White sneakers: The ageless icon and how to keep them clean

White sneakers are a must-have, no matter your age. You don’t need to be a fashion expert to know they’re as essential as a good pair of jeans.

They are timeless, versatile, and loved across generations, making them the ultimate style shortcut.

Even my dad, with his classic taste, swears by them, while my Gen Z son practically lives in his Nike Air Force 1s.

There are a few fashion items that have stuck around over the years, quite like a pristine pair of white kicks.

Even though they started as sports shoes, think tennis shoes, they slowly crept into everyday lives, becoming a symbol of cool comfort.

My dad used to rock New Balances, which are now referred to as “dad sneakers”, while my youngest daughter is begging for a pair of Adidas Sambas. 

Then there's me, now clocking in at 50, who used to love my canvas Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars in my young days. I wore them with just about everything.

Now my go-to white sneaker is a classic pair of Adidas Stan Smiths, even though I’m well aware of the fact that the Sambas are all the rage right now.

Yes, the Nike Air Force 1s are still a big seller amongst the young ones, but some are now gravitating towards the retro styles like the New Balance 530s and the Vintage Club C 85 Reeboks.

White sneakers are the ultimate chameleon in your wardrobe. 

They instantly elevate a casual outfit, add a cool edge to something more dressed up, and seriously, they go with everything. 

They bring a fresh, clean, and effortlessly chic vibe to any look.

Whether you're aiming for athleisure, minimalist, or even a smart-casual ensemble, a pair of white sneakers just works.

I’ve even seen gents rocking them with suits!

But let's be real, owning white sneakers comes with one big drawback: they’re notoriously difficult to keep clean.

One stray puddle, a rogue coffee spill, or even just daily wear can turn your pristine kicks into a dirty disaster. 

It's a constant battle against scuffs, grime, and that dreaded yellowing.

However, with a little bit of TLC, you can keep those white sneakers looking fresh. Here are a few tips on how to take care of yours.

• Spot clean immediately: The worst thing you can do is let a stain set. For small marks, a damp cloth with a little mild soap or even micellar water (yes the makeup remover) can work wonders.
• Laces first: Remove your laces and soak them in a bowl of warm, soapy water with a scoop of baking soda. You can even toss them in a mesh bag in the washing machine.
• Baking soda and vinegar paste: For more stubborn dirt on canvas or rubber, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of white vinegar to form a paste. Apply it with an old toothbrush, let it sit for a bit, then scrub and wipe clean.
• Protective spray: Invest in a good stain and water repellent spray. Apply it when your shoes are brand new and clean, and reapply periodically. It creates a barrier that makes dirt harder to stick.
• Air dry: Always air dry your sneakers away from direct sunlight or heat, which can cause yellowing. Stuff them with paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.

So, while the struggle is real, the timeless style of white sneakers makes all that cleaning worthwhile.

They're not just a trend; they're a fashion legacy, and they’re definitely here to stay.

IOL Lifestyle