How To Clean Canvas Shoes

Canvas shoes are comfortable, versatile and generally not very expensive. They’re a great addition to any wardrobe but they can also get dirty pretty quickly. Here’s a handy guide on how to clean your canvas shoes and make them look almost as good as new.

Materials Needed

  • Water
  • Mild detergent or dish soap
  • An old toothbrush
  • Soft cloth or sponge
  • Paper towels or newspaper

Steps to Clean Canvas Shoes

1. Remove the laces

First things first, remove the laces from your shoes. This will give you fuller access to the canvas material and ensure a more thorough cleaning. You can clean the laces separately by soaking them in soapy water, then rinsing and allowing them to air dry.

2. Create your cleaning solution

Next, create a cleaning solution. Mix a cup of warm water with a tablespoon of a mild detergent or dish soap. You don’t want the solution to be overly soapy, but just sudsy enough to clean.

3. Scrub your shoes

Take your toothbrush, dip it into your cleaning solution and gently scrub the canvas areas of your shoes. Be sure to scrub the entire shoe, including the sides and tongue. If you encounter any stubborn stains, apply a little extra pressure.

4. Wipe them clean

Once you’ve scrubbed your shoes, take your soft cloth or sponge, dampen it with clean water and wipe down your shoes. This should remove most of the soap. Repeat this step until all the soap is gone and your shoes are clean.

5. Dry your shoes

After your shoes are clean, it’s time to dry them. Stuff your shoes with paper towels or newspaper to help them retain their shape as they dry. Place them in a well-ventilated area and let them air dry. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near a heater as this can cause the canvas to shrink.

That’s all there is to it! Using this simple method, you can keep your canvas shoes looking clean and fresh.