White Vans shoes are a wardrobe staple for many people. Their simple and classic design makes them versatile to pair with various outfits. However, their white color means they can get dirty easily and require proper cleaning to keep them looking fresh. Follow this guide to learn the best tips and tricks for cleaning white Vans to restore them to their original bright white color.
Why It’s Important to Clean White Vans
Keeping your white Vans shoes clean is important for a few reasons:
Maintain Appearance
The bright white color of new Vans is part of their iconic look. As they get dirty, they start to look dingy and worn out. Regular cleaning will keep them looking fresh and new.
Extend Longevity
Letting dirt and stains accumulate can lead to the materials breaking down more quickly. Giving them a frequent clean removes debris that can cause damage over time.
Prevent Odors
Sweat, dirt, and bacteria buildup can cause foul odors in shoes. Cleaning helps eliminate smells and keep them smelling fresh.
Improve Traction
When the rubber soles get caked with dirt, it reduces traction and grip. Clean treads gives you better stability.
Supplies Needed
Gather these supplies before beginning the cleaning process:
- Mild laundry detergent – Look for a gentle soap that won’t damage the shoe materials.
- Soft brush – A soft-bristled brush helps scrub the dirt away. An old toothbrush works well.
- Baking soda – Helps lift stains and whitens.
- White vinegar – Removes odors and disinfects.
- Old toothbrush – For scrubbing in crevices.
- Microfiber cloths – For wiping down the shoes.
- Washing machine (optional) – For a deep clean.
- Pillowcase (optional) – For washing in a machine.
- Laundry bag (optional) – Extra protection in the washer.
General Cleaning Tips
Follow these general tips whenever washing your white Vans:
- Clean them regularly before they get excessively dirty. It’s easier to remove fresher stains.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to allow them to dry thoroughly after cleaning.
- Use a soft brush and gentle scrubbing motion to avoid damaging the material.
- When using cleaning solutions, apply only a small amount and wipe off any excess moisture.
- Stuff with paper towels after washing to help them retain their shape as they dry.
- Allow to fully air dry before wearing again. Don’t put them in the dryer.
Cleaning By Hand
For standard cleaning, hand-washing your shoes is typically sufficient. Here is a simple process:
Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles
Before washing, remove the laces and take out any insoles. This allows you to clean the entire surface area, inside and out.
Step 2: Create Cleaning Solution
Mix a cleaning solution of two tablespoons laundry detergent with two cups warm water. For extra whitening power, add one tablespoon baking soda.
Step 3: Scrub With Soft Brush
Use a soft brush to gently scrub the soapy solution over the entire surface of the shoes. Get into crevices and along edges.
Step 4: Rinse
Rinse the shoes under running water until the suds are gone. Check for any remaining dirty spots and re-scrub if needed.
Step 5: Dry
Stuff shoe with paper towels to absorb moisture. Allow to fully air dry, 24-48 hours.
Step 6: Freshen Insoles
Sprinkle baking soda lightly on the insoles. Let sit for 15 minutes before brushing off.
Deep Cleaning Methods
For a more thorough clean, use these techniques:
Washing Machine
You can clean white Vans in the washing machine using these steps:
- Place each shoe in its own pillowcase and tie ends shut. This prevents damage.
- Wash on a gentle, cold water cycle with mild detergent.
- Air dry fully after washing. Stuff with towels to retain shape.
Whitening Solution
For dingy shoes:
- Mix 2 tbsp baking soda + 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide.
- Apply paste with toothbrush and let sit 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse clean.
Vinegar Rinse
To remove odors:
- Fill a spray bottle with 1 part white vinegar, 4 parts water.
- Lightly mist inside shoes and let sit overnight.
- In the morning, rinse with water.
- Allow to dry fully before wearing.
Spot Cleaning Tips
Use these methods to remove specific types of stains:
Mud
- Let mud dry fully then scrape off excess dirt with a blunt tool.
- Create a baking soda paste and scrub into stain.
- Rinse clean.
Food Stains
- Apply a small amount of laundry detergent directly on the spot.
- Use a toothbrush to work the detergent into the fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is gone.
Oil/Grease
- Sprinkle baking soda on grease spots.
- Spray a small amount of dish soap over the area.
- Scrub gently with a toothbrush.
- Rinse clean.
Scuffs
- Rub scuffs gently with a pencil eraser.
- For deeper scuffs, apply a small amount of white toothpaste.
- Buff gently with a microfiber cloth.
- Rinse away toothpaste.
Chewing Gum
- Freeze gum by placing shoes in freezer 60 minutes.
- Use a blunt tool to pry off hardened gum.
- Rub any remaining sticky residue off with oil or alcohol.
Caring for Your Cleaned Shoes
Once you’ve put in the work to get your white Vans sparkling again, use these tips to maintain their fresh look:
- Apply a waterproofer spray that is safe for canvas shoes. This creates a protective barrier.
- Store shoes on a shoe rack, not on the floor where they can get dusty or dirty.
- Use shoe inserts to absorb foot sweat and odor between wears.
- Spot clean after each wear if needed using the techniques above.
- Give them a thorough clean every 1-2 months.
- Rotate your shoes so you aren’t wearing the same pair two days in a row.
When to Replace Your Vans
With proper care, white Vans can last a long time. But occasionally they can get too worn out and grimy to salvage. Some signs it’s time to retire them:
- The canvas has holes, tears, or rips that can’t be repaired.
- The sole separates from the upper or they lose their structure.
- Stains have set in and can’t be removed with cleaning.
- The tread pattern on soles is worn smooth.
- They have a permanent odor that can’t be removed.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about keeping white Vans clean:
What is the best way to clean white Vans?
Hand washing with laundry detergent and gently scrubbing with a soft brush is the best method. Make a cleaning solution of 2 tbsp detergent + 2 cups water. Rinse thoroughly after washing.
Can you put Vans in the washing machine?
Yes, you can wash Vans in the washing machine but take precautions. Place each shoe in its own tied pillowcase for protection. Wash on a delicate, cold cycle with mild detergent. Air dry completely after washing.
How do you whiten dingy Vans?
Make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to dingy areas with a toothbrush. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. The paste will naturally whiten and brighten them up.
How do you get old stains out of Vans?
Spot treat set-in stains. Use a small amount of laundry detergent directly on the stain and work it in with a toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed. Repeat if needed for tough stains.
How can you fix scuffed Vans?
Lightly buff scuffs with a pencil eraser. For deeper scuffs, apply a small amount of white toothpaste and gently rub with a microfiber cloth. Rinse away toothpaste after buffing.
What homemade cleaner works on Vans?
Make a solution of 2 parts water + 1 part vinegar. Lightly mist over shoes and let sit overnight to naturally kill odors and bacteria. The vinegar smell will dissipate after drying.
How do I make my white Vans look new again?
A combination of hand washing, spot treating any stains, and applying baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste to brighten them will help restore their look. Maintain them by regularly cleaning after wears.
What do I do if my Vans get soaked?
Remove the laces and insoles and stuff the insides with paper towels. Let them air dry fully, 24-48 hours. The towels will absorb moisture and help them maintain their shape as they dry.
How often should you clean white Vans?
Aim to clean them every 1-2 months with a thorough hand washing. Also spot clean more frequently if they get visibly dirty after wearing. Rotating shoes between wears helps reduce need for cleaning.
Conclusion
White Vans require a bit more maintenance to keep looking crisp and new compared to other shoe colors. But a minimal amount of regular care will maintain their fresh appearance for a long time. Hand washing with gentle brush scrubbing removes dirt buildup and stains. Spot clean as needed between full washes. And occasionally use baking soda or vinegar solutions for an extra whitening boost. With the right techniques, you can keep your classic white Vans shoes looking like new.