If your favorite pair of Vans has seen better days, you’ve probably wondered: can you just toss them in the washing machine for a quick refresh? With their rugged canvas and iconic style, it’s tempting to believe your Vans can handle a spin cycle just like your t-shirts.
Knowing the right way to clean your Vans is key to keeping them looking great and lasting longer. In this article, we’ll settle the machine washing debate, offer step-by-step cleaning solutions, and share easy tips to protect your kicks.
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Can You Machine Wash Vans Shoes? Everything You Need to Know
If you’re the proud owner of a pair of Vans shoes, it’s only natural to want to keep them looking fresh and clean. After a few months of adventures, your trusty Vans might show signs of dirt, stains, or even an unmistakable odor. That brings us to the all-important question: can you machine wash Vans shoes?
Let’s dive into this topic, break down the best cleaning methods, and give you expert tips so your favorite kicks can stay stylish and last longer.
Can You Machine Wash Vans Shoes?
The short answer is: Yes, you can machine wash some types of Vans shoes—but with important precautions. Canvas Vans, in particular, are often machine-washable. However, machine washing is generally not recommended for leather, suede, or delicate fabrics as it can ruin the material and weaken the structure of your shoes.
While the convenience of tossing your sneakers in a washing machine is appealing, there are risks and best practices you need to know about before you start. Let’s explore these in detail.
Understanding Your Vans: Material Matters
Before heading to your laundry room, it’s crucial to identify what your Vans shoes are made of:
Canvas
- Most classic Vans, like Authentics and Old Skools, are made of sturdy canvas.
- Canvas generally tolerates gentle machine washing, but still requires care.
Suede
- Suede is sensitive and can be badly damaged by water and agitation.
- Machine washing is not advised.
Leather
- Leather is prone to drying out, cracking, and losing shape if machine-washed.
- Stick to hand-cleaning methods.
Mixed materials
- Shoes with mixed textiles (canvas/suede or canvas/leather) should only be spot-cleaned.
Tip: Always check the care label inside your Vans for material-specific recommendations.
The Pros and Cons of Machine Washing Vans
Benefits
- Convenience: Saves time compared to manual scrubbing
- Deep cleaning: Machine action and detergent can remove built-up dirt and grime
- Even cleaning: Reduces patchiness sometimes caused by spot-cleaning
Challenges & Risks
- Potential damage: High agitation, spin cycles, and hot water can weaken the shoe’s glued parts, alter color, or deform the soles.
- Material issues: Not suitable for suede, leather, or specialty finishes.
- Noise: Washing shoes can be loud and potentially harm your machine drum.
- Shortened lifespan: Too many machine washes can weaken fabric and seams.
How to Machine Wash Your Canvas Vans: Step-by-Step Guide
For canvas Vans, here’s how you can safely use the washing machine:
1. Prepare Your Shoes
- Remove laces and insoles
Take out the laces and insoles. This helps the shoes get cleaner and protects these sensitive parts. - Brush off loose dirt
Use a soft brush or cloth to knock off as much loose dirt, mud, and debris as possible.
2. Protect Your Shoes (and Washing Machine)
- Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
This reduces impact and noise, minimizing damage to both your shoes and the washing machine. - Wash laces separately
Pop them into their own small laundry bag or pillowcase.
3. Use the Right Settings
- Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Water temperature: Stick to cold or lukewarm water to avoid shrinking or damaging glue.
- Detergent: Use a mild, non-bleaching detergent.
- Load size: Add towels to balance the load, dampen noise, and cushion the shoes.
4. Start the Wash
- Double-check that everything is secured, then run the washer.
5. Dry Properly—Never Use a Dryer
- Once washed, reshape your Vans and let them air dry naturally.
- Stuff the shoes with towels or paper to retain their shape and absorb moisture.
- Avoid direct sunlight or high heat sources to prevent fading or warping.
Hand-Washing Vans: A Gentler Alternative
If you’re concerned about damaging your shoes, hand-washing is always a safer bet.
Quick Hand-Wash Steps
- Mix warm water and mild detergent in a bowl.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to gently clean the shoes’ surface.
- Focus on stains and built-up dirt.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Air dry, stuffing with paper towels to help maintain shape.
This technique works for all Vans, including those made of suede or leather surfaces (use as little water as possible for these materials).
Cleaning Special Materials: Suede and Leather Vans
Suede
- Avoid soaking or scrubbing with water.
- Use a suede brush to buff out marks.
- For stains, use a suede-specific cleaner or white vinegar dabbed on a soft cloth.
- Let air dry and brush again to restore texture.
Leather
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Dry immediately with a clean towel.
- Apply leather conditioner periodically to maintain suppleness.
Best Practices and Tips for Keeping Your Vans Clean
- Regularly spot clean: Don’t wait for heavy buildup—regular wipes keep shoes looking newer longer.
- Avoid bleach and harsh detergents: They can damage fabric, color, and glue.
- No dryers: Always air dry to prevent shrinking and puckering.
- Restore whiteness: Toothpaste or baking soda and water can help remove stubborn stains from white rubber soles.
- Store properly: Keep in a cool, dry place to avoid mildew and odor.
When Not To Machine Wash
There are situations where machine washing is a bad idea:
- Shoes with glued-on decorations, embroidery, or delicate details
- Older, fragile pairs—a machine wash can do more harm than good
- Styles marked as “dry-clean only” on the tag
- Suede and leather Vans, to avoid ruining the texture or structure
Trust your judgment and, when uncertain, opt for hand cleaning.
How Often Should You Clean Your Vans?
There’s no strict rule, but a light clean every few weeks will:
– Extend the life of your shoes
– Prevent stains from setting in
– Keep odors under control
For heavy dirt buildup (after hiking, festivals, or sports), clean as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put my Vans in the washing machine every time they get dirty?
No. Frequent machine washes can wear down the fabric, weaken glue, and shorten lifespan. Reserve machine washing for occasional deep cleans, and spot clean regularly.
2. Can I machine dry my Vans after washing them?
Never put Vans in the dryer. The heat can melt soles, cause shrinkage, and warp their shape. Always air dry your Vans.
3. Are detergent pods or bleach safe for washing Vans?
Use mild, liquid detergent—not pods or bleach. Harsh chemicals and bleach can harm colors, fabric, and underlying adhesives.
4. How can I clean suede or leather Vans?
For suede, use a dry suede brush and special suede cleaner. For leather, use a damp cloth and leather conditioner. Never machine wash these materials.
5. What’s the best way to keep white Vans from turning yellow?
Rinse off soap thoroughly to avoid residue, air dry out of direct sunlight, and use baking soda or white vinegar for tough stains. Avoid bleach, which can cause yellowing over time.
Summary
You can machine wash canvas Vans shoes if you follow a few essential precautions to prevent damage. Always remember: use a gentle cycle, wash with cold water, and air dry your shoes away from heat and sunlight. For suede and leather, stick to dedicated cleaning methods.
Being thoughtful about how you clean your Vans will keep them looking—and feeling—fresh much longer. With these tips and tricks, you can confidently care for your favorite sneakers, from classic slip-ons to Old Skool lace-ups, ensuring they keep up with your unique style and busy life.