Say Goodbye to Shoe Polish Stains With These Simple Cleaning Tips
Accidental shoe polish stains on your tops can be an unsightly mess. But don’t worry! With some simple supplies and a few easy steps, you can remove shoe polish stains from any fabric, leaving them looking fresh again.
Updated 24 Jun 2023
By Blaž Stančič
What You'll Need
- Sink or large bowl
- Mild detergent
- White vinegar
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Cotton swabs
- Baking soda
- Soft cloth
Removing Shoe Polish Stains from Tops
- Start by scraping off any excess shoe polish with a blunt knife or spoon. Don’t press too hard or you may spread the stain.
- Fill the sink or bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent. Soak the affected area in the solution for 20-30 minutes.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, and use a cotton swab to apply it directly to stained area. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Remove the fabric from the sink and rinse with lukewarm water.
- If stain persists, sprinkle the area with baking soda and let it sit for 10 minutes. The baking soda will help draw out any remaining discoloration.
- Gently remove baking soda with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. If necessary, repeat the previous steps until the stain is gone.
- Hang the fabric in a warm, well-ventilated area to dry.
Preventing Future Stains
To avoid future shoe polish stains on your tops, make sure polish is completely dry before wearing. Wait at least 30 minutes after applying the polish, and consider using a waterproofing spray to make cleaning easier.
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