The Toms are comfortable shoes and perfect for creating witty looks. Wearing them often, it is normal for them to get dirty. You can hand wash them using plain soapy water, but you can also put them in the washing machine. Let them air dry: the dryer can ruin the fabric. If you feel you need to clean your leather soles, make a deodorant powder at home.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Hand Wash the Toms
Step 1. Remove dust and dirt residue from the Toms using a dry, soft-bristled brush
To clean the Toms it is important that the brush has soft bristles. You can for example use a nail brush. Otherwise you risk damaging the fabric. Remove all dirt and dust from your shoes by brushing them from heel to toe.
Step 2. Pour cold water into a bowl
You won't need much, unless you have to wash several pairs of shoes. Start by measuring 250ml of water and add more if needed.
Step 3. Pour a few drops of detergent into the water
You can use a mild laundry detergent or dish detergent. Pour a few drops into cold water. You should use enough of it to get soap bubbles after mixing it with water.
Step 4. Apply the solution on the Toms using the brush
Wash the brush you used to remove dust and dirt residue. Once clean, dip it in soapy water. Put your hand into the shoe while holding it under the fabric. Gently scrub the canvas until it is clean.
If the Toms are covered in sequins, be sure to brush them in the same direction they were placed, otherwise some may come off
Step 5. Let the Toms air dry
If you put them in the dryer, the fabric will shrink and you risk not being able to fit them anymore. Therefore it is best to let them air dry. The time it takes depends on how wet they are. They should dry completely within a few hours.
Step 6. Clean stubborn stains locally
If at the end of the drying process you notice that the stains have not gone away, you will need to clean them again. However, instead of washing the entire shoe, this time focus on stubborn stains. Put them in the washing machine if this doesn't work.
Method 2 of 3: Washing the Toms in the Washing Machine
Step 1. Set up a gentle wash cycle with cold water
Select the most delicate program of the washing machine, which is usually called "Delicates" or "Lingerie". Make sure the wash is cold.
Step 2. Measure a quarter of the amount of detergent you usually use
Pour a mild detergent into the drum. In this way the whole product will be covered with water and the foam will form more easily. Use about a quarter of the amount of liquid detergent you would use for a normal load. The detergent should be mild and bleach-free.
Step 3. Put your shoes in the washing machine drum, close the door and turn it on
At this point your work will be finished: the washing machine will take care of the rest. Use the shoe program if your appliance is equipped with this washing cycle.
Step 4. Let the Toms air dry
If you put them in the dryer, the canvas can shrink and tear. Instead, take them out of the washing machine and let them air dry overnight.
Step 5. Eliminate localized spots
If after taking your shoes out of the dryer you find that the stains have not gone away, clean them locally. Mix cold water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the soapy water and rub it into the stain. Then, wash the Toms in the washing machine again.
Method 3 of 3: Eliminate Bad Smells from Toms Leather Soles
Step 1. Make a deodorant powder
In an airtight plastic bag, pour 1 cup of cornstarch, ½ cup of baking soda, and ½ cup of baking powder. Close the bag and shake it to mix the ingredients well. This powder has deodorant properties.
Step 2. Add essential oils if you want to perfume the powder
Lavender and sage oils have antibacterial properties, so they are great for increasing the effectiveness of the powder. You can also use the oil of your choice for the simple purpose of scenting it. Add 5 drops of oil to the deodorant powder, reseal the bag and shake well to mix.
Do not sprinkle baking soda directly on the shoes, as it can dry out the leather on its own
Step 3. Sprinkle the powder on the Toms and let it sit for 8 hours
Sprinkle enough to cover the sole of each shoe. Then, let it sit overnight. If the smell is particularly bad, you can leave it on for 24 hours.
Step 4. Remove the dust the next morning
Once it takes effect, gently brush the soles with a soft-bristled brush. This should help you get rid of any particles that have stuck to the sole. Finally throw away the dust.
