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How To Clean Canvas Shoes (A Step-By-Step Guide)

How To Clean Canvas Shoes (A Step-By-Step Guide)

You just bought a new pair of shoes. You’re excited to go out with your friends and show them off, but then… you step in some mud. 

Nothing’s more frustrating than getting your shoes dirty. Unfortunately, over time, canvas shoes will collect dirt and dust which take away from their appearance.

So, how do you clean canvas shoes?

Let’s take a look!

What You’ll Need

Before you can start cleaning your canvas shoes, you’ll need to make sure you have the right supplies. 

To follow the steps below, you’ll need:

  • A large bowl filled with warm water.
  • 1 Scoop of laundry detergent.
  • Scrubbing brush.
  • Toothbrush.
  • White toothpaste or stain remover.

1. Fill A Large Bowl With Warm Water

First, find a bowl large enough to fit at least one shoe at a time. Fill it up with warm water. Be careful not to fill it too full or else water will spill over the sides when you add the shoe. It’s best if the bowl is large enough so that the shoe can be completely submerged in the water. 

2. Add Laundry Detergent to The Water

Next, add some laundry detergent to the bowl of water and mix it thoroughly. Any detergent powder or liquid will do. If you use powder, one scoop should be enough. For liquid, about 30ml will suffice. 

3. Place Shoes in The Bowl

Now, let your shoes soak in the mixture of warm water and laundry detergent for about five minutes. This will help raise the dirt and grime out of the canvas to make it easier to scrub out.


4. Gently Scrub The Exterior Of The Shoe With a Brush

Using a brush, begin scrubbing any dirt spots on the shoe. For best results, scrub in a circular motion. 

5. Use a Toothbrush, Toothpaste, And/Or Stain-Remover To Scrub Stains

Believe it or not, toothpaste can actually help remove stains from your shoes. Conventional stain-removers will work as well. 

Apply the toothpaste or stain-remover to any stains or tough dirt spots on the shoe. Then, use a circular motion to scrub the area with the toothbrush. 

6. Rinse Shoes With Clean Water

Now, rinse the detergent, stain-remover, and foam from the shoe with clean water.

7. Dry Naturally

If you have the time, it’s best to let shoes dry naturally. You can put them outside in the shade and they should be dry within a few hours. 

If you’re in a rush, some shoes can go in the dryer - just make sure to check the product information to verify if your shoes are safe for machine drying first. 

Time To Upgrade Your Footwear?

UIN offers a range of stylish footwear. All of our unique patterns are created using Inkjet technology, so they always look new!


UIN shoes are easy to clean, lightweight, and extremely comfortable. 


👉You can check out some of our top-selling shoes on this page


17 comments


  • Janice

    I have several new pairs of Uin painted canvas shoes. Can I spray them with scotch guard fabric shield or other shoe sprays for protection from water or stains?


  • Colleen Marie Borts

    I purchased the white UIN shoes and love them. However, they became dirty pretty quickly so I washed them exactly as instructed. Unfortunately the dye from the inside heel portion bleed onto the white fabric. I’m so disappointed as these were by far my favorite shoes. I will not be able to wear them now unless I’m just working around my house.


  • Colleen Marie Borts

    I purchase the white UIN shoes and love them. However, they became dirty pretty quickly so I washed them exactly as instructed. Unfortunately the die from the inside heel portion bleed onto the white fabric. I’m so disappointed as these were by far my favorite shoes. I will not be able to wear them now unless I’m just working around my house.


  • Mary Bennett

    Love these shoes —have hold that color and sunflower— plan to get more. They are light and comfy—have gotten many compliments.


  • Sandra Story

    I have four pairs of these shoes. I washed them fairly regularly in my front load washer. I simply put a spot of liquid soap on any serious stains, take the pads out, toss both into the washer with a towel, wash on a moderate cycle with warm or cool water. I also routinely use vinegar as a fabric rinse. I dry them on a boot dryer which circulates warm air and we are fine to go. My favorite pair has probably been washed this way 6 to 10 times and are just fine. I figure these shoes are for wearing and if eventually they have to be replaced that just means I love them all the more. Warning, I don’t know how this would work in a topload washer as I have only had front loaders for 30 years or more. I also have several synthetic Travelon purses that I routinely wash this way.


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How To Clean Canvas Shoes (A Step-By-Step Guide)