If the stain is oil based, a degreaser or dry cornflour can get things started, but you still may need to use the soapy cleaning solution to finish the job. Before you take the next steps to clean the shoe itself, hit the laces. Depending on how dirty the laces are—and how clean you want them—try these three steps: Once clean and dry, use a leather conditioner on the exterior or leather sections of the bag to restore it.

Remove the laces from the shoes and apply a small amount of mild cleaning solution with your hands or a brush. Rinse with water, then dab them dry with a soft cloth.Treat stains first by using a cloth or toothbrush to apply a non-bleach detergent or stain remover to the spot. Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes before gently scrubbing. Rinse the treated area with cold water before tossing it into the washing machine.

Leave your shoelaces in the bleach solution for five minutes. Afterwards, you can wash them again by hand or throw them in the washing machine (while inside the mesh bag) on a gentle cycle. Make sure you allow them to air dry, since heat can deform the plastic tips. For other stains, combine warm water and washing-up liquid. Dab the mixture onto the leather with a clean towel. Wipe away the soapy mixture with a fresh damp towel and let dry.If the laces still need some love after washing them with the mild cleaning solution, you can also place them in a mesh laundry bag and run them through a gentle cycle in the washing machine. Remove any caked-on stains with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using water as this can further damage leather when not mixed with other cleaning agents. To return white laces to their original state, use bleach. Wearing latex or other cleaning gloves, mix three tablespoons of bleach in a gallon of water. Then, place your laces in a mesh laundry bag before submerging them in the bleach solution. (If they float to the top, use something heavy to keep the bag down and secured.) Wash on the gentle cycle with only a small amount of bleach-free detergent. Make sure you use cold water.