How to Clean Converse Sneakers

Nothing pulls together an outfit more than a fresh pair of sneakers, so it’s important to know how to clean your Converse sneakers to keep them in good shape. It’s almost inevitable that sneakers will need cleaning at some point from grass, dirt, or puddle stains. 

However, different types of Converse require different cleaning methods, such as detergent and a melamine sponge for canvas and leather sneakers, and cornstarch and a suede brush for suede Converse. Follow these simple methods to clean all types of Converse and keep your kicks looking fresh.

WARNING

The Converse website warns that its sneakers should not be machine-washed or dried under any circumstances.

Fun Facts

The company began operation as the Converse Rubber Shoe Company in February 1908 in Malden, Massachusetts. Chuck Taylor, a basketball player, was hired in 1923 as a salesman and in 1932 his name became synonymous with classic basketball sneakers. Converse was purchased by Nike in July, 2003, and the line expanded to include custom designs.

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What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

• Soft-bristled brush
• Small bowl
• Suede brush
• Sponge or microfiber cloth

Materials

• Gentle detergent
• Melamine sponge
• White tissue paper
• Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Fabric protective spray

Instructions

How to Clean Canvas and Leather Converse Sneakers

1. Remove and Clean the Laces
   • Remove the laces and fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of detergent. 
   • Submerge the laces, letting them soak while you clean the shoes. 
   • After soaking, use your hands or a soft-bristled brush to scrub the laces. 
   • Rinse well in clean water and roll in a towel to absorb moisture, then hang the laces to air dry.
   TipIf the laces are the dirtiest part of the sneakers, replace them and your sneakers will immediately look better.
2. Remove Dirt With a Soft-Bristled Brush
   • Allow any mud on the sneakers to dry completely first.
   • Use a soft-bristled brush to remove the dirt from the soles and uppers.
   
3. Clean With Mild Detergent and Warm Water
   • Mix a solution of warm water and a mild detergent in a small bowl.
   • Dampen a sponge or microfiber cloth with the solution and gently rub the sneaker to remove soil from the canvas and outer sole.
   • Use a melamine sponge (Mr. Clean Eraser) and the cleaning solution to clean the scuffs on the outer sole. Do not use the melamine sponge on the canvas or leather uppers.
   
4. Wipe Down the Inside
   • Mix a fresh solution of the cleaning mixture.
   • Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and wipe down the interior of the sneakers.
   
5. Air-Dry the Sneakers
   • Let the shoes air-dry completely before wearing again.
   • For high-tops, stuff them with tissue paper to help them keep their shape. Change the paper after an hour and as needed afterward if the shoes are very damp.
   • Once dry, relace the sneakers.
   

How to Clean Suede Converse Sneakers

• Fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of detergent, then submerge the laces while cleaning the shoes. Rinse and air-dry after soaking.
• Allow muddy or wet sneakers to air-dry completely before cleaning.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the sole. Use only a specialty suede brush to clean the suede.
• Sprinkle oil stains with cornstarch. Let sit for several hours to absorb the oil, then brush it away. Repeat as needed.
• Use a damp melamine sponge or cloth to clean the outer sole.
• Follow the same cleaning tips for canvas and leather sneakers to clean the inside of suede sneakers.
• Let shoes air-dry after cleaning. Once the interior and exterior of the suede sneakers are completely dry, use the suede brush to lift the nap.

Tips to Keep Your Converse Sneakers Clean Longer

• Allow the sneakers to air-dry between every wear to allow the fibers to recover.
• Clean or replace laces often.
• Treat canvas sneakers with a fabric protective spray that will help repel soil.
• Store Converse sneakers in a breathable cotton bag to prevent dust from settling on the shoes.
• Sprinkle dry baking soda inside sneakers to freshen smelly sneakers. Let the baking soda sit for at least 4 hours up or overnight and shake out the baking soda before wearing it again.