How to clean your canvas shoes

Now that the summer is finally here we start using our canvas on a daily basis. But, like anything else, canvas shoes can get very dirty.

 

Here is the “how to” of cleaning your canvas shoes:

 

1- The quick-lazy-don’t have time way:

  • Take the laces and insoles out and place your canvas in the washing machine on a shoe cycle at cold temperature.
  • Leave them to dry and ready to go!

2- The old fashion way (and the most recommended):

  • Take the laces and insoles out.
  • Fill a bucket with cold water and put some mild detergent (Woolite type or neutral soap bar). Put your canvas in.
  • Use an old toothbrush to properly clean every corner.
  • Rinse your shoes in cold water.
  • Don’t forget to wash your laces too! (you can wash the insoles with rubbing alcohol).

Some things to have in mind not to ruin your canvas shoes:

  1. Strong detergents can stain your white canvas.
  2. Never leave your canvas to dry on the sun as they can become yellowy!
  3. If you have white canvas, sprinkle them with talc powder when leaving them to dry. Once dried, brush the talc off with a dry and soft toothbrush. They will look like new!
  4. After washing you canvas, make sure to return them back to their original shape by pulling the material with your hands as canvas shoes tend to shrink a little bit when washed.

Enjoy the weather… and your new canvas!

 

3 thoughts on “How to clean your canvas shoes

  1. lithicworks.com

    Pretty great post. I just stumbled upon your blog
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  2. Shoes Enthusiast

    Just read your article and I have already used your tips for my cycling shoes! I have been in the Shoe trade for many years and your advice is certainly new to me! Great advice thank you.

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