Looking to keep your Vans looking fresh and clean? As a daily wearer of these shoes, you know how easily they can get dirty, scuffed, and stained. But can you wash the Vans in the washer? It’s a common question among Vans owners, and the answer is complex and depends on various factors.
Cleaning Vans shoes can be daunting, especially if you need help with how to do it properly. You want to maintain your favorite pair of shoes using the right cleaning method.
In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean your Vans shoes safely. We will cover various cleaning methods, such as how to clean suede Vans, leather Vans, and canvas and synthetic Vans.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your Vans looking fresh and clean for longer.
Read on to learn more.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can wash Vans in the washer, but it depends on the type of Vans you have and the specific washing instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- To safely clean your Vans shoes, remove all laces and inserts, place the shoes in a bag, use a detergent for sneakers, and wash in cold water on a gentle cycle—Air-dry your shoes.
- Use a baking soda paste and mild detergent to bleach the white strip on your Vans. For suede Vans, use a suede brush and eraser. For leather Vans, use a leather cleaner and conditioner. For canvas and synthetic Vans, use water and mild detergent to clean.
Table of Contents
Can You Wash The Vans In The Washer?
If you’re a fan of Vans shoes, you know how quickly they can get dirty and scuffed. But can you wash them in the washer? The answer is yes but with some caveats.
First, not all types of Vans shoes are suitable for machine washing. Canvas and synthetic Vans shoes can be washed in the washer, but suede and leather Vans shoes should not be washed in the washer, as they can get damaged by water and detergent.
While washing Vans shoes in the washer can be a convenient way to keep them clean, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks.
Depending on the type of shoes and the washing conditions, the shoes may fade, shrink, or lose shape. So, proceed with caution and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Related: Can you wash ugg slippers?
How To Safely Clean The Vans Shoes?
If you want to keep your Vans shoes in good condition, cleaning them regularly is important. Hand washing is the preferred method for cleaning Vans shoes, as it is more gentle and thorough than machine washing.
Here’s a general overview of the steps for hand washing Vans shoes, regardless of the material:
Step 1: Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes.
Step 2: Brush off loose dirt or dust from the shoes with a soft-bristled brush.
Step 3: Spot-treat any stains with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water.
Step 4: Fill a bucket or a sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
Step 5: Submerge the shoes in the water and gently scrub them with a cloth or a brush.
Step 6: Rinse the shoes with clean water and squeeze out excess water.
Step 7: Wrap the shoes in a towel and press them to remove more water.
Step 8: Air dry the shoes away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Depending on the material, different Vans shoes may require specific steps or products for hand washing.
Related: Can you wash Converse shoes?
How To Bleach The White Strip Of The Vans Shoes
Over time, the white strip of your Vans shoes may start to look dirty or yellow, which can affect the overall appearance of the shoes. Luckily, there are household products you can use to whiten the white strip of your Vans shoes.
Before you start, it’s important to protect the upper part of your shoes from bleach by covering them with tape or plastic wrap.
To bleach the white strip of your Vans shoes, you will need to mix one part bleach with five parts water in a small container. Then, dip a cotton swab or a toothbrush in the bleach solution and apply it to the white strip of the shoes.
Let the bleach solution sit for 10 minutes or until the white strip is brightened. Rinse the white strip with water and wipe it with a clean cloth. Repeat if necessary until the desired result is achieved.
If you don’t have bleach on hand, you can also use hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar to whiten the white strip of your Vans shoes. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar with water and apply it to the white strip of the shoes using a cotton swab or toothbrush.
You can also try using a magic eraser or acetone to remove any stubborn stains on the white strip of your Vans shoes. Just be sure to test these products on a small, inconspicuous area of the shoes first to ensure they don’t cause any damage.
Overall, with a little effort, you can keep the white strip of your Vans shoes looking bright and clean for years to come.
How To Clean Suede Vans
Suede Vans are a stylish and comfortable choice for footwear, but they require special care to keep them looking their best. Unlike other Vans shoes, suede Vans are more delicate and prone to damage, so cleaning them properly is important.
To start, use a suede brush or a nail file to remove any dirt or scuffs from the suede surface. Be gentle and avoid too much pressure, which can damage the suede. Brush in one direction to maintain the suede’s texture.
Next, gently use a suede cleaner or mild soap to clean any stains or spots on the suede surface. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and rub it onto the affected area in a circular motion. Avoid using too much water, as this can damage the suede.
Once you have cleaned the suede, let it dry naturally, away from heat sources or direct sunlight. Do not use a hairdryer or any other heat source to speed up the drying process, as this can cause the suede to shrink or become discolored.
To prevent future stains or damage, use a suede protector or a water-repellent spray to coat the suede surface. Apply the protector evenly, following the instructions on the product label. This will help repel water and other liquids, keeping your suede Vans clean and fresh.
Here are some additional tips and tricks for maintaining suede Vans:
- Avoid getting suede Vans wet or exposing them to heat or sunlight.
- Store suede Vans in a cool, dry place with shoe trees or paper inside to keep their shape.
- Brush suede Vans regularly to keep them soft and smooth.
How To Clean Leather Vans
Leather Vans are more durable and resistant than other Vans shoes but need proper care and conditioning. If you want to keep your leather Vans looking great for years to come, you need to know how to clean them properly.
To clean leather Vans, you will need suitable products and tools. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Use a leather cleaner or mild soap to wipe any dirt or stains from the leather surface with a damp cloth. Avoid using too much water, as it can damage the leather.
Step 2: Use a leather conditioner or a moisturizer to restore the shine and softness of the leather surface with a dry cloth. Apply the conditioner evenly and let it absorb into the leather for a few minutes.
Step 3: Use a leather polish or wax to buff the leather surface and create a protective layer with a soft brush. This will help protect the leather from water and other elements.
Here are some tips and tricks for maintaining leather Vans:
- Avoid getting leather Vans wet or exposing them to heat or sunlight.
- Store leather Vans in a cool and dry place with shoe trees or paper inside to keep their shape.
- Polish leather Vans occasionally to keep them shiny and smooth.
How To Clean Canvas & Synthetic Vans
Canvas and synthetic Vans are popular choices for their flexibility and breathability. However, they are also more prone to fading and shrinking. So, cleaning them properly is important to maintain their appearance and quality.
You will need common products and tools to clean your canvas and synthetic Vans. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you:
Step 1: Pre-treat any stains or spots on the canvas or synthetic surface with a stain remover or a baking soda paste. Apply the product directly to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
Step 2: Wash the canvas or synthetic surface with warm water and a mild detergent or vinegar solution. Use a cloth or a soft-bristled brush to scrub the surface gently. Avoid using hot water or bleach, as they can damage the material.
Step 3: Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Step 4: Soften the canvas or synthetic surface using a fabric softener or a dryer sheet. This will also help prevent static electricity.
Step 5: Air dry your canvas or synthetic Vans away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will prevent the material from shrinking or fading.
Step 6: Reshape your canvas or synthetic Vans while they are still damp. Stuff them with paper or use shoe trees to help them retain their shape.
Some additional tips and tricks for maintaining your canvas and synthetic Vans include:
- Avoid washing them too often, as it can damage the material and cause them to lose shape.
- Use a synthetic brush to remove any loose dirt or debris before washing.
- Use Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel to clean and waterproof your Vans.
- Store your Vans in a cool and dry place to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Frequently Asked Question
Do Vans shrink after washing?
Vans can shrink after washing if exposed to hot water or high heat. This can cause the canvas or synthetic material to contract and lose shape. To prevent this, gently wash your Vans in cold water and air dry them away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
How do you wash Vans in a laundry machine?
Remove the laces and insoles—pre-treat stains. Wash in a mesh bag with cold water and mild detergent. Press out excess water with a towel and air dry away from heat and direct sunlight.
Why do Vans fall apart so quickly?
Vans can fall apart quickly due to improper vulcanization, causing the rubber strip to become loose or fall off or due to excessive wear and tear from activities like skateboarding.
Why are my Vans turning yellow after washing?
Washing your Vans with bleach or other harsh chemicals and then exposing them to sunlight or air can cause oxidation, which turns the white canvas or rubber yellow or brown over time. Additionally, sweat, dirt, and stains that penetrate the fabric can cause yellowing and are difficult to remove.
How do I wash my Vans insoles?
To clean Vans insoles, remove and sprinkle with baking soda. Scrub with a toothbrush and mild detergent, rinse, squeeze out excess water, and air-dry.
