The water should be very hot but not boiling. [2] X Research source

You can re-dip the toothbrush head into the solution every minute or so to re-saturate the bristles and apply more salt solution to the stain. [5] X Research source You’ll likely need to scrub for several minutes before the stain will start to fade.

The water should be very hot but not boiling. [10] X Research source

Cream of tartar is available at most grocery stores in small containers, so you may have to purchase multiple containers to get enough to fill 1⁄2 cup (120 mL). You can purchase larger quantities of cream of tartar online.

If the bleach stains are new or relatively light, the yellow may fade more quickly. If the yellow stains are darker or have had longer to set in, you’ll likely need to soak your shoes for longer, up to an hour and a half.

Because cream of tartar is an acid, it can be a bit harsh on shoe materials. Therefore, it’s important that you rinse the shoes thoroughly to remove any residual acidic solution.

You can also dry your shoes by placing them in the dryer on the low heat setting for 30 minutes. If they aren’t quite dry after 30 minutes, put them through the dryer on low heat again for another 30 minutes.

If you’re afraid you might lose track of the shoelaces in the wash, you can put them in a zip pillowcase or lingerie bag to keep them together. [15] X Research source

You can also mix the detergent in by pouring it under the running water while the sink is filling up.

While you work on scrubbing one shoe, leave the other shoe submerged in the detergent solution to soak.

You don’t need to rinse out the detergent before transferring the shoes into the washing machine.

Adding white vinegar to the agitating water will help break down the stain even more and make your shoes whiter and brighter. Vinegar will also help remove any odors from your shoes. [21] X Research source

If the shoes aren’t dry after 30 minutes, put them through the dryer on low heat again for another 30 minutes.