If you’ve ever glanced at your white sneakers and wondered how they got so dirty so fast, you’re definitely not the only one.

Keeping them looking clean often feels like a losing battle, especially for those who spend time outdoors.

However, there’s a budget-friendly solution waiting on a nearby store shelf that could make all the difference. Many are now discovering this simple fix for just a few dollars.



That’s right—there’s a $5 item at Bunnings that’s been flying off the shelves, and for a very good reason.

Enter the humble Magic Eraser (or, as it’s known at Bunnings, the Mr Clean Eraser Pad Block).

While it’s long been a favourite for tackling grubby walls and scuffed skirting boards, cleaning experts are now swearing by it as the 'holy grail' for reviving tired white sneakers.


For those who haven’t yet discovered this little wonder, the Magic Eraser is a block of melamine foam.

It works like a super-fine sandpaper, gently lifting away dirt, grime, and marks from a variety of surfaces.

Traditionally, it’s been the go-to for removing crayon from walls (thanks, grandkids), scuffs from floors, and even stubborn tea stains from mugs.


But as US cleaning guru Caroline Solomon has shown her followers, the Magic Eraser’s talents don’t stop at household surfaces.

In a series of viral videos, Caroline demonstrates how a damp Magic Eraser can breathe new life into grubby white leather sneakers.

Simply wet the sponge (making sure it’s damp, not dripping), and gently scrub away at the leather and rubber soles.

The results are instantly brighter, cleaner shoes—no harsh chemicals or elbow grease required.

To clean your sneakers, start by dampening a Magic Eraser with water and squeezing out the excess so it’s just moist.

Gently scrub the leather and rubber areas, always testing a small spot first to avoid damage.

Take out the laces and soak them in warm, soapy water for about ten minutes, then scrub them lightly with an old toothbrush before letting them dry.

Once clean, rethread the laces and enjoy your refreshed shoes. Keep in mind the Magic Eraser will wear down, so some people cut it in half or only wet one end to make it last longer.

For canvas shoes or tougher stains, try a paste made from equal parts baking soda and dish soap, scrubbing it on with a toothbrush and wiping clean after it sits.

If marks remain, a stronger mix of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and warm water can help—just scrub, wipe off, and let your sneakers air dry.

It’s not just cleaning experts who are raving about the Magic Eraser. The Mr Clean Eraser Pad Block has a near-perfect 4.9-star rating on the Bunnings website, with reviewers praising its ability to banish scuffs and marks from all around the house.

While most reviews focus on walls and floors, the secret’s out—this little block is a game-changer for shoes, too.

And with a price tag under $5, it’s no wonder they’re selling out fast. If you want to stock up, you can grab a single block for $4.98, a four-pack for $7.49, or even a nine-pack online (though that’ll set you back a bit more).

While the Magic Eraser is a miracle worker, it is mildly abrasive. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first, especially if your shoes are made from delicate or coloured materials.


Have you used a Magic Eraser to clean your sneakers, or do you have another tried-and-true method for keeping your shoes looking their best? Share your tips, tricks, and before-and-after photos in the comments below.

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