How to Clean White Canvas Vans

Alescia asked: How do I clean white, canvas vans? I got them a little dirty. I know putting them in the washer will turn them yellow. I need a guaranteed answer on how to make them all white again.

Cleaning white, canvas Vans or any other canvas shoes can be a real challenge. The yellowing that you describe in the washing machine can be caused from bleach being used or the glue that holds the base to the shoe, spreading onto the canvas. Follow these guidelines from the Vans website for proper care and cleaning.

You Will Need:

Woolite or mild detergent
Soft brush
Water
Towels
Sink or bucket

Steps to Clean the Shoes:

Begin by filling the sink or bucket with warm water.
Add a small amount of mild detergent (it’s important not to use harsh detergents) to the water and agitate until suds begin to form.
Lay out a thick towel.
Holding the shoe over the water (do not submerge it), dip the brush into the soapy water and scrub the surfaces of the shoe.
Repeat until all of the dirt has been scrubbed away.
Rinse with clean water.
When the shoes are cleaned and rinsed, place them on top of the towel. Wrap the sides of the towel over the shoe and gently press out the excess water.
Open the shoes up completely and allow them to air dry.
Avoid wearing or storing the shoes while still wet or damp. This can lead to mold and mildew growth which is even more difficult to remove.

Additional Tips and Advice

Canvas shoes can usually be washed on the gentle cycle in the washing machine. However, if the shoes are made from synthetic materials, it is best to hand wash them.
There are special cleaning products available to clean suede Vans. These can be found at shoe stores or some drug stores.
For severely dirty shoes, it may be necessary to add a small amount of bleach to the water. Using a dye-free bleach will help to avoid the yellow stains that bleach can sometimes create.

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