Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Black Shoes Like a Pro

July 30, 2025

Black shoes are a non-negotiable staple in every well-dressed wardrobe — from sleek leather Oxfords to everyday black sneakers. Their versatility is rooted in the neutral nature of black as a colour, which makes it compatible with a lot of colour options in your wardrobe. 

But even the most timeless pair can lose its charm if not maintained with care. Whether you're prepping for a boardroom meeting or dressing up for a formal evening, spotless black shoes can elevate your entire ensemble. However, it is their versatility that also makes them prone to more spotting, dust and other things that make them look dirty very easily. Every stain and splash look many times worse on an otherwise regular coloured shoe. 

Don’t fret – you're not stuck in this predicament alone. This is a common problem which is why we’ve crafted a guide to help you clean your black shoes. Let’s explore how to clean black shoes — properly, thoroughly, and stylishly. 

Effective Ways to Clean Black Shoes 

Cleaning black shoes isn’t just about wiping away dust — it’s about restoring their natural shine, removing deep-set grime, and preserving their finish. There are many approaches you can take depending on your footwear. This is because it is not just the colour but the material that determines what’s the best way to clean a black shoe. 

Clean Black Shoes with Mild Soap & Water 

For casual wear shoes or sneakers, this classic approach works wonders. It is also super easy to implement which means you can use it easily without needing a lot of prep work: 

1. Remove the laces so you can access the tongue and eyelets with ease. 

2. Mix a few drops of mild soap (not detergent) with warm water. 

3. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the exterior. Be careful not to soak the shoe — damp, not dripping, is the goal if you want to maximise your shoe’s lifespan as well as wear it anytime soon. 

4. For soles, use a soft-bristled brush in circular motions. This should dislodge most of the dirt that the shoe might have picked up. 

5. Wipe off soap residue with a clean, damp cloth. Don’t repeat the motion in one spot, this puts the dirt back where the cloth picked it up from. 

6. Let them air dry naturally. Never use direct heat as that has a direct negative effect on the shoe health. 

Ideal for: canvas shoes, everyday sneakers, synthetic styles, and rubber soles. 

Clean Black Shoes with Shoe Polish or Conditioner 

For your black leather shoes, this is where elegance lives. They require a little bit more TLC than an average sneaker – in terms of effort as well using some specific products and methods. Here’s how you should go about cleaning your black shoes with some specific products: 

1. Dust the shoes using a horsehair brush to remove surface particles. This is essential to keep it scratch free in the overall cleaning process. 

2. Apply a small amount of black shoe polish or leather conditioner in circular motions using a soft cloth. 

3. Let the product absorb for 10–15 minutes. This is important for the qualities of the cream to transfer to the shoe. 

4. Buff with a clean brush or cloth until you get a smooth, even shine. 

5. Use an old toothbrush to clean around the sole edges for a polished finish. 

This method not only revives colour and shine but also nourishes the leather, preventing cracks over time. 

Ideal for: leather shoes, black formal shoes, and luxury dress footwear. 

Cleaning Black Shoes with Toothpaste (For Soles & Scuffs) 

When you're in a rush or dealing with stubborn marks, you might be looking for something easily available yet effective: 

1. Use non-gel white toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. 

2. Apply a small amount on scuffed or stained areas (especially the soles). 

3. Scrub gently and wipe off with a damp cloth. 

This works particularly well on black sneakers and midsole marks — just remember not to use coloured or gel toothpaste on fabric or suede. That might cause proper damage that is hard to undo. 

How to Clean Black Shoe Laces Without Fading? 

Often ignored, shoelaces can be the silent culprit making your shoes look older than they are. It’s like having a brand-new car with rusted wheels. Here’s how to bring your old or dirty shoelaces back to life: 

1. Remove the laces and soak them in a bowl of warm water mixed with mild detergent. 

2. Gently scrub with your hands or an old brush. 

3. Rinse and air dry them flat. 

If the laces are too worn or faded, consider replacing them with fresh ones — it makes a world of difference. In fact, with changed shoelaces you can even change the look of your shoe. 

Pro Tips for Different Materials 

• Suede Black Shoes: Use a suede brush (not water) to lift dirt and restore texture. A suede eraser can work on deeper marks. Never apply polish. Suede is a special material that needs special treatment. Without that, even the best intentions might cause more damage to the material. 

• Patent Leather: Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to restore gloss. Always remember, damp not drenched. 

• Mesh Black Sneakers: Hand wash with care. Machine washing can distort the shape and weaken adhesives. It can also cause the threads to come off.  

How to Store Cleaned Black Shoes 

Once they’re sparkling clean, don’t just toss them into a cupboard. To maintain the goodness of the new clean look, there’s additional steps involved that can make your efforts last longer. 

• Use shoe trees to maintain the shape of your favourite black shoes. 

• Store them in a dust bag or box to keep atmospheric dust from settling on them. 

• Avoid damp, humid spaces for storage, as that causes mold and other unwanted buildups. 

• Stuff tissue inside if you don’t have shoe trees — bonus points for using cedar inserts to absorb moisture and add fragrance. 

Keep a Cleaning Kit Handy 

You can’t always be doing a deep dive into the various ways to keep your black shoes clean. For fuss-free maintenance at short notice, curate a small kit that includes: 

• Horsehair brush 

• Microfiber cloth 

• Black shoe polish 

• Mild soap 

• Leather conditioner 

• Toothbrush 

• Suede brush (if applicable) 

It’ll save you time and keep your collection consistently stylish. This, combined with the knowledge from this guide will give you the arsenal you need to keep any of your favourite black shoes clean at any point of time. 

Conclusion 

Knowing how to clean black shoes isn’t just a hygiene tip — it’s a style essential. It’s about showing the world that you pay attention to the little things. Whether it’s your black shoes for women styled with trousers or classic black shoes for men with a sharp suit, regular cleaning ensures your footwear lives up to its timeless reputation. From black sneakers to formal leather pairs, a little care goes a long way. 

So go ahead, restore that mirror shine — your shoes (and your outfit) deserve nothing less.