How To Clean White Golf Shoes: Canvas, Leather And Mesh

Learn how to clean white golf shoes effectively by exploring step-by-step instructions to hand wash and machine wash different types of white golf shoes.

White golf shoes are a classic and stylish choice for any golfer, exuding an air of elegance and sophistication on the green. 

However, maintaining the classic look of these shoes can be a challenge, especially after a few rounds of golf in various weather conditions. Mud, grass stains, and dirt can easily spoil their appearance, but fear not! 

With the right approach, you can keep your white shoes looking as good as new. Let us take you through the steps to clean white golf shoes effectively, ensuring they remain in top-notch condition and ready for your next game.

I. Things to keep handy before you start cleaning white golf shoes

Prepare the essential items before cleaning your white golf shoes to achieve effective results. Refer to the table below for the required materials, their purposes, and additional notes to guide you through the process.

Items required	Purpose	Note
Water	To create a cleaning solution and rinse	Use lukewarm water
Soft-bristled brush	Removes dirt and debris	Avoid hard-bristled brushes, as they can damage the material
Mild dish soap	Makes a gentle cleaning solution	Avoid using harsh chemicals that may harm the shoes
White vinegar	Removes stains and dirt	Mix with water in a 1:1 ratio and avoid over-using.
Old toothbrush	To scrub away dirt and stains	Use soft bristles to clean without damaging the shoes
Microfiber towel	To pat dry shoes after cleaning	Other materials can cause scratches

II. How to clean white golf shoes: Hand washing

Golf shoes can add to the expenses of your golf budget, making it crucial to keep them in excellent condition. To help you maintain their appearance and freshness on the golf course, here are a few simple steps for hand washing your white golf shoes.

Step 1: Gently remove the dirt

Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush off loose dirt, grass, or debris from your shoes. Be careful not to scrub too hard to avoid damaging the material.

Step 2: Make a cleaning solution

Mix warm water with gentle laundry detergent in a bowl or bucket. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach to prevent discoloration.

Step 3: Soak up shoes

Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently rub it over the shoes’ surface, including soles and seams. Let them soak for a few minutes, ideally 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Scrub 

Use the soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the shoes, targeting stubborn stains or dirty areas.

Step 5: Rinse and clean 

Thoroughly rinse the shoes with clean water, using a hose or showerhead if needed, to remove all soap and solution.

Step 6: Pat dry

Pat the shoes dry with a clean towel to remove excess water. Avoid using heat sources, as they could damage the shoes.

III. Cleaning different types of white golf shoes

If you observe golfers, you will notice many of them wearing white shoes on the course or driving range. Although white is a common factor, the models, materials, and designs of the shoes vary. 

Depending on the type of white golf shoe you have, you may need to clean them differently. Thus, here is a step-by-step process of cleaning and caring for these various white golf shoe materials.

1. White leather golf shoes

Leather golf shoes require gentle yet effective cleaning to maintain their look.

• Start by using a soft cloth to wipe away dirt and debris.
• Then, gently scrub any stains with a leather cleaner specifically designed for white leather.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the leather.
• Wipe the shoes with a damp cloth and allow them to air dry completely before wearing them again.

2. White canvas golf shoes

White canvas golf shoes are lightweight and stylish, perfect for a day on the course. Cleaning them is easy and requires minimal effort.

• Mix warm water with gentle laundry detergent to create a cleaning solution.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to remove excess dirt and debris.
• Soak a soft cloth or sponge in the mixture and gently rub it onto the shoes, covering all areas, including the soles.
• Rinse off the soap with clean water and pat the shoes dry with a soft towel, avoiding the use of heat sources that may damage the material.

3. White mesh golf shoes

A lot of golfers prefer mesh golf shoes, especially in hot weather. These shoes also require gentle yet effective cleaning to maintain their elegant white look.

• To clean your white mesh golf shoes, mix warm water with mild laundry detergent to create a cleaning solution.
• Now, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
• Soak a soft cloth or sponge in the mixture and gently rub it onto the shoes, ensuring all areas are cleaned.
• Let the shoes soak briefly before rinsing them with clean water.
• Pat the shoes dry with a soft towel and let them air dry completely, avoiding heat sources that may harm the material.

4. White suede golf shoes

White suede golf shoes offer style and flair on the golf course but require regular and careful cleaning.

• Begin by wiping down the shoes with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
• Use a suede cleaner specifically designed for white leather to gently scrub away stains or discoloration.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach as they can damage the material.
• Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again.
• For added protection against future dirt and stains, consider using a waterproofing spray or protective coating.

5. Cleaning Men’s HyperFlex and Women’s emPower

To keep your FootJoy Men’s HyperFlex and Women’s emPower golf shoes in pristine condition, follow these simple cleaning steps. 

• Ensure your shoes are completely dry and remove the shoe laces for easy cleaning.
• Use a dry brush with firm bristles to gently remove dirt from the shoes.
• Wipe off any remaining debris to ensure a thorough cleaning.
• Prepare a cleaning solution by adding a tablespoon of it to a bowl of room temperature water. Use a clean brush with soft bristles, dip it into the solution.
• Gently scrub the shoes until the solution starts to bubble. Wipe off excess solution with a towel.
• Clean the insole by placing it in the bowl of water and cleaning solution. After 10-15 minutes, remove it and allow it to air dry or use a blow dryer for faster results.
• Make sure both your shoes and shoe laces are completely dry before re-lacing and inserting the insole. 

IV. Cleaning white golf shoes in the washing machine

Washing your golf shoes in a washing machine is not a recommended method for cleaning them. 

However, if you are in a bind and need to clean your shoes quickly, this method will do the trick. There are ways to ensure that your golf shoes get machine washed without being ruined.

What You Will Need

• A washing machine, of course!
• Mesh bag
• Mild detergent liquid
• A soft brush or soft cloth 

How To Clean

• Start by removing the shoe laces to avoid the shoes from getting tangled up inside the machine. 
• Next, use a brush or cloth to scrape off all the loose dirt, mud, and grass from the shoes. 
• Pay proper attention to the soles as spikes/cleats. If the cleats are removable, take them off as well.
• Once you have removed all the loose dirt, it is time to place your shoes inside the mesh bag. This will help to protect your shoes from getting damaged during the washing process. If you don’t have a mesh bag, you can use an old pillowcase as an alternative.
• Once your shoes are safely tucked away inside the mesh bag, it is time to add detergent to your washing machine. Use a mild detergent liquid and set the machine to run on a delicate cycle. 
• Once the cycle is completed, take your shoes out of the washing machine and allow them to air dry. Do not put your shoes in the dryer, as this can damage them.
• Once they are completely dry, you can re-lace and re-spike your golf shoes and store them in a cool, dry place.

V. White golf shoes maintenance and care

Maintaining your golf shoes and adding years to your life isn’t just limited to cleaning them regularly. Certain products can help to extend the life of your shoes and keep them looking their best. Here is a list of 5 such products.

1. Shoe Tree

Shoe trees, especially those made from cedar wood, are incredibly beneficial for your shoes. Not only do they effectively absorb moisture and odors, but they also play a crucial role in maintaining the shape of your footwear and preventing unsightly creases. 

2. Shoe Horn

A shoe horn can actually be quite handy, especially when trying to avoid scuffing the back of your shoes. It also helps to prevent the deterioration of the heel counter. 

Make sure you buy yourself one if you are in the habit of slipping your golf shoes on without untying your laces. The shoe horn will considerably reduce the damage you are inflicting on your shoes by doing so.

3. Leather Oil

Golf shoes come in various materials like synthetic leather, suede, nubuck, and more. If you have leather golf shoes, then make sure you treat them with good-quality leather oil every few months. This will help to keep the leather supple and prevent it from drying out and cracking.

4. Leather Softener

Leather softener is another product you can use to maintain your leather golf shoes. It is particularly useful for keeping the leather around the shoelaces from getting hard and cracking. Simply apply a small amount of the leather softener to a clean cloth and rub it into the leather.

5. Shoe Wax

Shoe wax can be used on both leather and synthetic golf shoes. It helps to waterproof your shoes and prevents the leather from drying out. Shoe wax is available in the form of sprays, creams, and even sticks. Simply follow the instructions on the product before applying it to your shoes.

6. Shoe Cleaner Kit

Golf shoes can be easily cleaned with shoe cleaning kits. These kits are easily available online and in golf shoe stores. They come with everything you need to clean your golf shoes, including a brush, swabs, white shoe polish, protectors, and sprays. 

Since these products are particularly manufactured for shoes, they won’t cause any damage to your shoes. However, make sure you pick your cleaning kit according to the material of your shoes.

VI. Tips to improve the durability of your golf shoes

We are not done yet. Here are a few more tips that will help you keep your golf shoes looking their best:

1. Preventing damage is better than repairing the damage. Avoid walking in wet grass or puddles: Wet grass and puddles can cause your shoes to become stained or waterlogged. If you must walk in wet areas, dry your shoes off as soon as possible.
2. Don’t leave your shoes in direct sunlight for extended periods of time, as this can cause the leather to crack.
3. Tempting as it may be, avoid leaving your golf shoes in the trunk of your car, as the extreme temperatures can damage them.
4. If your shoes get wet, stuff them with newspaper and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
5. Using a wooden shoe tree is always a good idea, as it will help absorb moisture and maintain the shape of your shoes while they are drying.
6. Clean golf shoes after every round of golf, even if they don’t seem dirty.
7. Use a shoehorn when putting them on: This will help prevent the backs of your shoes from getting scuffed.
8. Polish leather shoes regularly: Leather shoes require a bit of extra care to keep them looking their best. Be sure to polish them regularly with good-quality leather polish.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning and proper storage of your golf shoes will help them look their best and perform at their highest level. By following the simple steps we’ve outlined, you can keep your golf shoes clean and in good condition for seasons to come. Remember, a little bit of maintenance goes a long way – so be sure to clean your golf shoes regularly and store them safely.

FAQs

Cleaning golf shoes might sound like a mundane job, but a lot of questions and doubts can arise while you are trying to get those shoes spick and span. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cleaning golf shoes:

1. Can I Use A Power Washer To Clean My Golf Shoes?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. You can use a power washer to clean your golf shoes, but you need to be careful about the setting that you use. If you set the power washer on too high of a setting, then you risk damaging the leather or synthetic materials that make up the shoe. You should also avoid using hot water when cleaning golf shoes, as this can also damage the materials.

2. How Often Should I Clean My Golf Shoes?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including how often you play and the type of shoes you have. If you play frequently, then you’ll need to clean your shoes more often than someone who only plays occasionally. Likewise, if you have spike-less shoes, they won’t require as much maintenance as shoes with spikes. In general, it’s a good idea to clean your golf shoes after every round. If you don’t have time to clean your shoes after every round, then try to do it at least once a week.

3. Can I use bleach to clean my golf shoes? 

Many golfers opt to clean their shoes with bleach in order to restore them to their original state. However, using bleach on golf shoes is not always the best idea. For one thing, bleach is a harsh chemical that can damage the delicate fabric of golf shoes. In addition, bleach can cause the color of the shoes to fade or run. As a result, it is important to use bleach sparingly and only in small areas.

4. How Do I Dry White Shoes Without Turning Yellow?

To dry white shoes without turning them yellow, gently pat them with a dry towel, air dry them in a well-ventilated area, and stuff them with white paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture. Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and humid conditions. Allow ample drying time to prevent discoloration.