How to Clean Sneaker Laces: Soaking and Whitening

Why clean sneaker laces

Sneaker laces collect dirt, sweat, and skin oils every time you wear them. Over time, these residues make laces look gray or yellow, and they can transfer grime back onto a clean upper. Keeping laces clean is an easy way to extend the life of your sneakers and keep them looking fresh.

Regular cleaning also prevents the buildup of odor-causing bacteria. Clean laces are especially important if you wear sneakers without socks or if you have active shoes that get heavy use. A quick soak and rinse can make a visible difference in the overall appearance of the shoe.

Prepare your supplies

Before you start, remove the laces from your sneakers. This lets you clean the laces thoroughly and also gives you access to the eyelets and tongue for separate cleaning. Check the laces for fraying or damage; if they are too worn, consider replacing them.

You will need a bowl or basin, warm water, a mild detergent (like dish soap or laundry detergent), a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well), and a clean towel. For whitening, have baking soda, white vinegar, or an oxygen-based cleaner on hand. Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, which can weaken the fibers and cause yellowing.

If your laces have metal tips, be careful not to soak them for too long, as moisture can cause corrosion. If they are removable, you can take the tips off, but most are not designed to be removed.

Hand washing method

Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent. Stir to create suds. Place the laces in the water and press them down so they are fully submerged. Let them soak for a few minutes to loosen dirt.

After soaking, gently scrub each lace with the soft brush, working from one end to the other. Pay extra attention to areas that are visibly dirty. For stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly, then let it sit briefly before scrubbing. This technique is especially effective for leather sneakers and other delicate materials.

Rinse the laces thoroughly under clean running water until the water runs clear. Squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing, which can distort the fibers. Pat them dry with a towel to remove remaining moisture.

Soaking and whitening white laces

For white cotton or polyester laces, an oxygen-based cleaner is effective at lifting yellowing and stains. Dissolve the cleaner in warm water according to the product instructions, then soak the laces. Soak until you see the water become cloudy with released dirt, but not longer than the product recommends, as prolonged soaking can weaken the fibers.

A vinegar and baking soda combination is a gentle alternative. Mix a small amount of white vinegar with warm water and add a spoonful of baking soda. The fizzing helps lift stains. Soak the laces for a while, then scrub lightly with a brush. Rinse thoroughly afterward. To keep your running sneakers looking sharp, repeat this process as needed.

If the laces are very yellowed, you may need to repeat the process. Avoid using chlorine bleach, which can turn white cotton yellow over time. Always test any stronger cleaner on a hidden part of the lace first.

Drying and finishing

Never put laces in a tumble dryer, as the heat can shrink or warp them. Instead, lay them flat on a clean towel, or hang them to air dry. If you hang them, make sure they are not stretched or pulled, as wet laces are more elastic and can lose shape.

Once the laces are completely dry, re-lace your sneakers using your preferred method. If you have learned special lacing techniques, such as a heel lock or a wide-foot orientation, revisit them to make sure the laces sit correctly. Our guide to lacing techniques offers step-by-step options.

Consider having a spare set of laces on hand. Swapping in a fresh pair gives your sneakers a quick refresh and lets you clean the used set without downtime. Many sneaker brands sell replacement laces, and you can also find compatible ones for popular models.

How often to clean laces

For everyday sneakers, cleaning the laces every two to four weeks is a good rhythm. If you wear your sneakers for intense activities, like running or training, you may want to clean them more often, as sweat and dirt build up faster.

You can extend the time between cleanings by rotating between two pairs of sneakers, as recommended in our guide to building a sneaker rotation. Keeping a cleaning routine also lets you inspect laces for wear and prevent them from breaking at an awkward moment. For extra durability, check out our best everyday sneakers.

When laces become frayed or stained beyond cleaning, replace them instead of forcing another wash. Fresh laces are inexpensive and can make an old pair of sneakers look new again.

What to pick for your laces

Questions

Can I wash sneaker laces in the washing machine?

It is possible, but not ideal. Machine washing can tangle laces and cause them to twist or knot. The agitation can also cause fraying faster than hand washing. If you do use a machine, place the laces in a mesh bag and use a gentle cycle, then air dry. Hand washing is gentler and more effective for most laces. For specific material advice, see our guide to cleaning canvas sneakers.

How do I prevent white laces from yellowing?

Yellowing is often caused by sweat and oils that remain in the fibers. Rinse thoroughly after washing to remove all detergent, as leftover soap can break down and cause a yellow color. Avoid chlorine bleach and high heat drying, both of which can accelerate yellowing. Using an oxygen-based cleaner and air drying are the best ways to keep white laces bright. For overall sneaker whitening tips, try our white sneaker care guide.

Why do my laces get stiff after cleaning?

Stiffness usually comes from soap residue or hard water. Make sure you rinse laces very well to remove all detergent. If you have hard water, a final rinse with a little white vinegar can help soften the fibers. Letting them dry completely before use will also reduce stiffness. This is a common issue with new balance sneakers, but the solution works for any.

Is it safe to use bleach on laces?

Chlorine bleach is generally not recommended on sneaker laces because it can weaken the fibers and cause them to turn yellow or even break. Oxygen-based bleach (like OxiClean) is a gentler alternative that lifts stains without damaging the material. Always test a small area first if you are unsure. For more on cleaning specific uppers, see our mesh cleaning guide.

How long do laces need to soak?

There is no single rule, but a soak of 10 to 15 minutes is typically enough for moderate dirt. For heavily stained laces, you can soak longer, but check the laces regularly and do not exceed the product's recommended time. Over-soaking can cause the fibers to weaken and color to fade. To keep your slip-on sneakers looking fresh, follow this timing.

Can I use a toothbrush to scrub laces?

Yes, a soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for scrubbing laces without damaging them. It reaches into the weave and removes dirt from the thread. Use light pressure and work in small sections. Avoid metal brushes or hard-bristle brushes that can cut the fibers. This method pairs well with the care advice for suede sneakers.