Skip to main content

How to remove scuff marks from shoes (6 methods that really work)

These tips for how to remove scuff marks will make you your shoes' best friend

Man removing shoe scuff marks
John Dowland / Getty Images

Here's an all too familiar scenario: you get a brand-new pair of leather shoes and walk around as carefully as possible so they don't get scuffed up. But eventually it happens. You walk too close to the side of a building and finally scrape your shoe along its edge. After cursing yourself for scuffing your shoes for a moment, it comes times to face the inevitable. Shoes, and especially leather shoes, get scuffed. Here's how to work out the marks using a variety of substances you probably already have at home.

Recommended Videos

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

5 minutes

What You Need

  • Baking soda

  • Rubber eraser

  • Petroleum jelly

  • Nail polish remover

  • Rubbing alcohol

  • Toothpaste

Before you dive headfirst into any cleaning methods, make sure to take an inconspicuous spot on your shoe to spot clean. Doing a test run will ensure you don't stain, damage, or make the scuff mark worse. When just a clean cloth and elbow grease or warm water and mild liquid soap doesn't do the trick, switch over to one of our tips for how to remove scuff marks from your shoe lineup.

A box of Arm and Hammer baking soda on a table
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Remove scuff marks with baking soda

This widely available product is likely sitting in your pantry or refrigerator right now. It has a wide range of applications and is often used in toothpaste for its ability to remove stains.

Step 1: Combine 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda and enough warm water to create an evenly consistent paste.

Step 2: Using a cloth, polish the shoes and remove the excess paste with a second clean, damp cloth.

A lot of rubber erasers.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Remove scuff marks with a rubber eraser

Not to be confused with a magic eraser, which is not meant for leather, this school kid staple should be in every adult’s shoe repair quiver. And while the more common, pink-colored erasers work, you'll likely have to remove the residue once done. White erasers leave less of this residue.

Step 1: Make sure to brush any dirt or debris off the shoe before using the eraser method.

Step 2: Utilizing small circular motions, gently polish the scuff marks away.

Step 3: Use this method on vinyl, patent leather, and suede shoes.

Scooping petroleum jelly out of the jar.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Remove scuff marks with petroleum jelly

In addition to reducing diaper rash in babies, petroleum jelly (i.e., Vaseline) is also a game-changer in helping to heal minor injuries on human skin as well as leather shoes.

Step 1: Using a clean and dry cloth, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly in circular motions to the affected area of the shoe.

Step 2: Allow the product to sit briefly on the surface before removing it with another clean cloth.

Nail polish remover
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Remove scuff marks with nail polish remover

While nail polish might be horrible for cleaning your glasses, it is an effective tool for removing scuff mark from your shoes.

Step 1: Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and polish the scuffs with small, circular motions.

Step 2: Use this method for patent leather shoes and sneakers.

A view of isopropyl alcohol on a plastic dispenser on a white background.
.

Remove scuff marks with rubbing alcohol

It’s excellent for sterilizing, but did you know that this inexpensive ingredient is also a great solution for removing scuffs and stains from patent leather? It's extremely simple to use, as well.

Step 1: If you don’t happen to have any rubbing alcohol at your disposal, you likely have hand sanitizer around.

Step 2: Slightly dampen a cloth and rub the area until the scuff is gone.

A toothpaste tube with the cap off.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Remove scuff marks with toothpaste

The next time you swap out your toothbrush, put the old one aside and save it for countless cleaning opportunities. In addition to working on canvas shoes, toothpaste is a good solution for leather and faux leather footwear. As a bonus, the toothpaste solution is also a great way to brighten up those rubber soles.

Step 1: Apply a small amount of white (non-gel) toothpaste to the brush and gently polish the scuffs.

Step 2: With a damp cloth, wipe away the toothpaste and allow the shoes to air dry.

Man sitting in a chair with dress shoes
Rene Asmussen / Pexels

5 ways to prevent scuffing your shoes

Protecting your shoes from scuffing is essential to maintaining their appearance and longevity. Here are five effective methods to prevent scuffs:

  1. Invest in protective products: Apply a quality shoe protector spray to create a barrier against scuffs and stains. Regularly reapply to ensure future protection.
  2. Store properly: Store your shoes individually in cloth or felt shoe bags to prevent them from rubbing against each other.
  3. Be mindful of your surroundings: Be cautious of your environment, avoiding abrasive surfaces or rough terrains that could lead to scuffs. Stay clear of areas that pose a higher risk of damaging your shoes.
  4. Use toe taps or guards: Attach these thin protective layers to the front of your shoe soles to absorb impact and shield the leather from scuffing when walking.
  5. Apply regular maintenance: Clean your shoes regularly with a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and debris that could lead to scuffs. Apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and less prone to damage.

Nothing is worse than getting a new pair of shoes only to have them ruined when you mark them up on their first time out of the house. Scuffs happen, but it doesn't have to be the end of your spotless shoes. Using these methods, prolong the life of your shoes — from strict and formal to the best business casual — and keep them looking as brand-new as possible.

Topics
Mark McKee
Mark is a full-time freelance writer and men's coach. He spent time as a style consultant and bespoke suit salesman before…
Salomon and MM6 unite for two new innovative trail-running shoes
Salomon, Mm6 Maison Margiela redesign trail sneakers
pink sneakers on concrete

Once again, Salomon and MM6 Maison Margiela are joining forces to release two new designs, and this drop is unlike their previous work. This time around the two fashion-forward brands are reworking two Salomon designs to make them even more captivating and modern. The two new sneakers speak to a contemporary approach to the trails as they were redesigned with an urban eye. While one of the new designs comes in a bright and vibrant hue, the other is perfect for minimalists who love a sleeker touch. Although both are unconventional in their ways, they make for the perfect statement footwear for your closet, whether or not you hit the trails. 
Cross Low and Acs Pro Mm6 Maison Margiela

For their latest collaboration, Salomon and Mm6 Maison Margiela redesigned the “Speedcross” shoe and renamed it “Cross Low.” This distinct silhouette includes a nylon closure that connects to a hi-tech molded composite sole via tapered waterproof seams. The inner slip-on shoe made of 3D mesh allows users to find a more comfortable and snug fit. The Speedcross’ redesigned lug pattern gives wearers a better feel and more stability. This shoe is ideal for all hikers as the waterproof design works from the inside out.

Read more
Save $50 on the Adidas Grand Court shoes during this sale
Adidas Grand Court Shoes on a white background.

One of the best sneaker deals today requires going straight to the source: a huge $49 off the Adidas Grand Court Shoes at Adidas. Normally priced at $70, you can buy them for just $21 right now, which is a fantastic deal for such simple yet stylish sneakers. These are the sneakers you'll be grabbing for often, as they work with so many different outfits. If you want a new pair of sneakers without paying much, read on while we take you through everything you need to know about them.

Why you should buy the Adidas Grand Court Shoes
These are the sneakers that will go with whatever you’re wearing and whatever you plan on doing. Sure, they won’t be much good for anyone seeking the best Adidas running shoes, but these are certainly the sneakers you need in your wardrobe. They offer the classic 3-Stripes that we all know and love with a minimalist style that suits all occasions. While some sneakers are highly situational, these work for pretty much every day and every situation.

Read more
Converse has a huge sale with up to 60% off select shoes
Converse Shoes on a white background.

Sneaker deals are always fun to browse, and today it’s Converse fans who can enjoy some deep discounts. You can get up to 60% off over 270 different shoes on sale on Converse's website. With so many different types of shoes on sale, the best thing you can do is click the link below to see what’s out there for yourself. After all, we all have our own unique styles and you know what works for you. Alternatively, if you want a little guidance on the best options, keep reading and we’ll take you through the highlights.

What to shop for in the Converse sale
For a classic fit and the perfect choice for anyone seeking the best summer footwear for next year, check out the . The shoes normally cost $90 but they’re down to $80 right now with a range of different colors to choose from. They offer a durable canvas build along with OrthoLite cushioning for optimal comfort. It also has great vintage-inspired design elements like an egret midsole, ornate stitching, and a taller rubber sidewall. With an iconic style, it’ll suit every casual occasion.

Read more