How to Remove Black Scuff Marks From White Shoes

Clean white shoes often to help them look better longer.

A well-used pair of shoes will eventually get black scuff marks on it. If your shoes are white, you may begin to notice these marks sooner and they may damage the pristine appearance of your shoes sooner. Save money by using common household tools and ingredients rather than expensive commercial cleaners. Using these products will also help keep potentially harsh chemicals out of your home.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil eraser
• Cotton swab
• Nail polish remover with acetone
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Cloth

Instructions

1. Rub a pencil eraser over the stain. This will generally lighten tough black scuff marks or completely remove light black scuff marks.

2. Dip a cotton swab in nail polish remover if the black marks are still visible.

3. Rub the nail polish remover on the black scruff marks. Reapply acetone as needed and use new cotton swabs until you've removed as much of the black marks as possible.

4. Apply toothpaste to an old toothbrush if the black marks are still visible.

5. Rub the toothpaste into the white shoe until you've removed the rest of the black marks. Toothpaste will act as a very mild abrasive that will not scratch the shoe but will help loosen the mark.

6. Rub a clean cloth soaked in water over the area to rinse off the cleaning solutions.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use this process to remove scuff marks from shoes that are sensitive to water such as suede or silk shoes.

References

• Mrs. Clean: Remove Heel Marks
• Mom's Budget: Remove Scuff Marks from White Shoes