Linda C. Cobb, also known as the" Queen of Clean," shares tips and tricks for cleaning and freshening shoes.
To remove bad smells from sneakers: Pour baking soda in each shoe, place the shoe in its own freezer bag, seal the bag, then pop the shoes in the freezer for 24 hours. The shoes will thaw quickly. This is an effective method because the baking soda removes the odor while the freezing stops the bacterial growth.
To clean dirty toes on canvas shoes: Pour a small amount of automatic liquid dishwashing detergent in a bowl, then dip a toothbrush into the liquid and scrub into the toe of the shoe. Let the detergent soak in for a while. The shoes can then be either cleaned by hand or thrown into a washing machine with some towels (which act as gentle abrasives). Launder as usual and dry in the sun. No more brown lines!
To keep canvas shoes clean longer: When the shoe is clean and dry, apply spray starch on the entire surface. This will keep it cleaner longer and allow for easier cleaning the next time around.
For heavy soiling on white leather shoes (dress or athletic): For lighter stains, try rubbing with a non-gel toothpaste. For heavier stains, use either rubbing alcohol or nail-polish remover. Apply with a cotton swab, then rinse. White-wall tire cleaner also works great, but take greater care when using this. It can only be used on leather. Just spray on and let stand for 20 minutes, then launder shoes with light-colored towels.
To clean patent leather shoes: For a simple buffing, use a baby wipe to really bring out the shine and condition the shoe as well. If baby wipes aren't handy, take a dab of petroleum jelly and buff the shoe well with a soft cotton towel.
Resources Talking Dirty with the Queen of Clean
by Linda C. Cobb
Pocket Books, 2000
Order this title from Amazon.com.
Guests Linda C. Cobb
Cleaning Expert / "Queen of Clean"
Website:
www.queenofclean.com
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