White shoes are very beautiful to look at, but unfortunately they get stained very easily. Traces of dirt, stains and scratches seem to particularly appreciate a new pair of white Vans. Thankfully, these shoes are easy to clean and there are several ways to restore them to their former glory.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: By Hand
Step 1. Prepare a cleaning solution
It is not at all difficult to wash Vans with a mixture of hot water and laundry detergent. In a large bowl, mix 60 ml of laundry soap and 480 ml of hot water. If the shoes are particularly dirty, it is worth washing them one at a time, preparing a new solution for the second. If you don't have much detergent available, here are some alternative "ingredients":
- Mix 60ml of dish soap with 480ml of warm water.
- Combine 60ml of window cleaner with 480ml of warm water.
- Dissolve 60ml of shampoo in 480ml of warm water.
- Use the Vans specific cleaner that you can find in shoe stores that deal with this brand.
Step 2. Prepare a second basin with clean water
You will use it to rinse the cloth with which you will rub your shoes.
Step 3. Soak the rag in the soapy solution and rub it on the Vans
Work a small section at a time, dipping the rag in water and scrubbing in a circular motion. Rinse the cloth in clean water and then soak it again in soapy water, until you have cleaned the canvas part of both shoes.
- Use the same method to wash the inside of the shoes.
- If you want to wash the laces separately, pour some of the cleaning solution into a separate bowl and let them soak. When you're done washing your shoes, you can rinse the laces in clean warm water.
Step 4. Scrub the rubber parts with an old toothbrush
Dirt and dust accumulate on the rubber part of the Vans, so you will need to use a tool a little more aggressive than the cloth to deal with these stains. Dip your toothbrush in the soap solution and scrub the sides of the sole and any rubber elements.
- If you don't have a toothbrush handy, you can use the abrasive side of a dish sponge or small brush.
- If the rubber elements are not excessively dirty, you can clean them with wet wipes to remove scratches and light imperfections.
Step 5. Finish cleaning with a second, wet, clean cloth
In this way, you remove the soap and dirt residues that may be left on the footwear. In the end, check your work and if you are satisfied with the result. If you find that the cleaner has not been effective in some places, then you will need to use other techniques for stubborn stains.
Step 6. Fill the shoes with newspaper and let them dry in the open air
The paper absorbs much of the moisture and keeps the shoes in their original shape. Place the Vans in a sunny area and wait until they are completely dry before putting the laces back on.
Method 2 of 3: In the washing machine
Step 1. Remove the laces and insoles
This method is perfect for muddy Vans (but not suitable for leather models). Remember to remove the laces and insoles so that everything is perfectly clean.
Step 2. Place your shoes and all items in a pillowcase or delicate laundry bag
This way you protect both the shoes and the washing machine from knocks during washing. Make sure the pillowcase or bag is tightly closed so it doesn't open during the cleaning cycle.
Step 3. Clean your shoes by selecting a gentle wash program with warm water
This should be enough to wash them well without damaging them. Don't be tempted by very hot water, no matter how dirty your footwear is. The high temperatures melt the glue that holds the various components of the Vans, which would then begin to peel off.
- Remember to use the same amount of detergent you would use for a small load of laundry.
- Do not wash Vans with other items of clothing, especially delicates, as they could damage your clothes.
Step 4. Fill the shoes with newspaper and put them to air dry
Do not use the dryer, even at low temperatures, as you could damage the glue that joins the various parts of the Vans. Just stuff them with newspaper to preserve their shape and expose them to the sun.
- Check the result to see if you are satisfied with the color of the shoes. If you notice any areas that are still dirty or stained, you will need to rely on the stain method.
- Once dry, you can put the laces back on and put the insoles back on.
Method 3 of 3: Against Stains and Scratches
Step 1. Use the magic eraser or another stain remover
Magic Eraser is a product that contains cleaning agents that are effective in removing most of the stains that "plague" white Vans, including mud and grass stains. You can also use it to "erase" scratches from the edges of the soles. Always follow the instructions on the product packaging.
Step 2. Try denatured alcohol
This is also an effective cleaner against scratches, ink stains and other small dirt marks. Dip a cotton ball in alcohol and soak the stained area. Rub gently with the swab, repeat the process until the stain is completely removed.
- Alternatively, you can use nail polish remover on scratches and ink stains.
- If the Vans are smudged with paint, try blotting them with the thinner.
Step 3. Use a combination of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda
Water, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide are perfect cleaners for white shoes. If you don't have hydrogen peroxide, you can make a simple paste with water and baking soda. Here's how to proceed:
- Make a dough with 15 g of baking soda, 7 ml of hot water and the same of hydrogen peroxide.
- Take a brush or an old toothbrush and dip it into the mixture. Use it to scrub stains.
- Wait for the dough to dry on your shoes for at least half an hour.
- When the baking soda is dry, rinse your shoes thoroughly with clean water. Repeat the process as many times as necessary.
Step 4. Use lemon juice
This product is a great home remedy that works wonders on blemishes. Mix one part of lemon juice with four parts of water. Dip a sponge in the solution and scrub your shoes. Once the stain is divided, you can rinse the Vans with clean water.
Step 5. Use bleach
If you need to get rid of a bad stain on white shoes, then bleach is the only solution. Remember that this is a dangerous substance, so you need to be very careful not to inhale the fumes or come into contact with your bare skin. Wear old clothes that you don't care about staining with bleach splashes, as this product bleaches fabrics on contact alone. Here's how to use it effectively:
- Dilute one part of bleach with five of water because, if it is pure, it tends to make white fabrics yellow.
- Take a brush or an old toothbrush, dip it in the bleach solution, and use it to scrub the stains.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Repeat the process until the stain disappears.
Step 6. Use the toothpaste to cover the stain
If you need a quick fix and can't completely clean your shoes, smear some white toothpaste on the stains. Continue to distribute the product until the dirt is no longer visible. Finish the procedure by removing the stain using one of the methods described above.
Advice
Give new Vans a waterproof treatment. This way your new next pair of shoes will stay pristine for longer. You can purchase a waterproofing solution and do the job yourself or hire a shoemaker
Warnings
- Footwear with leather elements should not be washed by immersing them completely in water.
- The bleach may fade the colored parts of the shoes.
