A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Vans Shoes

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The safest ways to clean classic canvas, leather, or suede Vans
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Vans make a variety of primarily white-soled canvas skate-shoes, which look best when they look fresh and clean. If you want to get your Vans looking new again, we’ve got you covered. In this article we’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to clean Vans, including canvas, suede, and leather materials. Plus, learn how to bleach the rubber strips, whether you can put Vans in the washing machine, and get expert advice from shoe care specialist Marc Sigal.

How to Wash Vans Shoes

To clean your Vans, scrub them with a mild detergent and warm water using a soft brush, then let them air dry. For suede and leather vans, use suede and leather cleaners according to their instructions. Using the washing machine isn't recommended since it can potentially damage your Vans.

Section 1 of 7:

How to Clean Canvas Vans

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Vans
    If your canvas Vans are really dirty, take them outside and shake off any excess dirt. Then use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off as much as you can. This will make the rest of the cleaning process easier, as your shoes won’t get as muddy when you wet them. [1]
    • If your shoes are muddy, let them dry thoroughly before brushing them off. It'll be easier that way.
    • Scrub the shoes with a toothbrush or a soft shoe brush to brush away caked on dirt. Hit the soles of the shoes together to knock away any small particles of dust and dirt.
    • Make sure to brush the dirt off of the rubber strips and bottoms of your shoes, as well.
  2. If you know certain spots on your Vans will be difficult to clean, spot-clean them with stain remover . Follow the remover’s instructions to apply it directly to the stains. Let the shoes sit for at least 15 minutes before continuing. [2]
    • Not all stain removers are color-safe. If you have colored Vans, choose an oxygen-based formula. These contain hydrogen peroxide, which is a color-safe bleach. [3]
    • The stain remover’s package should state if it’s oxygen-based and color-safe, but if it doesn’t, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the shoe.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Vans
    Fill a bucket halfway full with warm water and 1 or 2 tbsp (15 to 30 ml) of a mild detergent, like dish soap. Swish it until suds form, then dip a toothbrush or shoe brush into the mixture. Hold the shoe in one hand and work the brush back and forth across the surface with the other. Be sure to scrub the top, sides, and rubber strip of the shoe. [4]
    • If you need to deep clean your Vans, it may be helpful to remove the laces and insole so you can scrub the surface more deeply. Dip the surface lightly in the water and brush hard to clean the bottom of the shoe.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Vans
    After you've scrubbed the shoes thoroughly, give them a quick rinse with fresh warm water or wipe them with a clean, damp cloth. Examine the shoe to make sure all the stains are gone. If there are still dirty spots, repeat the process until you’re satisfied. [5]
  5. Lay your wet Vans on a clean towel and wrap them in it. Sigal says microfiber towels work great. [6] Press the excess water out of each shoe, then leave them to air dry. If your vans are colored, keep them out of direct sunlight so the color doesn’t fade. It may take up to 24 hours for the shoes to dry completely. [7]
    • If your shoes are white, it’s okay to place them in direct sunlight. It may bleach them slightly to make them look even whiter.
    • Stuff your Vans with hand towels, paper towels, or newspaper to absorb water. This helps avoid shrinkage and those dark lines in the places where the Vans bend when you’re walking.
    • Don’t place your Vans in the dryer as this could damage them. Air drying is best.
    • Sigal recommends keeping your shoes in a “dry, ventilated area with a fan” until they dry out. [8]
  6. While the Vans brand doesn’t recommend it, many wearers have found success washing their canvas Vans in the washing machine. Pre-treat the shoes with a stain remover, then place them in a pillowcase and run them through the washer on the gentlest and coolest settings. The pillowcase helps protect them from damage. Use half the amount of detergent as you normally would and air dry the shoes when they’re done. [9]
    • Placing your Vans in a pillowcase and washing them with other soiled items, like bath towels or small rugs, helps keep the shoes padded and prevents them from bouncing around as much.
    • If you're concerned about the liners or inserts in your Vans, it's usually best to remove them entirely from the shoe and replace after washing, or replace with new inserts.
    • To cut down on the amount of time you soak the shoes, wait until the load is half-full, if you're using a top-loading washing machine. The shoes will still get plenty clean, but won't sit for quite so long.
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Section 2 of 7:

How to Clean Suede Vans

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  1. If your suede Vans have caked-on dirt, use a soft-bristled suede brush to remove it. Brush the top, sides, and bottom of each shoe to ensure you remove as much dirt as possible. This will prevent the dirt from turning into mud, which will make it more difficult to clean your shoes. [10]
  2. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and dip your cleaning cloth into the mixture. Gently blot any stains, being careful not to saturate the whole shoe. If your shoes aren’t too stained, this should be enough to clean the suede. [11]
  3. If your Vans are really stained and dirty, water and vinegar might not be enough. In this case, squeeze a small amount of suede cleaner onto a toothbrush and scrub the affected areas. Then, let the cleaner soak into the stains to remove them. [12]
  4. If the white strip on your Vans is also dirty, scrub it with a magic eraser . If it’s particularly dirty, try using a scrubbing brush and clean it with soap and water. Soap and water also works well for the bottom of your shoe. [14]
  5. Sigal says to never put suede shoes in the dryer, as “that will definitely ruin them.” [15] Set your Vans aside to dry. Keep them out of direct sunlight so the color doesn’t fade. Once they’re completely dry, check to see if there are any dirty spots you missed. If there are, repeat the cleaning process until you’re satisfied. [16]
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Section 3 of 7:

How to Clean Leather Vans

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  1. Scrub the top, sides, and bottom of your leather Vans with a shoe brush to remove excess dirt. It may help to do this outside so you don’t have to clean up extra dirt. Remove as much dirt and grime as possible to make the rest of the cleaning process easier. [18]
  2. Since excess water damages leather, don’t clean leather shoes with soap and water the way you would with other types of shoes. Instead, apply a footwear cleaning gel with a synthetic brush. Scrub the entire surface, paying special attention to any stubborn areas. [19]
    • To remove the gel, wipe the shoe with a damp cloth. A little water is okay, just make sure the shoe doesn’t get saturated and that it dries properly.
    • Depending on how dirty your shoes are, you may need to repeat the process a few times.
    • Sigal says, “You can use any sort of brush, like a soft bristle brush for leather, or even just a microfiber towel. Apply a little leather cleanser to the soft bristle brush or microfiber towel and then wipe the surface of the shoe.” [20]
  3. Once your shoes are clean, spray the leather and stitching with a leather waterproofing spray . The spray will keep the leather from cracking or peeling, and it also makes it easier to wipe dirt away. [21]
    • If you’re just looking for a quick clean, it’s okay to skip this step.
  4. Putting leather shoes in the dryer will damage them, so let your shoes air dry naturally. Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading or damage. It may take up to 24 hours for your Vans to dry completely. [22]
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Section 4 of 7:

Can you wash Vans in a washer and dryer?

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  1. Doing this may damage the shoes. [24] Many wearers have successfully washed their canvas Vans in the washer, however, so it is technically possible if you’re willing to risk it. Leather and suede vans would get ruined in the wash, though, so never put them in the washing machine. [25]
    • If you’re not sure what material your Vans are, check the shoe’s tag. Only canvas or synthetic materials can go in the washer.
    • If you do put your Vans in the washer, place them in a pillowcase or bag and wash them with other items to keep them from bouncing around as much. Be sure to run the washer on the coolest and gentlest settings, as well.
    • In general, it’s best not to wash shoes in the washing machine more than once every 6 months or so, or you’ll risk damaging the shoes.
  2. Drying suede or leather shoes in the dryer could cause them to shrink, and canvas can dry out and crack along the seams. It’s best to let your Vans air dry. [26]
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Section 5 of 7:

How to Bleach the White Strip

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  1. It's common to want the white, rubbery sole on Vans to look crisp and new, so it might take a little extra effort and supplies to get that fresh out-of-the-box look back. To clean the whites of your Vans, use a common household ingredient, like: [27]
    • Bleach
    • Liquid nail polish remover (acetone)
    • Rubbing alcohol
    • Window cleaner
    • Magic eraser
    • Hydrogen peroxide
    • Baking soda and water
    • Lemon juice
    • This works for other canvas-style shoes, as well, like Toms or Keds.
    • Do not mix chemicals, especially bleach.
  2. Set out your shoes and cleaning product on a clean towel. If you're going to work inside with bleach, or another cleaning product with the potential for staining, make sure you've got plenty of cover down. It may help to wear gloves to protect your hands, as well. [28]
    • Preferably, apply stronger cleaners like acetone or bleach outside. If that isn’t possible, work in a well-ventilated area.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Vans
    Tape over the canvas, suede, or leather of your Vans to avoid damaging the top or sides of the shoe. This is particularly important if you’re using a strong cleaner, like bleach, that could cause discoloration. [29]
    • Some people also like the look of bleach-splattered Vans, so if that’s something you’re interested in, don’t cover the shoe’s surface.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Vans
    Put a small amount of cleaner on your toothbrush, or soft-bristled cleaning brush, then firmly buff the sole to clean the rubber . Work in circles and apply more cleaner as needed. Scrub around the outside of the shoes, as well as the bottoms if you want. [30]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Vans
    When you’ve successfully cleaned the white strip on both shoes, wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth. Your shoes’ strips should be bright white now. If they’re not, repeat the cleaning process or try again later with a different cleaner. [31]
    • If you decide to try a different cleaner, wait until the shoes are entirely dry so you don’t accidentally mix cleaners.
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Section 6 of 7:

Cleaning the Inside of Your Vans

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  1. Mix baking soda and a mild detergent until it forms a paste. Work the mixture into your Vans using a small cleaning brush or toothbrush. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Let the shoes air dry. [32]
    • Other ways to clean the inside of shoes include sprinkling them with baking soda, spraying them with water and vinegar, or airing them out in the sun.
Section 7 of 7:

Cleaning the Laces of Your Vans

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  1. Remove your shoelaces and place them in a bowl of warm water. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap and mix it into the water until suds form. Let the shoelaces sit for about 15 minutes. If they’re particularly dirty, it may help to scrub them with a toothbrush or your fingers. Once they’re clean, rinse them in fresh water and let them air dry. [33]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you clean white Vans without peroxide?
    Marc Sigal
    Shoe Care Specialist
    Marc Sigal is a Shoe Care Specialist based in Los Angeles. Marc has over 19 years of experience working in the world of e-commerce, with extensive experience with the care of luxury goods. He is currently the VP of Strategic Partnerships at Blutag, an e-commerce platform helping consumers find products. Prior to Blutag, he founded ButlerBox, a dry cleaning and shoe care service based in Los Angeles, California. ButlerBox reinvented amenity services by placing custom-designed, wrinkle-resistant lockers in luxury apartment buildings, class A office buildings, shopping centers, and other convenient locations. The company got acquired by Rinse.com in 2021. Marc has a BA in Global and International Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
    Marc Sigal
    Shoe Care Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Use an old toothbrush and some lukewarm soapy water. Dip the toothbrush in the soapy water and scrub your vans with it. Blot your shoes with a towel to remove the suds, then let them air dry.
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  • Question
    Can I put my slip on vans in the washing machine?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Certainly, you can wash canvas slip-on Vans in the washing machine. As with any canvas shoe, use the low or gentle machine wash cycle and cold water only. It can be helpful to place the shoes inside a laundry wash bag suitable to the size of the shoes, to help stop them from flying around too much; or toss in a few towels to give the shoes some padding to hit against. Air dry only, as the dryer can damage canvas shoes.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    How do you clean canvas sneakers?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    You can wash canvas sneakers in the washing machine or by hand. If you have stains or scuff marks on the sneakers that need cleaning, you’ll find several helpful cleaning methods in How to Clean Canvas Sneakers.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Don't use a direct heat source, like a hair dryer, to speed up the drying process, as this can damage the shoes.
      • To tackle odor, sprinkle baking soda inside your Vans overnight and shake it out in the morning.
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      • Toothbrush/shoe brush
      • Water
      • Stain treater
      • Sunlight
      • Bucket
      • Dye-free bleach
      • Towel
      • Medium to large soft brush

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/how-to-clean-white-shoes
      2. ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clothes/stain-removal-guide
      3. ↑ https://www.stain-removal-101.com/hydrogen-peroxide-for-laundry.html
      4. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/clothing-care/learn-how-to-clean-your-vans-shoes.html
      5. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      6. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      7. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/how-to-clean-white-shoes
      8. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      9. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/clothing-care/learn-how-to-clean-your-vans-shoes.html
      1. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-clean-suede-boots-shoes-jackets-and-accessories.html
      2. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-clean-suede-boots-shoes-jackets-and-accessories.html
      3. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      4. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      5. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      6. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      7. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/how-to-clean-white-shoes
      8. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      9. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      10. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      11. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      12. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/style/shoes/waterproofing-shoes/
      13. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      14. ↑ Marc Sigal. Shoe Care Specialist. Expert Interview. 15 January 2020.
      15. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      16. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/clothing-care/learn-how-to-clean-your-vans-shoes.html
      17. ↑ https://www.askteamclean.com/us/en/diy/how-to-dry-shoes-quickly.html
      18. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      19. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      20. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      21. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/clothing-care/learn-how-to-clean-your-vans-shoes.html
      22. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      23. ↑ https://www.vans.co.uk/news/blog/how-to-clean-vans-shoes.html
      24. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-clean-shoelaces-7974284

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To clean Vans, start by brushing them with a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to clear off any caked-on dirt. Then, scrub the outside of your shoes with warm, soapy water. After you've scrubbed your shoes, rinse them off and wrap them in a towel to dry. If your Vans are really dirty, put them in a pillowcase and machine wash them on a gentle setting with cold water. Use half as much laundry detergent as you'd normally use. Then, set your shoes somewhere to air dry. To learn how to bleach the soles of your Vans to make them white again, keep reading!

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