Have your shiny new
pointe shoes lost their shine? Pointe shoes are so beautiful when they are new, but they don't look that way for long. If your pointe shoes are looking a little dirty, here are a few tips for removing or minimizing stains. Follow these tips to learn how to properly clean your pointe shoes.
Tip #1: Baking Soda
Baking soda has a great reputation for cleaning all sorts of items, including pointe shoes. Begin by mixing a small amount of baking soda and water until a paste is formed. Using a soft cloth or a toothbrush, gently apply a small amount of paste directly onto stubborn stains. Gently rub the stain with a circular motion. Allow the baking soda paste to dry overnight. The next day, gently wipe away the remaining powdery residue. Most stains will be visibly lighter, if not gone.
Tip #2: Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent may be used in place of baking soad, as described above. Simply dab a small amount of liquid detergent onto stubborn stains with a soft cloth or toothbrush. Wipe away with a clean cloth slightly dampened with clean water.
Tip #3: Calamine Lotion
Calamine lotion works great as an overall pointe shoe cleaner, as its color closely resembles that of satin pointe shoes. Dab a cotton ball into a small amount of calamine lotion. Gently pat the cotton ball all over the pointe shoes, paying special attention to dirty areas. The calamine lotion will absorb some of the larger stains, and give your pointe shoes a clean, even tone.
Do's and Don'ts
Never use water to clean your pointe shoes, as doing so will soften them and cause them to wear out much more quickly. Do allow your pointe shoes to dry completely before wearing. Consider placing the shoes by a fan or an open window overnight. Also, never rub your pointe shoes with abrasive brushes or cloths, as this may remove the satin finish of your shoes.
