How to Clean Canvas Shoes? | Step-by-Step Guide (Explained)

Just like everything shoes need proper care and maintenance, and to maintain the proper quality of your loved-one shoes you need to clean them carefully because sneakers start losing their comfort over time when not maintained properly. So, you should know how to clean canvas shoes at home.

We are always told by our grandparents or parents that old things are more comfortable than new whether they’re footwear or clothes.

So, why don’t we clean them in the way that they must be?

Let’s start,

shoe clean

In this comprehensive article, I am going to show you how to clean canvas shoes at home.

Shoes which are made of canvas are so comfortable and long-lasting. Apart from the so many advantages of canvas shoes.

It has one disadvantage of sticking dirt, scuff marks and stains after a while. Don’t worry!  With the proper cleaning, you can help yourself with this problem.

Things You’ll Need to Clean Canvas Shoes:

  • A small bowl
  • 30-40 ml laundry detergent Or one scoop of washing powder
  • Scrubbing brush or old toothbrush
  • Nylon bristle brush
  • Clean, damp small towel Or paper cloth
  • Some Newspaper
  • Warm Water

Remember one thing, Canvas is made of hemp. So, it must be cleaned gently with the soft nylon brush as mentioned above. Don’t pick the easy option of cleaning your shoes in the washing machine.

Previously, you might have been successful in cleaning your casual shoes in the washing machine but it would really cost your pocket after a few washes because it can fade your shoe colours, and can weaken the glue which keeps them strong and long-lasting.

If the sole of your sneakers is separated then bond them with the shoe glue- they are really good adhesive and your sneakers will not lose bond.

You might also clean your white canvas sneakers with toothpaste but try our fully researched and experienced method. Really, You won’t be cleaning your expensive sneakers with toothpaste, baking soda etc…

We are here to guide you on how to clean canvas sneakers so that your shoes can last you as long as possible.

If you need some of the best casual footwear then read our Casual shoes buying guide – things to consider before buying casual shoes.

Want your old shoes to be looked new?  – See how you can make it.

Video on how to clean canvas shoes at home (process explained)


5 Steps on How To Clean Canvas Shoes at Home

Step 1: Remove Hard Dirt

dirty shoes

If your shoes are carrying some hard dirt then tap the sneakers at each other on a newspaper if still remaining then clean with the damp paper.

Then remove the laces and take a toothbrush and brush inside the sole to remove sticky dirt. Once you are done go next step.

Step 2: Take Your Favorite Casual Shoes to a Bath

Take a bowl and fill that with the warm water and add 30-40ml of laundry detergent instead of this you can also add one scoop of washing powder.

Now start scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush (a toothbrush will also work) scrubbing the brush in the upper of the canvas shoe first. Generally, focus on the upper and inside & leave rest for later.

It’s really important to scrub the shoes until it bubbles up because it helps remove the dirt.

Now, comes the midsole – Which is similar to brushing the teeth. First, take a toothbrush and dip it into washing powder and scrub until it becomes whiter again.

Step 3: Wash and Rinse

The next step is to Rinse with Clean water and if still remained some scuff marks then scrub them with a nylon pad. it will definitely remove the scuff.

Once all that is finished, Clean them with a towel or white paper.

And grab some newspaper make some balls of newspaper and stuff them into the toe box to get rid of any wrinkles and to absorb any water that’s on inside and would also help to maintain their shape too.

Note: Do not use newspaper or any coloured paper if your sneakers are of white colour. Ink can transfer to your shoes and discolour your shoes.

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Laces

And last but definitely not least.

Now it’s time to clean shoelaces. Soak them in the detergent & water that will help them to remove all the dirt and also scrub with your hands you can also take some soap to help you to fasten this process.

Step 5: Dry Your Canvas Shoes Correctly

how to dry your casual shoes

And don’t just dry your casual shoe in sunlight, or by the heater, just let it dry by air. Direct exposure to heat can damage canvas fabric.

It takes some time to dry up completely. If you keep them under a fan it will take a night only.

And after your canvas shoes are completely dry insert the laces and insoles. If your shoes are white in colour. I would suggest you use white liquid polish to maintain the shine of your shoes.


Wrapping Up on cleaning canvas shoes at home

Now, Guys, we have ended up with this detailed article on “how to clean canvas shoes”. I hope you liked this article and helped you to make your shoes like new. Just do one thing comment below and tell us about your experience while cleaning your shoes and don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family members.

Now, Wear your fresh sneakers and go out with a SMILE.

And If you have any confusion regarding your shoe material and want some other shoe care instructions then go to the manufacturer’s site and read the care instructions or either you can call them.

I am the founder and chief editor of Men Shoe Factory, a passionate shoe lover from India. Studying and researching on shoes led me to build this blog site where I share shoe care tips, detailed reviews and different types of shoe size charts. Feel free to contact me on my social accounts or through the contact form here.

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