Winter brings cold temperatures, icy sidewalks, and a necessary but troublesome side effect—road salt. While salt helps prevent slippery surfaces, it can be harsh on shoes, leaving behind unsightly white stains that can damage leather, suede, and fabric if not properly cleaned.

Removing road salt stains safely requires gentle but effective methods to prevent lasting damage to your footwear. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keeping your shoes clean and protected throughout the winter season.

Why Road Salt Stains Your Shoes

Road salt, often a mix of sodium chloride or calcium chloride, is used to melt ice and snow on roads and sidewalks. When you walk through salted areas, the moisture containing dissolved salt soaks into your shoes.

As the water evaporates, it leaves behind white, chalky salt deposits that can dry out leather, weaken the fabric, and cause cracking over time. The longer these stains sit, the harder they are to remove, making quick cleaning essential.

Step 1: Brush Off Loose Salt and Dirt

Before applying any liquid cleaner, start by removing any loose dirt, salt, or slush from your shoes. Use a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth to gently brush away debris. This prevents rubbing dirt deeper into the material when you begin the cleaning process.

For suede shoes, use a suede brush or a dry microfiber cloth to lightly lift salt residue. Be careful not to press too hard, as suede is delicate and can become rough or damaged.

Step 2: Use a Vinegar and Water Solution

A simple yet effective solution for removing salt stains is white vinegar mixed with water. Vinegar helps dissolve salt without harming most shoe materials. We interviewed Jamal, a spokesperson from 5asec, a shoe restoration expert in Dubai, to learn about the best vinegar and water solution for removing salt stains from shoes. Let’s have a look at the steps shared by experts for removing salt stains on shoes.

How to Make and Apply the Solution:

1. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts warm water in a small bowl.
2. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently dab the stained area. Avoid soaking the shoe—excess moisture can weaken certain materials.
3. Let the vinegar sit for a minute or two to break down the salt.
4. Wipe away the solution with a clean, damp cloth to remove any leftover vinegar.

For leather shoes, follow up with a leather conditioner to restore moisture and prevent cracking.

Step 3: Addressing Stubborn Stains

If the vinegar solution doesn’t fully remove the salt stains, try repeating the process or using a mild soap mixed with warm water. Gently scrub with a soft cloth, paying close attention to affected areas.

For suede shoes, a suede eraser or an old toothbrush can help lift stubborn salt marks. After cleaning, use a suede brush to restore the shoe’s natural texture.

Step 4: Dry Shoes Properly

Never leave wet shoes near direct heat sources like radiators, space heaters, or fireplaces, as extreme heat can cause the leather to crack and suede to become brittle. Instead, let them air dry at room temperature. Stuffing shoes with newspaper or dry towels can help absorb excess moisture and maintain their shape.

For fabric shoes, a gentle blow-dry on a low heat setting can speed up drying, but be sure to keep the dryer moving to prevent heat damage.

Step 5: Protect Shoes from Future Salt Damage

Once your shoes are clean, taking preventive measures can help minimize future salt stains.

Apply a Protective Spray

Waterproof sprays or shoe protectants create a barrier that prevents salt and moisture from penetrating the shoe material. Choose a product suited for your shoe type, whether it’s leather, suede, or fabric. Apply the spray before the winter season and reapply every few weeks for continuous protection.

Wipe Off Salt Immediately

After walking through salted areas, take a moment to wipe your shoes with a damp cloth before stains set in. The quicker you remove salt, the easier it is to clean.

Rotate Your Shoes

Wearing the same pair every day exposes them to constant salt and moisture. Rotating between multiple pairs allows shoes to dry properly between uses, reducing long-term damage.

Salt stains are an unavoidable part of winter, but they don’t have to ruin your shoes. By using a simple vinegar and water solution, drying shoes properly, and applying protective treatments, you can keep your footwear looking fresh and damage-free. Regular care and quick action against salt buildup will ensure that your shoes last through many winters to come.