How to clean white running shoes without using bleach - did you know, putting your running shoes in the washing machine can shorten the life-span of the shoe? Here’s how to keep your white running shoes fresh. 1: Add laundry detergent to a bucket of warm water. 2. Remove the laces and insoles. 3. Scrub the shoes with toothpaste (household cleaners can damage shoes). 4. Repeat with stain remover, focusing on dirty spots. 5. Soak the shoes while you clean the laces. 6. Rinse the shoes in clean wat