Young woman wearing white Converse

How to Clean White Converse

Introduction

Converse shoes have been a fashion staple for decades, known for their timeless style and comfort. However, if you own a pair of white Converse or any other colour, you've probably faced the challenge of keeping them clean and pristine. Fortunately, with the right techniques and cleaning products, cleaning white converse is easy. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to clean Converse shoes from the inside to the out, sharing the best tips for different colours and the best cleaning products to use.

Converse in the air

Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before learning how to clean converse shoes, gather the necessary supplies. Here's what you'll need:

Step 2: Remove the Laces

Start by removing the shoelaces from your Converse shoes. This will allow you to clean the entire surface more effectively and get into all the nooks and crannies.

Step 3: Shake Out Loose Dirt

Hold your shoes upside down and give them a good shake to remove loose dirt and debris from the inside.

Step 4: Clean the Insoles

Remove the insoles from your Converse shoes if possible. If they are not removable, you can still clean them in place. Mix a solution of warm water and mild laundry detergent or a specialised shoe cleaner. Use a cloth or sponge to scrub the insoles gently. For stubborn stains and odours, consider sprinkling some baking soda on the insoles and letting them sit for a few hours before brushing off the powder.
 

Converse skater girls

Step 5: Scrub the Exterior

For white Converse shoes or any other colour, start by wetting the soft-bristle brush or toothbrush with warm water. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent or specialised shoe cleaner to the brush. Gently scrub the canvas or fabric exterior of your shoes in a circular motion. Pay extra attention to stained or discoloured areas. For white Converse, you can also use a mixture of toothpaste and water to target stubborn stains. Rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Step 6: Tackle Tough Stains

For stubborn stains on the canvas, mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly to the stained areas. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then scrub gently with the soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with water.

Step 7: Clean the Rubber Soles

To clean the rubber soles of your Converse shoes, dampen the toothbrush or soft-bristle brush with warm water and a bit of mild detergent or white vinegar. Scrub the rubber soles, paying attention to any scuff marks or dirt buildup. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 8: Dry Properly

After cleaning, stuff your shoes with clean paper towels or old newspaper to help them retain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Allow your Converse shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will prevent any damage to the fabric or rubber.

Step 9: Re-Lace and Deodorise

Once your Converse shoes are dry, re-lace them and consider using a shoe deodoriser to keep them smelling fresh. You can also sprinkle some baking soda inside the shoes to absorb any remaining odours.
 

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