We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.
It's no secret that white shoes stain easily, but using one of the best shoe protector sprays for white shoes will save you the headache of trying to salvage the white after the damage is already done.
How To Care For White Shoes
When it comes to caring for white shoes, remember that prevention is key. Using a protectant is the quickest and easiest way to minimize the inevitable damage they face when venturing outside — including scuffs, stains, and sun or water damage. Protectant sprays are particularly important for white-colored shoes that make dirt extra visible as well as those made with sensitive fabrics (think leather or suede).
How Shoe Protector Sprays Work
They work by coating shoe fibers with a shielding outer layer that protects against weather and wear. Some are made specifically to prevent water damage or stains, while others are more apt to shield the fabric from color-fading UV rays. Keep in mind that some sprays are better suited for certain textures, so if you're planning to use yours on a finer fabric, make sure you choose an option that's safe for sensitive materials.
Here, I've rounded up the seven best shoe protector sprays for white shoes. They're sure to keep your favorite white kicks looking vibrant and new — and they're all available on Amazon. Pick your favorite below, and, relatedly, check out the best suede shoe cleaners to use beforehand.
Shop The Best Shoe Protector Sprays
In a hurry? These are the best shoe protector sprays for white shoes.
- A Popular Shoe Protector Spray For Sensitive Fabrics: Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellent, 5.5 Oz.
- A Shoe Protector Spray That Works On Suede, Canvas, Leather & Knits: FACTORY LACED - Deadstock Los Angeles Water & Stain Repellant for Shoes
- A Waterproof Spray That’s Particularly Great For Leather: Cadillac Select Premium Waterproofing Spray, 6 Oz.
- A More Versatile Waterproof Spray: Kiwi Sneaker Protector, 4.25 Oz.
- An Editor-Favorite: The Art of Crep Protect Spray, 5 Oz.
- A Great Value: Moneysworth & Best Pro-Tex Water & Stain Shoe Protector, 10.5 Oz.
- The Best Kit: Combat Cleaner Shoe Cleaner Kit, 4 Oz. Each
Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellent is a versatile, quick-drying shoe protectant spray that's safe to use on sensitive fabrics and light, white colors. The 5.5-ounce can sprays an invisible protective coating that repels water and stains without affecting the color or texture of the material. Specifically known for its effectiveness on fine leather fabrics, this spray isn't just for shoes — it also works on items like purses and jackets, and is super easy to use. For best results, Amazon reviewers recommend spraying it from a distance (at least 9 inches away) and applying multiple light coats.
According to one reviewer: “I use this on everything! It keeps white shoes bright and stands up against grass stains and water. It even works on high end purses.”
Use on: leather, suede, canvas, and soft fabrics | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 5.5 ounces
This odorless and colorless spray by Factory Laced is made using nanotechnology (i.e. works on a molecular scale) to be hydrophobic, repelling water, dirt, grease, grime, and more. It's safe to use on most materials including canvas, mesh, and knit. The full-sized, 6.5-ounce bottle is good for up to 15 pairs of shoes and lasts up to 6 weeks. The company provides a 100% money-back guarantee.
According to one reviewer: “White shoes never last long with me, after one wear and they get super dirty but I used this on my new white shoes and it’s been a year since I sprayed it on them and they have not gotten dirty I love this product so much and I’ve only sprayed two coats and never had to reapply it on again.”
Use on: suede, nubuck, canvas, mesh, various knits, leather (note: not recommended for dark or patent leather) | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 6.5 ounces
Cadillac's Select spray is a great waterproof spray for white shoes, particularly leather materials like the ones Cadillac is known for. The breathable formula, available in a 6-ounce bottle, creates an outer barrier that repels liquid, simultaneously keeping your feet dry and protecting your shoes from potential water damage. Silicone-free and made in the U.S., this option doesn't contain harsh chemicals and won't leave behind any residue, so it's safe for use on any type of fabric. Cadillac has been creating top-quality leather and shoe care products for decades, so you can trust that this spray will work.
According to one reviewer: “Here in the upper peninsula of Michigan we have a lot of snow and ice and just walking from the car to the grocery store or out to get the mail at the end of the driveway can ruin the appearance of leather boots in the matter of one season. Spend the few bucks to purchase this protectant and it will save you from having to replace your leather boots for many, many years.”
Use on: suede, sheepskin, nubuck, and leather | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 6 ounces
Kiwi’s sneaker protector spray works on many different fabrics and materials, and repels stains while waterproofing your shoes. In fact, this sneaker protector is step two of Kiwi’s three-step shoe cleaning kit, whereby you clean, protect, and deodorize all of your sneakers. This would make for a great upgrade if you’re dealing with shoes that may already have a bit of dirt or discoloring. Because it can be used on one of the widest spectrums of fabrics available and has a waterproof formula, this shoe protector spray is a fantastic purchase you’ll be able to use year-round on a variety of shoes.
According to one reviewer: “I bought this to protect a new pair of white Vans, which are a canvas material. I have worn my new shows twice since using the spray on them, and so far it is holding up! No staining from random dust particles or having people step on my toes - I am so happy!”
Use on: full-grain, patent, synthetic, and faux leather, canvas, suede, nubuck, mesh, nylon, and soft fabrics | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 4.25 ounces
A cult-favorite shoe protector, this spray from Crep Protect is a standout favorite that creates a shield around your shoes to repel stains and water. This brand is a favorite of Associate Commerce Editor, Carina Finn, who says, “I have a pretty extensive sneaker collection, and I use Crep Protect's products as soon as I get a new pair to keep them looking like new, even after walking around New York City streets." Amazon reviewers say this water-repellent spray has enough formula for around five pairs of shoes, so keep this in mind if you’re looking to outfit an entire sneaker collection.
According to a reviewer: “I bought this to protect my white canvas nikes for my sister's wedding in New Orleans. After wearing them all day and night, even through rain on Bourbon Street, they are STILL white and CLEAN. Hands down, best product I could have purchased.”
Use on: leather, suede, canvas, and nubuck | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 5 ounces
With 10.5 ounces of shoe protector, this spray is one of the best values on this list, and works on leathers, suede, nubuck, and other soft fabrics. Reviewers with leather, fabric, and mesh white shoes have used this water-repellent spray to protect their kicks with a lot of luck. It’s designed to repel dirt, water, and oils, so you’ll have plenty of coverage when you wear your white shoes out and about. One note: This is not advised for vinyl or patent leather, so if you’re looking to use it on white shoes made of those materials, go with a different spray on this list.
According to one reviewer: “I bought this stuff to protect and waterproof my leather, suede, and canvas shoes. I used it on white, beige, brown, and blue shoes without any problems. There wasn't any discoloration or fading of the materials. I was able to spray 2 coats on 15 pairs of shoes with one can, so definitely a good value. I'll definitely be spraying all of my new shoes with this stuff going forward!”
Use on: genuine or man-made leathers, suede, nubuck, and soft fabrics | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 10.5 ounces
You’ll get everything you need with this shoe cleaning kit, which features a 3-part system so you can freshen, protect, and clean your shoes. This kit comes with its own scrub brush, so you can spray the cleaner and scrub to return your formerly white shoes to their sparkling original color, then eliminate any odors, and finally, shield your shoes from stains, water, and dirt. This popular kit also comes with a 100% money-back guarantee should you decide you don’t love it.
According to one reviewer: “I had a pair of Steve Madden's sneakers that got caught in the mud, the stains wouldn't go out after they dried up. I purchased this shoe cleaner and tried it out. 1 word: AMAZING. it removed the stains, and shoes look new. I was definitely not disappointed. [...] And the deodorizer helps the most. One spray a week helps keep the shoes smelling nice.”
Use on: leather, suede, canvas, foam, mesh, and soft fabrics | Water-repellent? Yes | Size: 4 ounces
This article was originally published on
