As a daily user of Converse shoes, you may wonder: can you wash Converse shoes? The answer is yes, you can wash Converse shoes. However, it’s important to know how to do it to avoid damaging your shoes.
In this article, we will provide a brief overview of how to wash Converse shoes, including whether you can put them in the washing machine, get them white again, and clean black Converse without fading.
We will also share tips and tricks to keep your Converse shoes looking their best.
Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can wash Converse shoes, but knowing how to avoid damaging them is important.
- Hand washing is the best method for cleaning Converse shoes, but you can also use the washing machine on a gentle cycle.
- To keep your Converse shoes looking their best, avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, and always air dry them.
Table of Contents
Can You Wash Converse Shoes?
Are your favorite Converse sneakers looking a little worse for wear? Can you wash them and bring them back to life? The answer is yes, you can wash Converse shoes. However, the method you use will depend on the material of your shoes and the level of dirtiness.
Canvas Converse shoes are the easiest to clean. You can either hand wash them or throw them in the washing machine. If you wash them by hand, fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a mild detergent or soap.
Gently rub the shoes with a soft-bristled brush or cloth, paying extra attention to the dirtiest areas. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry.
If you prefer a washing machine, remove the laces and put them in a separate bag or wash them separately. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Once the cycle is finished, let the shoe air dry.
Leather Converse sneakers require more care. You should avoid putting them in the washing machine, which can cause the leather to warp or shrink. Instead, use a damp cloth and a mild soap to wipe away dirt or stains. Avoid using too much water, as this can damage the leather. Once you’ve cleaned the shoes, let them air dry away from direct sunlight or heat.
While washing your Converse shoes can help extend their lifespan, it’s important to know the potential risks. Depending on the material and the washing method, your shoes may shrink, fade, warp, or even fall at the seams.
Related: Can you wash Hoka shoes?
How to Wash Converse Shoes?
Converse shoes are a timeless classic but can get dirty and messy over time. Fortunately, washing your Converse shoes is a simple process that can restore them to their original glory.
This section will provide step-by-step guides on washing Converse shoes by hand, with a magic eraser or toothpaste, and with bleach.
Washing Converse Shoes by Hand
If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective way to clean your Converse shoes, washing them by hand is the way to go. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Remove the laces and insoles from your shoes. This will make cleaning every nook and cranny of your shoes easier.
Step 2: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add mild soap.
Step 3: Dip a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled brush into the soapy water and scrub your shoes’ canvas and rubber parts. Use a toothbrush to clean any tough stains or crevices.
Step 4: Rinse your shoes thoroughly with warm water to remove excess dirt or soap.
Step 5: Stuff your shoes with paper towels to help them retain shape and absorb excess water. Avoid using direct heat or sunlight to dry your shoes, which can damage the canvas and rubber parts.
Washing Converse Shoes with a Magic Eraser or Toothpaste
A magic eraser or toothpaste can be an effective cleaning solution for tougher stains and scuffs. Here’s how to use them:
Step 1: Wet and squeeze the magic eraser or toothbrush to create a lather.
Step 2: Scrub the exterior of your shoes with the magic eraser or toothbrush, focusing on the areas with tough stains or scuff marks.
Step 3: Wipe your shoes with a clean cloth to remove excess dirt or soap.
Step 4: Let your shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Washing Converse Shoes with Bleach
Bleach can be used to clean your Converse shoes in extreme cases of dirtiness or discoloration. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Dilute bleach with water in a basin or sink. Use a ratio of 1 part bleach to 5 parts water.
Step 2: Soak your shoes in the diluted bleach for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse your shoes thoroughly with cold water to remove any excess bleach.
Step 4: Let your shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Remember to always spot-clean your Converse shoes as soon as possible to prevent stains from setting in. Use a melamine sponge or Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to remove scuffs and stains quickly and easily.
For white Converse sneakers, mix baking soda with water to create a paste, and scrub the shoes with a toothbrush. Mix white vinegar with cold water for black Converse sneakers and scrub the shoes with a soft-bristled brush.
Can I Put My Converse in the Washing Machine?
If you’re wondering whether you can wash your Converse shoes in the washing machine, you can! However, there are a few things to remember before tossing them in.
Firstly, ensure your Converse shoes are made from canvas or other natural materials. Leather or suede Converse shoes should not be washed in the washing machine as they may get damaged.
When washing your Converse shoes in the washing machine, using a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent is important. This will help prevent any damage to the shoes while keeping them clean.
To prevent any damage to the shoes during the wash, putting them inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase is recommended. This will help keep the shoes protected while allowing them to get clean.
Before washing your Converse shoes, remove the laces and insoles. You can wash the laces separately in a mesh bag or by hand. Turning the shoes inside out will also help prevent any damage to the outer layer of the shoes.
Add a cup of white vinegar to the wash for extra disinfecting power. This will help kill any bacteria and remove any odors from the shoes.
After washing your Converse shoes, stuff them with paper towels to help them keep their shape and let them air dry. Avoid using the dryer as it can damage the shoes.
It’s important to note that washing your Converse shoes in the washing machine can have some risks. The glue holding the shoes together may loosen, and the rubber parts may get damaged.
Additionally, there is a risk of color bleeding, so it’s best to avoid washing different colored shoes together.
How Do I Get My Converse White Again?
White Converse shoes get dirty and dingy over time and need special care to restore brightness. Here are some methods to get your Converse white again:
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are an effective combination for cleaning white Converse sneakers. Here’s how to make a cleaning solution:
- Mix one tablespoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of white vinegar in a bowl.
- Add a little bit of water to create a paste.
- Dip an old toothbrush into the mixture and scrub the shoes in circular motions.
- Rinse the shoes with cold water.
- Let them air dry.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Another way to clean white Converse sneakers is baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Here’s how to make a cleaning solution:
- Mix one tablespoon baking soda and one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in a bowl.
- Add a little bit of water to create a paste.
- Dip an old toothbrush into the mixture and scrub the shoes in circular motions.
- Rinse the shoes with cold water.
- Let them air dry.
Acetone (Nail Polish Remover)
Acetone is a powerful solvent that can remove stains from white Converse sneakers. Here’s how to use it:
- Put on gloves to protect your hands.
- Dip a cloth into acetone and rub it onto the shoes.
- Rinse the shoes with cold water.
- Let them air dry.
Alternative Methods
Here are some alternative methods for getting white Converse shoes white again:
- Lemon Juice: Apply lemon juice with a spray bottle or a cloth, leave it in the sun for an hour, and rinse it off.
- Bleach: Mix bleach with water and use a sponge or brush to soak the shoes for 15 minutes. Rinse them thoroughly.
- Whitening Toothpaste: Rub whitening toothpaste onto the shoes in circular motions with a toothbrush or cloth and wipe it off with a damp cloth.
Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous shoe area first, and avoid using bleach on colored Converse sneakers.
How Do You Clean Black Converse Without Them Fading?
Black Converse shoes are a classic wardrobe staple that can be worn with almost anything. However, if you’re not careful, they can fade or lose color if washed too often or with harsh chemicals. Here’s how to clean your black Converse shoes without them fading.
Step 1: Remove the Laces
The first step in cleaning your black Converse shoes is to remove the laces. This will make it easier to clean the entire shoe and prevent the laces from getting tangled or damaged during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Create a Cleaning Solution
Next, create a cleaning solution by mixing a small amount of mild detergent with cold water. Be sure to use a gentle detergent that won’t damage the fabric or cause the shoes to fade.
Step 3: Scrub Gently with a Microfiber Cloth or Toothbrush
Using a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the shoes with the cleaning solution. Be sure to focus on any areas that are particularly dirty or stained.
Step 4: Rinse Under Cold Running Water
Once you’ve finished scrubbing the shoes, rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This will help to remove any remaining dirt or soap residue.
Step 5: Apply Black Fabric Dye (Optional)
If your black Converse shoes are particularly faded or worn, you may consider applying black fabric dye to restore their color. To do this, mix the dye with water according to the instructions on the package and apply it evenly to the shoes with a sponge or brush. Be sure to let the shoes dry naturally before wearing them again.
Alternative Methods for Restoring Black Converse Shoes
If you don’t have black fabric dye, you can try a few other methods to restore your black Converse shoes without fading.
These include using a black permanent marker to fill in any faded areas or scuffs, black shoe polish to restore color and shine, or black spray paint to give the shoes a fresh coat of color.
No matter which method you choose, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the shoe first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration. You can keep your black Converse shoes looking great for years with a little care and attention.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, you can wash Converse shoes but you must be careful. Canvas Converse shoes can be washed by hand or in the washing machine, while leather.
Converse sneakers should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Always check the care label and test a small area first to avoid damaging your shoes.
Happy washing!
Frequently Asked Question
How often should I wash my Converse shoes?
To keep your Converse shoes in good shape, wash them once every few months or when they look visibly dirty. Washing them too frequently can damage them.
How can I prevent my Converse shoes from getting dirty in the first place?
To keep your Converse shoes clean, avoid wearing them in dirty environments, apply a protective spray, and wipe with a damp cloth after each use.
What should I do if my Converse shoes get wet?
To keep your Converse shoes in good condition, dry them promptly if they get wet. Use paper towels or newspapers to absorb moisture, stuff them inside the shoes to retain shape, and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight.
Can I wash my Converse shoes with other clothes or shoes?
Wash your Converse shoes separately in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or dryer as they can harm your shoes.
How can I make my Converse shoes more comfortable?
To make your Converse shoes comfortable, try breaking them in by wearing them around the house with thick socks, stretch them out by filling them with water and freezing them overnight, replace the insoles with cushioned ones, or use moleskin patches or band-aids on areas that rub or chafe.
