Converse shoes are more than just footwear; they are a cultural symbol worn by people of all ages.
Whether you own a pair of classic Chuck Taylors, sleek One Stars, or another model, keeping them clean can be a bit challenging, especially if they are your go-to shoes.
They also require regular cleaning to maintain their look and longevity.
How do I clean Converse shoes?
Materials Needed
Before you start cleaning your Converse shoes, gather the following materials:
- Mild detergent or soap
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
- Microfiber cloths
- Magic Eraser
- Old toothbrush
- Washing machine (optional)
- A laundry bag (for machine washing)
- Water
Having these materials on hand will make the cleaning process smoother and more effective.
Cleaning laces
- Pour some mild detergent into the warm water and soak the laces.
- Rub the laces, and if they are still not clean, add a little bleach.
Cleaning the soles
- Use a magic eraser or a brush with soapy water to clean the rubber soles. Scrub thoroughly to remove any dirt or scuff marks, using circular motions.
- After cleaning, wipe off the moisture with a dry cloth.
- Never soak the shoes in water, otherwise the midsole of the shoes will easily come apart!
Clean the upper
Converse shoe uppers are made of different materials, so the cleaning methods are also different. Targeted cleaning is more effective.
Cleaning Canvas Converse shoes
- Brush Off Dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to remove loose dirt or debris.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water.
- Scrub the Shoes: Dip the brush into the solution and gently scrub the canvas in circular motions.
- Rinse: Wipe off the soap with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry: Stuff the shoes with paper towels to help them retain their shape and let them air dry.
Cleaning Suede Converse shoes
- Brush Off Dirt: Use a soft-bristled suede brush to remove loose dirt gently.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Spot Clean: Dip a cloth in the solution and gently dab the stained areas.
- Dry: Let the shoes air dry and then brush the suede to restore its texture.
Cleaning Leather Converse shoes
- Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water.
- Scrub the Shoes: Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the leather.
- Rinse: Wipe off the soap with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry: Use a dry cloth to pat the shoes dry and let them air dry completely.
How to clean white Converse shoes?
White Converse shoes are particularly prone to showing dirt and stains.
For general stains
- Dry Brush: Use a soft brush to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoes.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with warm water.
- Clean the Shoes: Dip the brush into the soapy water and scrub the shoes, focusing on stained or dirty areas. Avoid soaking the shoes completely in water to prevent damage.
For tougher stains
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Make a paste of baking soda and white vinegar, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing gently and rinsing throughly.
- Rubbing Alcohol: Dab a cloth in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain. This works well for ink or dye stains.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Apply hydrogen peroxide to the stain and let it bubble for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Dry white Converse shoes
- Wrap the shoes with paper towels to prevent yellowing.
- Stuff the shoes with paper towels or cloths to help them keep their shape while drying.
- Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Allow them to air dry completely.
How to wash Converse shoes in washer?
Place Shoes in a Laundry Bag
Put your Converse shoes in a laundry bag. This will help protect them from getting damaged in the washing machine.
Set the Washing Machine
- Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize the wear and tear on your shoes.
- Water Temperature: Use cold water to prevent any shrinkage or damage to the fabric.
- Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent.
Start the Wash
Run the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water.
Drying Your Converse Shoes
- Air Dry Only: Never use a dryer, as the heat can warp and damage the shoes.
- Stuff with Paper Towels: To help them retain their shape, stuff the shoes with paper towels.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Dry them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration and damage to the material.
- If it is white Converse shoes, you need to wrap them with paper towels to prevent them from turning yellow.
How to clean the rubber on Converse shoes?
- Dry Brush
Use a dry toothbrush or soft brush to remove any loose dirt or debris from the rubber areas.
- Magic Eraser
- Wet the Magic Eraser: Dampen the magic eraser with a little water.
- Scrub the Rubber: Gently rub the magic eraser over the rubber parts of the shoes. The eraser is excellent for removing scuffs and stains.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar Paste
- Make the Paste: Mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar to form a paste.
- Apply the Paste: Apply the paste to the rubber areas using a toothbrush or soft brush.
- Scrub: Gently scrub the rubber with the brush, focusing on any stained or discolored areas.
- Rinse: Wipe off the paste with a clean, damp cloth or sponge.
- Soap and Water
- Prepare Solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with warm water.
- Scrub the Rubber: Dip the brush into the soapy water and scrub the rubber parts of the shoes. This method is good for general cleaning and removing grime.
- Rinse: Use a clean, damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the soap and any dirt.
- Dry the Shoes
After cleaning, use a dry cloth to wipe off any excess moisture from the rubber parts. Allow the shoes to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area.
How to care for Converse Shoes?
- Regular Cleaning
Wipe down your shoes regularly with a damp cloth to prevent dirt buildup.
- Protective Spray
Use a fabric protector spray to make it easier to clean your shoes in the future.
- Proper Storage
Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew.
Dos and Don’ts:
Dos:
- Do use mild detergents or soaps.
- Do use soft brushes or cloths to avoid damaging the material.
- Do let your shoes air dry to maintain their shape.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the fabric.
- Don’t put your Converse shoes in the washing machine or dryer.
- Don’t dry your shoes in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
Can you wash Converse shoes?
Yes, you can wash Converse shoes and You can wash them by hand or machine.
Converse All-Star, the classic style of Converse shoes, is made of canvas, which is a relatively easy-to-wash material.
Canvas is usually durable and can withstand a certain degree of washing, but it should be noted that the bottom of Converse shoes is usually made of rubber, which is not suitable for long-term contact with water.
Can you put Converse shoes in the washer?
Yes, you can wash your Converse shoes in the washer.
Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and place them in a shoe bag for the washing machine to protect them from damage during the washing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bleach on my white Converse?
A: It's not recommended to use bleach as it can weaken the fabric and cause yellowing. Stick to baking soda and vinegar for cleaning white Converse.
Q: How often should I clean my Converse shoes?
A: The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you wear them. As a general rule, clean them once a month or whenever they become visibly dirty.
Q: Can I dry my Converse shoes in the dryer?
A: No, always air dry your Converse shoes to avoid damage from the heat.
Q: How do I clean the insoles of my Converse shoes?
A: Remove the insoles and hand wash them with mild soap and water. Let them air dry completely before reinserting them into your shoes.