Vans shoes are a popular choice for both casual and athletic wear because they look stylish no matter what you pair them with. That said, like all shoes, they can become dirty and stained. If you want to keep them looking their best, it’s important to know how to clean your Vans shoes.
I have all of the cleaning tips you need, and the best part is that they include the use of household cleaning supplies. Cleaning them is an important part of maintaining their appearance and comfort. If you plan on selling your Vans in the future (the shoe resale market is huge), cleaning them beforehand can help to increase their resale value. A fresh-looking pair of kicks is way more attractive to potential buyers.
So grab a few supplies and let’s get started. We’ve also got step-by-step guides on how to clean Converse, Air Force Ones, and Crocs. Download The Krazy Coupon Lady app to get the latest money-saving tips, browse shoe deals, and get household coupons.
How you clean your Vans depends on the fabric.
Vans shoes are typically made from a variety of fabrics, including canvas, leather, suede, and nubuck. The type of fabric will depend on the specific style and model of the shoes. Keeping your Vans clean can help to extend their lifespan by removing dirt and grime that can cause the shoes to deteriorate or wear out more quickly.
Here’s how to get them clean:
- Remove the laces: Take out the laces from your Vans shoes and set them aside.
- Make a DIY cleaning solution: In a small bowl, mix together warm water and a mild detergent, like dish soap.
- Clean the shoes: Using a soft-bristled brush (or an old toothbrush), gently scrub the shoes with the solution. Pay extra attention to any dirty or stained areas.
- Blot excess water: Use a clean microfiber cloth to remove any remaining soap residue and wipe the surface.
- Dry the shoes: Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a towel to help them retain their shape while they air dry. Avoid drying them in direct sunlight or heat, which can cause the shoes to fade or warp.
- Clean the laces: Wash the laces in the same cleaning solution you used for the shoes, then hang them up to dry.
- Re-lace the shoes: Once the shoes are completely dry, replace the laces, and they should look as good as new!
Note: Always check the care label on your Vans shoes before cleaning to make sure that you’re using the proper method. Some Vans, such as those made of suede or nubuck, may require special care.
Types of Vans fabrics and how to clean them
Canvas is a popular fabric choice, as it’s durable, lightweight, and breathable. Use the steps above to clean canvas shoes.
Leather Vans shoes can be wiped down with a damp cloth and leather cleaner, or they can be treated with a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and supple.
Suede and nubuck Vans shoes require special care, as they can easily become discolored or damaged by moisture and rough handling. Suede and nubuck shoes should be treated with a suede or nubuck cleaner and conditioner.
How do I make my dirty Vans white again?
To make your white Vans shoes bright again, follow these steps:
- Clean the shoes: Remove any loose dirt or debris from the shoes using a soft-bristled brush.
- Mix a cleaning solution: Stir warm water and a mild laundry detergent or baking soda. Avoid using bleach, as it can damage the fabric of the shoes.
- Apply the solution: Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution, then gently scrub the shoes. Be mindful of any stained or discolored areas.
- Wipe down: Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining liquid.
- Air dry the shoes: Reshape and dry them with a towel or newspaper stuffed inside.
Repeat as needed if the shoes are still not as white as you would like. Be gentle when scrubbing the shoes to avoid damaging the fabric or leaving any scratches.
Done properly, washing your Vans does not ruin them.
Washing your Vans shoes can help to keep them clean and fresh, but it can also potentially damage them if not done properly. Vans recommends not putting the shoes in the washing machine.
Here are some things to keep in mind to avoid ruining your Vans while washing them:
- Use a mild cleaning solution: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, which can discolor or damage the fabric of the shoes. Instead, use a mild laundry detergent or baking soda mixed with warm water.
- Be gentle: When scrubbing the shoes, use a soft cloth or sponge and be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric or leaving any scratches.
- Avoid excessive heat: Make sure to avoid exposing the shoes to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the shoes to fade or warp.
- Dry properly: When air drying the shoes, place a towel or crumbled newspaper in to keep their shape.
- Check the care label: Look at the care label on your shoes before washing them to make sure that you’re using the proper cleaning method.
You can absolutely use dish soap to clean your Vans.
Yes, you can clean Vans shoes with dish soap, but it’s important to use a mild formula to avoid damaging the fabric. Dish soap is designed to clean tough grease and grime, which can be effective in removing stains from Vans. Combine a few drops of dishwashing liquid and warm water in a bowl, then use a soft brush to remove stains.
Related: 24 Dawn Dish Soap Uses That Will Make Your Life Easier
Do not put Vans in the dishwasher.
It’s not recommended to put Vans shoes in the dishwasher. The high heat and agitation of the dishwasher can cause the shoes to shrink, warp, or discolor. Additionally, the harsh detergents used in the dishwasher can damage the fabric of the shoes.
While the dishwasher may be an excellent tool for making other things sparkle, it may not be able to effectively remove tough stains and dirt from the shoes. Plus, the moisture from the dishwasher can cause the shoes to develop mold or mildew. Yuck!
If you need to clean your Vans shoes, it’s best to hand-wash them using a mild detergent and warm water. Or spot clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always check the care label on your shoes before cleaning them, as the type of fabric will determine the proper cleaning method.
Tell us what you think