Varnish stains can make your New Balance shoes look unsightly, but with right knowledge and supplies you can get rid of them in no time! Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning up those pesky varnish spots.
Updated 22 Jun 2023
By Nishat Asif
Before you start tackling those varnish spots, it's important to prepare your work space. Lay down some old newspaper or an old cloth that you don't mind getting stained. Make sure the space is well ventilated before you begin.
First, you'll need some white vinegar and some cotton pads. You may also need a pair of tweezers or a small brush in order to remove any dried varnish from the surface of your shoe.
Soak one of the cotton pads in white vinegar, then apply it directly to the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes. This should help to loosen varnish so that it can be more easily removed.
Using the same soaked cotton pad, give the stain a good scrub. You can also go in with the tweezers or brush if there are any dried bits of varnish stuck to the surface. Make sure to keep applying more vinegar as needed.
Once the stain is gone, use a damp cloth and some mild soap to wipe away any residual vinegar and varnish. Rinse and repeat until the shoe is clean.
Finally, let the shoes air dry completely before you put them back on. This should ensure that all of the vinegar has evaporated away and that your shoes will be good as new!
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