How to Clean Canvas Shoes

Step 1

Start by removing the laces from the shoes. Zip them into in a mesh laundry bag and toss them in your washer to clean them. If your shoes have removable insoles or you’ve put a pair into them, remove those from your shoes as well.

Step 2

Next, use a scrub brush to brush off any loose dust and dirt from your shoes. Then in a bucket or your sink, mix up a soaking solution of 1/4 cup of OxiClean per gallon of warm water. Submerge your shoes in the solution and allow them to soak for 30 minutes to two hours, depending on how dirty they are.

Step 3

After soaking, use a scrub brush or a toothbrush to scrub away the loosened dirt and grime. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water, then use a dry towel to absorb as much water as you can from the outside and inside of the shoes.

Step 4

Finally, stuff a bit of newspaper into each shoe to help absorb excess moisture and hold the shape of the shoes while they dry. Set the shoes aside and allow them to dry completely, which could take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days depending on the humidity. Once your shoes have dried, relace them and then go show off your fresh and clean kicks!