Sponge the stained area and allow it to sit for one minute.
- Finally, sprinkle some baking soda or Borax onto the stained area. Allow the area to dry. Brush the baking soda or Borax off the shirt when it’s completely dry.
Tips
- Start with the gentlest cleaning method first, and work your way up to the strongest if needed.
- Test any liquid cleaner on an inconspicuous area before using it on the actual stain.
- Always use cold water - never hot or warm.