Canvas shoes are the ultimate choice when it comes to kids' footwear: stylish, comfortable, and affordable. However, these shoes for girls and boys tend to get dirty more easily, especially when kids are involved. On the bright side, they also dry faster than other materials. So, what's the best way to clean them? by hand or in the washing machine?
Best tips for cleaning canvas shoes
Follow our quick and easy guide to restore your shoes to their original state:
- Shake the sneakers in case any dirt remains.
- Use a soft bristle brush to remove sand, dust and other debris.
- Clean them with a sponge or brush dipped in a mixture of wáter, neutral soap and baking soda. Clean in a circular motion over the stains. Wipe over the mixture with a clean dry cloth to finish.
- Do not forget to put newspaper inside the shoe to absorb the moisture and maintain their shape.
- Leave them in the shade so they get dry and do not lose the color in the sun.
And that´s it! Now you have your new canvas shoes, impeccable as the first day.
You can also get some specific product for the maintenance of the sneakers and delay in some way the first wash for longer.
How to Clean White Canvas Shoes
White canvas shoes are a timeless classic, but they're also the most likely to get dirty. Here’s how to restore their original brightness:
1. Materials required
- Mild soap or gentle detergent: Its delicate formula ensures the fabric stays intact while maintaining its bright white color.
- An old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush: Ideal for gently scrubbing away stains without using harsh chemicals.
- Baking soda and white vinegar (optional for stubborn stains): Natural ingredients perfect for tackling tough spots.
- A clean cloth and lukewarm water: For rinsing off soap residue and ensuring no stiffness is left in the fabric.
2. Step-by-Step Cleaning
- Remove surface dirt: Use a dry brush to get rid of dust and debris. This prevents particles from mixing with water during cleaning.
- Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix lukewarm water with a few drops of mild soap in a container. For tough stains, add a teaspoon of baking soda and a splash of white vinegar.
- Gently scrub: Use the brush to clean the dirty areas, applying light pressure to avoid damaging the fabric. Move in circular motions and cover the entire surface.
- Rinse with a damp cloth: Wet a cloth with clean water and wipe the shoes to remove soap and residue.
- Dry properly: Place the shoes in a ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Stuff them with paper towels to maintain their shape as they dry.
Pro Tip: Keep your white canvas shoes looking fresh for longer by using a water-repellent spray. It creates an invisible barrier that protects against stains and moisture. Spray evenly from 20 cm away and let dry completely before wearing.
How to Clean Colored Canvas Shoes
Colored canvas shoes are perfect for adding a playful touch to kids' outfits, but they need special care to keep their colors vibrant and prevent fading.
1. Materials required
- Gentle detergent for colored fabrics.
- Cold or lukewarm water.
- A soft brush.
- A clean cloth.
2. Step-by-Step Cleaning
- Remove dust and dirt: Use a dry brush to clean off surface dirt. This step prevents stains from bleeding into the water.
- Wash gently: Mix cold or lukewarm water with a gentle detergent. Use the brush to clean the fabric with soft strokes, avoiding areas prone to color bleeding.
- Rinse carefully: Use a damp cloth to remove soap residue. Avoid soaking the shoes in water to protect the colors.
- Dry in a ventilated area: Let the shoes air-dry in a well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight, as this can fade the colors.
Pro Tip: To keep the colors vibrant, use a fabric protector designed for colored materials. Test it on a small, hidden area before applying it to the entire shoe to ensure it won’t alter the fabric's tone.
How to Dry-Clean Canvas Shoes
Sometimes, water-based cleaning isn’t necessary or practical, especially if the shoes only have light dust or mild stains. Here’s how to effectively dry-clean canvas shoes:
1. Materials required
- A soft-bristle brush to remove loose dirt before applying the cleaner.
- Dry foam or fabric spray cleaner, specially formulated for canvas.
- A dry cloth.
2. Step-by-Step Cleaning
- Brush off dirt: Use a dry brush to remove any dust or debris from the surface.
- Apply foam or spray cleaner: Follow the product’s instructions, typically letting it sit for a few minutes.
- Wipe with a dry cloth: Rub the surface with a clean cloth to remove the cleaner and any remaining dirt.
3. Benefits of Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is perfect for maintaining shoes between deep washes.
- Quick and convenient: Great for immediate results without waiting for the shoes to dry.
- Maintains shoe shape: Avoids water-related deformations.
- Ideal for regular maintenance: Keeps shoes looking fresh with minimal effort.
Pro Tip: Keeping your canvas shoes clean and well-maintained not only enhances their appearance but also ensures they stay comfortable and durable. With these tailored techniques for white, colored, or dry-cleaning methods, you can keep your kids' shoes in great shape with ease. Regular cleaning and the use of protective products are key to extending their lifespan.
At Conguitos, we understand that quality and style are essential for kids. That’s why we design footwear that’s comfortable, durable, and easy to care for. Now that you know all our cleaning tips, visit our online store to explore our wide range of shoes for boys and girls!
