How To Clean Cloth Shoes: The Ultimate Guide for Every Fabric

Can I clean my cloth shoes? Absolutely! This guide provides detailed instructions on cleaning fabric shoes, from canvas sneakers to mesh tennis shoes. We’ll cover various techniques, from removing stubborn stains to using homemade shoe cleaners. You’ll learn the best way to clean cloth footwear and keep your favorite shoes looking fresh.

Cleaning cloth shoes can seem daunting, but with the right methods and a little patience, you can restore them to their former glory. Different fabrics require different approaches, and this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you don’t damage your beloved footwear. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains, general dirt, or just want to freshen up your white shoes, we’ve got you covered with practical shoe cleaning tips.

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The Importance of Regular Cleaning

Just like any other garment, your cloth shoes need regular cleaning. Neglecting them can lead to:

• Unpleasant odors: Dirt and sweat accumulate, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Permanent stains: The longer stains sit, the harder they are to remove.
• Fabric damage: Dirt particles can grind into the fibers, causing wear and tear.
• Reduced lifespan: Regular cleaning helps maintain the integrity of the shoe’s materials.

What You’ll Need: Gathering Your Supplies

Before you start, gather your shoe cleaning supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a basic checklist:

• Soft-bristled brush: An old toothbrush or a shoe brush works well.
• Mild detergent: Dish soap or laundry detergent is suitable.
• Baking soda: Excellent for absorbing odors and lifting stains.
• White vinegar: A natural cleaning agent and deodorizer.
• Clean cloths or sponges: For wiping and scrubbing.
• Water: Both warm and cold water will be needed.
• Magic Eraser: Helps to clean white midsoles.
• Paper towels: For stuffing the shoes to maintain their shape.
• Shoe cleaner: If you prefer a commercial cleaner.

Preparing Your Shoes: The First Steps

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to prep your shoes.

1. Remove the Laces: Take out the laces to clean them separately. They can usually be hand-washed or tossed into a laundry bag and machine-washed.
2. Remove Insoles (If Possible): Taking out the insoles lets you clean them individually and helps the shoes dry faster.
3. Dry Brush: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove loose dirt and debris from the shoes. Pay attention to the soles and any crevices.
4. Pre-Treat Stains: Address any noticeable stains before washing the entire shoe. This increases the chance of successful stain removal.

General Cleaning Method for Cloth Shoes

This method is suitable for most types of cloth shoes, including canvas and some synthetic materials.

1. Mix Your Cleaning Solution: In a bowl, mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent. A ratio of one teaspoon of detergent per cup of water is generally sufficient.
2. Apply the Solution: Dip a clean cloth or brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the shoes. Focus on areas with visible dirt or stains.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the soapy residue. Repeat until all the detergent is removed.
4. Stuff and Air Dry: Stuff the shoes with paper towels to help them maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Air dry them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat.

Addressing Specific Fabrics

While the general cleaning method works well for many cloth shoes, some materials require special care.

Cleaning Canvas Shoes

Canvas is a durable fabric that can withstand a bit more scrubbing. For stubborn stains on canvas shoes, try the following:

1. Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stained areas and let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. Scrub Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the paste into the fabric.
3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly with clean water and air dry as described above.

Washing Cloth Sneakers

Cloth sneakers, especially those used for sports, can get particularly dirty. Here’s how to tackle them:

1. Machine Washing (If Allowed): Check the care label. If the sneakers are machine washable, place them in a laundry bag to protect them. Use a gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid using the dryer; always air dry.
2. Hand Washing: If machine washing isn’t an option, follow the general cleaning method, paying extra attention to areas with heavy dirt buildup.

Removing Stains from Canvas Shoes

Stains can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can significantly improve your chances of removal.

• Grease Stains: Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the grease stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for several hours, then vacuum or brush it away.
• Mud Stains: Allow the mud to dry completely before attempting to remove it. Once dry, brush off as much as possible, then use the general cleaning method.
• Ink Stains: Dab the ink stain with rubbing alcohol, then blot with a clean cloth. Repeat until the stain is gone, then rinse with water.

How to Clean White Shoes

Keeping white shoes clean can be a challenge. Here’s a powerful method:

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar: Mix baking soda and white vinegar to form a paste. Apply the paste to the white areas of the shoes.
2. Let It Sit: Allow the paste to dry completely, which may take a few hours.
3. Brush Off: Use a dry brush to remove the dried paste. The stains should come off with it.
4. Wipe Clean: Wipe the shoes with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.

You can also use magic erasers to spot clean the white rubber midsoles of your shoes.

Best Way to Clean Cloth Footwear

The “best” way often depends on the specific shoe and the type of dirt or stain. However, a combination of regular cleaning and prompt stain treatment is generally the most effective approach. Prevention is also key. Consider using a fabric protector spray to repel dirt and water.

Cleaning Mesh Shoes

Mesh shoes require a gentle touch to avoid damaging the delicate material.

1. Gentle Brush: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove loose dirt.
2. Mild Solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water.
3. Dab and Blot: Use a soft cloth or sponge to dab the cleaning solution onto the mesh. Avoid excessive scrubbing.
4. Rinse Carefully: Rinse with clean water, being careful not to saturate the shoe.
5. Air Dry: Stuff with paper towels and air dry away from direct heat.

Cleaning Cloth Tennis Shoes

Tennis shoes often accumulate sweat and dirt. Pay special attention to the insoles and the interior of the shoe.

1. Remove Insoles and Laces: Take out insoles and laces to wash separately.
2. Clean Interior: Use a cloth dampened with the cleaning solution to wipe down the inside of the shoes.
3. Follow General Cleaning Method: Apply the general cleaning method to the exterior of the shoes.
4. Disinfect (Optional): If you’re concerned about odors, you can use a shoe disinfectant spray after cleaning.

Cleaning Dirty Shoes

For shoes that are heavily soiled, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or use a stronger cleaning solution.

1. Pre-Soak: Soak the shoes in a basin of warm, soapy water for 30 minutes to loosen dirt and grime.
2. Scrub Thoroughly: Use a brush to scrub away any remaining dirt.
3. Rinse Well: Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.
4. Air Dry: Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them.

Homemade Shoe Cleaner

If you prefer a natural approach, you can create your own homemade shoe cleaner. Here are a couple of options:

• Baking Soda and Water: Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. This works well for general cleaning and stain removal.
• Vinegar and Water: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. This is effective for deodorizing and removing mildew.
• Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent and can help brighten white shoes. Apply lemon juice to the stained area, let it sit for a few hours, and then rinse.

Shoe Cleaning Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you keep your cloth shoes in top condition:

• Clean Regularly: Don’t wait until your shoes are heavily soiled. Regular cleaning prevents dirt from building up and becoming harder to remove.
• Protect Your Shoes: Use a fabric protector spray to create a barrier against dirt and water.
• Store Properly: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Replace Insoles: If your insoles are worn or smelly, consider replacing them.
• Use Shoe Trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb moisture.
• Avoid the Dryer: Never put your cloth shoes in the dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and adhesives.
• Test Cleaning Solutions: Before applying any cleaning solution to the entire shoe, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
• Be Gentle: Avoid harsh scrubbing, especially on delicate fabrics like mesh.
• Air Dry Thoroughly: Ensure your shoes are completely dry before wearing them to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Table: Cleaning Methods by Shoe Type

Shoe Type	Cleaning Method	Special Considerations
Canvas Shoes	General cleaning method, baking soda paste for stains	Can withstand more scrubbing; consider fabric protector spray
Cloth Sneakers	Machine washable (if allowed), hand wash for delicate materials	Remove insoles and laces; use gentle cycle
White Shoes	Baking soda and vinegar paste, magic eraser for midsoles	Avoid harsh chemicals that can yellow the fabric
Mesh Shoes	Gentle brush, mild solution, dab and blot	Avoid excessive scrubbing; delicate material
Cloth Tennis Shoes	General cleaning method, clean interior, optional disinfectant spray	Pay attention to insoles; remove sweat and odors
Dirty Shoes	Pre-soak, scrub thoroughly, rinse well	May need to repeat the cleaning process

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best way to clean white cloth shoes? A paste of baking soda and vinegar is highly effective for cleaning white cloth shoes. Apply the paste, let it dry, and then brush it off.
• Can I put my cloth shoes in the washing machine? Some cloth shoes are machine washable, but always check the care label first. If machine washing, use a gentle cycle and place the shoes in a laundry bag.
• How do I get rid of odors in my cloth shoes? Baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors. Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight before vacuuming it out.
• What is a good homemade shoe cleaner? A mixture of baking soda and water or vinegar and water makes an effective homemade shoe cleaner.
• How do I dry my cloth shoes after cleaning? Stuff the shoes with paper towels to help them maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Air dry them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat.
• How can I prevent my cloth shoes from getting dirty? Use a fabric protector spray to create a barrier against dirt and water. Clean your shoes regularly to prevent dirt from building up.
• What should I do if my cloth shoes have mold? Clean the mold with a mixture of vinegar and water. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently and rinse thoroughly. Ensure the shoes are completely dry before wearing them.
• How to remove yellow stains from white cloth shoes? Try using a mixture of lemon juice and water. Apply the mixture to the stain, let it sit in the sun for a few hours, and then rinse thoroughly.
• How often should I clean my cloth shoes? It depends on how often you wear them and how dirty they get. As a general rule, clean your shoes every few weeks or as needed.
• Who can I ask if my cleaning process fails? You can consult with a professional shoe cleaner or dry cleaner for advice on how to clean your specific type of cloth shoes. They may have specialized cleaning solutions and techniques that can help you achieve the best results.