A savvy gran has shared a brilliant hack to get grubby white trainers looking brand new again – and it takes 30 minutes.
Babs – who goes by the username BrunchWithBabs on TikTok – has become a sensation on the platform, racking up almost four million followers by sharing handy life hacks. In her latest video, she demonstrated how to breathe new life into worn-out trainers as well as tackle yellowing soles.
“First, take out the laces, spray them with laundry spray and let soak in warm water with laundry detergent,” she said. “Next, dunk the trainers in a sink or tub filled with the detergent, and scrub all over, including the soles, using baking soda and a soft bristled brush. Finally, let them soak for 30 min to an hour before rinsing.”
To prove her method works, Babs then dipped a pair of mucky trainers into a bowl and scrubbed them clean using baking soda and a toothbrush. The once-filthy trainers were left impressively clean.
“All this came out of these,” she said, pointing to some very dirty water.
Babs then detailed her simple trick to clean the soles of shoes. Applying Volume 40 hair developer, she said: “Just brush it on those yellowing soles,” she advised, before wrapping them in paper towels.
“Now place them in direct sunlight and look at the difference,” she added. “This is the perfect way to keep them looking bright and new.”
Bab’s fans were thrilled with her advice, with one TikTok user replying: “Awesome tips for keeping shoes looking bright and white like new. Thank you Babs!” Another commented: “I never would have thought hair developer but it makes sense! Especially the higher volume. Thanks!”
Meanwhile, a third fan chimed in: “You ma’am have just saved about 10 pairs of my old skate shoes. They are all yellow souled.” And a fourth TikTok user exclaimed: “This video was made for me and I was about to buy brand new white shoes too! Thanks Babs!”
Babs just celebrated her four-year TikTok anniversary and shared a heartfelt message with her fans. “I can’t believe that it’s been 4 years since, at the behest of my daughter, I posted my very first video on social media!” she said.
“And I can’t believe how my life has changed since that initial experience. I’ve done so many things I never thought I would do. I’ve connected with so many of you in ways I could have never imagined. I keep saying, and it’s so true, that we’re all one family and your messages and words of encouragement are truly what keeps me going.
“No matter what we do or where we are in life, I’m truly a testament that you never know what’s around the corner. We are all here for a purpose and we all have blessings to share.”
