Ever looked down at your favorite pair of Vans and wished there was an easy way to get them looking fresh again? If you’ve wondered whether tossing them in the washing machine is a shortcut to spotless sneakers—or just a recipe for disaster—you’re not alone.
Knowing the right way to clean your Vans matters if you want them to last. In this article, we’ll answer this common question, walk you through safe cleaning methods, and share insider tips to keep your kicks looking their best.
Can I Wash My Vans in the Washing Machine? A Comprehensive Guide
If you love sporting your classic pair of Vans, it’s only natural to wonder: “Can I wash my Vans in the washing machine?” Keeping your sneakers looking fresh shouldn’t be a mystery, so let’s dive into whether you can machine-wash Vans, the best cleaning methods, and top tips for freshening up your favorite kicks.
The Direct Answer: Should You Wash Vans in the Washing Machine?
In short, it depends—but generally, it’s best to avoid machine washing your Vans, especially if you want to extend their life.
While it might be tempting to toss your dirty Vans in the washer for quick cleaning, this method comes with risks. The materials and construction of Vans shoes, particularly those made of canvas, suede, or leather, can become damaged in a washing machine. Over time, frequent machine washes can weaken the fabric, loosen adhesives, and even cause the soles to detach.
That said, some canvas Vans may survive a gentle machine wash occasionally, but you should always proceed with care, and hand-washing is typically safer and more effective for maintaining their look and structure.
Why Machine Washing Vans Can Be Risky
Machine washing seems like an easy fix for dirty shoes. However, there are several reasons you should reconsider before dropping your Vans in:
- Material Sensitivity: Canvas can fray or fade, suede might become patchy or stiff, and leather can crack.
- Color Bleeding: Vibrant Vans colors and prints may bleed, causing uneven coloring.
- Weakened Structure: Agitation and tumbling can loosen glue binding and destroy the sneaker’s shape.
- Sole Separation: The strong motions in a wash cycle can cause the rubber soles to separate from the upper fabric.
- Longer Dry Times: Waterlogged Vans can take days to dry fully, risking unpleasant odors or even mold.
If You Must Machine Wash Your Vans
Sometimes, life gets messy. If you really need to put your Vans in the washer, follow these steps and precautions to minimize damage:
1. Prepare Your Shoes
- Brush off loose dirt or debris with a soft brush.
- Remove the laces and insoles to clean separately.
- Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase, securing it tightly (this helps prevent friction damage).
2. Set Up the Machine
- Use a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Wash in cold water—hot water can warp or shrink the fabric.
- Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent (avoid bleach or harsh chemicals).
- Toss in a few old towels to balance the load and provide cushioning.
3. Post-Wash Care
- Do NOT use a dryer. High heat can destroy shoe glue and cause shrinkage.
- Allow your Vans to air dry, stuffing them with clean towels or paper to help them keep their shape.
- Re-lace and reinsert the insoles only once fully dry.
Note: Even when following these steps, machine washing should be your last resort, not your regular cleaning method.
The Best Way to Wash Your Vans: Hand Washing
Hand washing offers a gentle, controlled approach that helps your Vans last. Here’s how to do it:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
- Mild detergent
- Warm water
- Clean towels
- Magic eraser or soft sponge (for tough spots)
- Baking soda (optional, for odors)
- White vinegar (optional, for deep stains)
Step-by-Step Hand Washing:
- Remove laces and insoles: This makes cleaning all areas much easier.
- Mix cleaning solution: Combine a small amount of mild detergent with warm water.
- Scrub gently: Use your brush or sponge to clean the canvas, focusing on dirt spots. For rubber soles, a little baking soda sprinkled on your brush works wonders.
- Rinse Carefully: Wipe away soap with a damp cloth (not running water), being careful not to soak the fabric.
- Clean laces and insoles: Soak laces in soapy water and gently scrub. For insoles, wipe with a damp cloth.
- Dry properly: Stuff your Vans with paper towels/cloths to keep their shape, and air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Cleaning Vans: Different Materials Require Different Care
Not all Vans are created the same! Here’s how care varies by material:
Canvas Vans
- Simple to clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid harsh scrubbing that can break fibers
- Do not bleach, as it can discolor
Suede Vans
- Never submerge in water
- Use suede-specific brushes and cleaners
- Remove stains with a suede eraser or a small amount of white vinegar
Leather Vans
- Wipe with a damp cloth
- Use leather cleaner or mild soap as needed
- Apply conditioner after cleaning to prevent cracking
Benefits of Handwashing Over Machine Washing
- Extended Shoe Lifespan: Less wear on glue, soles, and fabric
- Better Stain Control: You can target dirt and avoid over-washing clean areas
- Maintained Appearance: Prevents fading, fraying, and shape loss
- Reduced Risk of Odor and Mold: Shoes dry more effectively
Practical Tips for Keeping Vans Clean
Keep your Vans looking sharp with these everyday habits and pro tips:
- Prevention First: Treat new Vans with a fabric protector spray before using them.
- Spot Clean Regularly: Don’t let mud or stains set; spot clean as soon as possible.
- Alternate Shoes: Give your Vans a break between wears to let them dry and air out.
- Store Smart: Avoid leaving Vans in damp places (like gym bags or car floors).
- Refresh Odor: Sprinkle baking soda inside overnight to absorb moisture and smells.
- Care for Soles: Magic erasers work wonders on white rubber.
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Vans
Some actions can seriously harm your shoes, no matter which cleaning method you prefer:
- Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Avoid high heat (no dryers, no radiators, no direct sunlight).
- Don’t submerge suede or leather completely in water.
- Never use a rough or metal brush, which can scratch or fray the surface.
- Don’t forget to stuff shoes when drying to prevent collapsing.
When Is Professional Cleaning a Good Idea?
If your Vans are delicate, vintage, collector’s items, or heavily stained, consider professional shoe cleaning services. Experts have the tools and knowledge to:
- Remove stains without damaging materials
- Recondition leather or suede
- Repair detached soles or serious damage
Final Thoughts
While the washing machine might seem like a shortcut to fresh sneakers, it’s a gamble for your Vans’ longevity and condition. Hand-washing is almost always the safer, smarter choice—especially for canvas, suede, or leather styles. Keeping up with regular care, quick spot cleaning, and thoughtful drying will help your Vans stay clean, comfortable, and cool for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put my Vans in the dryer after washing?
No, you should never put Vans in the dryer. High heat can warp, shrink, and weaken the glue or materials, leading to damage. Always let them air dry naturally.
2. How often should I clean my Vans?
Regular spot cleaning when dirt appears helps keep Vans fresh. Full cleaning can be done whenever they look visibly dirty or every few months with regular use.
3. Is it safe to use bleach on white canvas Vans?
It’s not recommended. Bleach can weaken fabric fibers and leave yellow stains. Use a mild detergent and baking soda for tough stains instead.
4. Can I use the same method for suede and canvas Vans?
No. Suede is more delicate and shouldn’t get wet. Use specialized suede brushes and minimal water. Canvas can handle gentle scrubbing with soapy water.
5. What’s the best way to prevent my Vans from smelling bad?
Keep them dry between wears. Sprinkle a little baking soda inside them overnight to absorb moisture and odors. Make sure feet are clean and dry before wearing.
With these tips and best practices, you can keep your Vans looking and feeling great—without ever risking them in the spin cycle!