To clean Converse shoes, remove the laces, brush off dry dirt, scrub the canvas with a soft brush and a mix of mild soap and lukewarm water, whiten the rubber toe cap and sidewalls with baking soda paste, wipe everything down and let the shoes air dry. Converse advises against machine washing and tumble drying its shoes.
In this guide
What you need
- A soft brush or old toothbrush
- Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- A melamine sponge (magic eraser)
- Two clean cloths
- Plain paper for stuffing
How to clean canvas Converse by hand
- Take out the laces and soak them in warm soapy water. See how to clean white shoelaces.
- Knock the soles together and brush off loose dirt.
- Mix a teaspoon of mild soap into two cups of lukewarm water.
- Scrub the canvas in small circles, covering the whole upper including the tongue.
- Treat stains with a paste of baking soda and water. Leave it for 15 minutes, then scrub.
- Wipe off soap with a clean damp cloth until no suds remain.
- Stuff with plain paper and air dry at room temperature.
How to clean the rubber toe cap and sidewalls
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| General grime | Toothbrush with baking soda paste |
| Scuff marks | Damp melamine sponge with light pressure |
| Dirt in the textured toe bumper | Toothbrush bristles worked into the grooves |
| Yellowing | Baking soda paste with a little hydrogen peroxide on white rubber only; wipe off after 30 minutes |
Related: How to Measure Your Shoe Size at Home (With Size Chart)
Can you put Converse in the washing machine?
The brand’s own care advice is to clean by hand and not to machine wash or tumble dry. Machine washing can loosen the glue between the canvas and the rubber sole, fade colours and leave the canvas misshapen. Some people do wash them on a cold, gentle cycle inside a mesh bag without problems, but it is at your own risk. If you choose to, follow the precautions in how to wash shoes in the washing machine, and never use the dryer.
Cleaning by Converse type
- White canvas: the method above. For deep stains, an oxygen bleach soak is safer than chlorine bleach. Dry in the shade to avoid yellowing.
- Black and coloured canvas: cool water, mild soap and no bleach. Test stain removers on the inside of the tongue first, because dye can lift.
- Leather Converse: wipe with a damp soapy cloth, dry and condition. See how to clean white leather shoes.
- Suede Converse: dry brush and suede eraser only. See how to clean suede shoes.
How to dry Converse properly
- Stuff the toes with plain paper to hold the shape and absorb water.
- Dry at room temperature with good airflow; a fan helps.
- Keep them away from radiators and direct sun, which can yellow the rubber and warp the sole.
- Allow 24 hours before wearing.
Keeping them clean
- Spray new pairs with a fabric protector.
- Wipe the rubber with a damp cloth after muddy wear.
- Rotate with another pair so they dry out fully between wears, which also limits odour; see how to get rid of shoe odor.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my white Converse white again?
Scrub with baking soda paste, rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry in the shade. For stubborn dinginess, soak in an oxygen bleach solution following the product instructions.
Why did my Converse turn yellow after washing?
Usually from soap or bleach residue and drying in sunlight. Rinse again with clean water and dry them indoors.
Can I use bleach on Converse?
It is best avoided. Bleach can yellow canvas and rubber and weaken the glue. Oxygen bleach is a gentler alternative for white canvas.
How often should I clean them?
Spot clean marks as they appear and do a full hand wash every few weeks if you wear them regularly.
