How to Clean Converse Shoes - It's Really Easy

Most converse sneakers are made from a combination canvas, metal eyelets, and rubber soles. Thus, a a sneaker cleaning kit that has products specifically made for these materials would be enough.

However, many shoe owners, especially those who wear their converse on a regular basis, tend to either neglect the cleaning process or just don't know which are the best ways to clean them.

Read on so you can learn the best ways to clean your converse shoes and keep them in pristine condition for longer.

Gather Your Materials

First things first, gather all the materials needed before starting the cleaning process. This includes:

• A soft bristle brush or old toothbrush
• Mild detergent or shoe cleaner
• Warm water
• White vinegar (optional)
• Baking soda (optional)
• A clean cloth
• Newspaper or paper towels (to stuff inside the shoes)

Step-By-Step Cleaning Process

Once you have all your materials ready, follow this step-by-step guide to effectively clean your converse shoes:

Step 1: Remove the Laces

To effectively clean your shoes on every surface, it is necessary to remove the shoelaces. This will give you better access to all parts of the shoes and prevent any missed spots during cleaning.

Step 2: Brush off Loose Dirt

Using a soft bristle brush or an old toothbrush, gently brush off any loose dirt from the rubber parts and fabric parts of your converse.

Pay particular attention to those parts of the sneakers where stain and dirt are most likely to accumulate, such as the soles and around the eyelets. For stubborn dirt or detailed cleaning, use a toothbrush for better precision and access to tight spots.

Step 3: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution

Based on the materials provided above, it's now time to prepare your cleaning solution. If you don't have a specialized shoe cleaner, a mild laundry detergent will suffice.

Mix a small quantity of the detergent with warm water until it forms a soapy solution. If your Chuck Taylors have stubborn stains, consider creating a paste with baking soda and vinegar. This concoction is particularly effective at removing difficult stains.

Always remember to test a small area of your shoes with the cleaning solution to ensure it won't cause discoloration.

Step 4: Start Cleaning

Dip the brush or toothbrush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub your shoes in a circular motion. This method is especially effective for a deep clean, as it allows the bristles of the brush to penetrate the fabric and remove any embedded dirt or grime. Be sure to cover all areas of the sneaker for a thorough wash.

Step 4.1: Clean the Laces

Don't forget about the shoelaces! It's also advisable to clean the laces separately to ensure that they're as spotless as your freshly washed shoes. You can use bleach (only for white laces) and soak them in a solution of warm water and a small amount of laundry detergent. Let the laces soak for a few minutes before rinsing them under warm water.

Make sure to let your shoes and laces air dry after cleaning. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the shoes to discolor and the rubber to crack or warp.

Step 5: Let Them Dry

After cleaning, stuff your converse shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help them retain their shape while drying.

Place them in a well-ventilated area and let them air dry completely. It's best to let them dry naturally rather than using a dryer or any heat source, as this can damage the fabric and rubber of the shoes.

Cleaning Suede Converse Shoes

There are some special considerations to keep in mind when cleaning suede Converse shoes. For the suede parts, using a suede eraser or magic eraser is highly recommended to remove marks and scuffs.

For stubborn stains, a crepe brush is also an effective tool for eliminating dirt and restoring the suede's nap. However, remember to be gentle when using these tools to avoid causing damage to the delicate material.

Get your crepe brush here!

For the suede Converse rubber parts, just repeat the cleaning process as described in the steps above. This will ensure that your suede Converse shoes are thoroughly cleaned and maintained in top-notch condition.

Cleaning Leather Converse Shoes

Another material that is Converse shoes are often made from is leather. Cleaning leather converse shoes requires a different approach compared to canvas or suede materials.

Start by wiping down the rubber parts of the shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. For the leather parts, use a specialized leather cleaner or saddle soap to remove any dirt or stains.

After cleaning, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to help keep the leather soft and supple. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product label for best results.

Check out Stone and Clark's Complete Leather Shone Shine Kit to give your sneakers a boost of shine and protection.

Can You Put Your Converse Shoes in the Washing Machine?

Yes, you can certainly put your Converse All Stars in the washing machine! To ensure a safe and effective clean, there are a few steps to follow.

1. Firstly, remove the laces from your shoes.
2. Then, place both your shoes and laces inside a laundry bag or pillowcase, securing it with a solid knot.
3. The next step in the process to wash your shoes in the washing machine involves setting your machine to a gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 30°C, and adding a small amount of detergent.

It's crucial to remember not to engage the spin function during this cycle. This method is a simple and efficient way to clean your Converse All Stars, allowing you to enjoy your sneakers for longer.

Additional Tips

To further enhance your cleaning results, here are additional tips specifically for white Converse shoes:

• When cleaning white Converse shoes, put your shoes in a pillowcase or laundry bag before washing to protect them from harsh machine cycles.
• Use a solution of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to remove stains. Apply this mixture on the stained areas and gently scrub until you're satisfied with the result.
• After cleaning, you can help your shoes keep their shape using crumpled newspaper or paper towels. Stuff them into the shoes during the drying process.
• To cover clean and smell, consider using a fabric freshener or deodorizer spray after the shoes have completely dried.
• Invest in a water and stain repellent spray. This product will provide your shoes with a protective barrier against future stains and spills, making them easier to clean in the future. Remember to apply the spray evenly over the shoes and let them dry thoroughly before wearing.

These tips will help ensure your white Converse shoes stay bright and fresh, prolonging their lifespan and maintaining their stylish appeal.

Closing Thoughts

Keeping your Converse shoes in prime condition doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques and cleaning products, such as a good stain remover, you can learn how to clean Converse effectively and keep them looking great for a long time.

Regular maintenance not only enhances their aesthetic appearance but also extends their lifespan, giving you more mileage out of your favorite pair of kicks.

So, don't be afraid to strut in your Converse, knowing you have the know-how to keep them sparkling clean.