How To Clean Toms Canvas Shoes

How To Clean Toms Canvas Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever loved a pair of shoes so much you wore them everywhere? Toms canvas shoes are known for their comfort and style, but all that wear and tear can leave them looking a little…loved. Don’t worry, bringing them back to life is easier than you think! This guide will show you exactly how to clean Toms canvas shoes, keeping them looking great for years to come. We’ll cover everything from quick fixes for minor scuffs to a more thorough cleaning process for dirtier shoes. Let’s get started and restore your favorite Toms!

Quick Answer: To clean Toms canvas shoes, mix mild soap with lukewarm water, gently scrub the canvas with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Avoid harsh chemicals and machine washing to preserve the shoe’s shape and color.

Takeaway:

Use mild soap and water for most cleaning.
Avoid harsh chemicals and the washing machine.
Air dry your Toms, away from direct heat.
Protect your Toms with a canvas protector spray.

Understanding Your Toms Canvas Material

Before diving into cleaning, it’s important to understand what your Toms are made of. Most Toms feature a canvas upper, a rubber sole, and often, fabric insoles. Canvas is a durable material, but it’s also porous, meaning it can easily absorb dirt and stains. Knowing this helps you choose the right cleaning methods. Different types of stains require different approaches, so identifying the culprit is the first step. For example, mud needs a different treatment than an oil-based stain.

Quick Spot Cleaning for Everyday Dirt

Sometimes, your Toms just need a little touch-up. For minor dirt or scuffs, quick spot cleaning is the way to go. This prevents small messes from becoming bigger problems. It’s a fast and easy way to maintain your shoes between deeper cleans. Here’s how:

Gather your supplies: You’ll need a soft cloth, a small bowl of lukewarm water, and a tiny amount of mild dish soap.
Mix the solution: Add a drop or two of dish soap to the water and mix gently.
Dab and wipe: Dip the cloth into the soapy water, wring it out well, and gently dab at the dirty areas. Avoid soaking the canvas.
Rinse with a clean cloth: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue.
Air dry: Let your Toms air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat.

Deep Cleaning Your Toms Canvas Shoes

When spot cleaning isn’t enough, it’s time for a deep clean. This is perfect for shoes that are visibly dirty or have stubborn stains. Don’t worry, it’s still a relatively simple process! A thorough cleaning will restore your Toms to their former glory.

Preparing Your Toms for a Deep Clean

First, remove the insoles. These can be cleaned separately (we’ll cover that later!). Loosen any dried mud or dirt with a soft brush. This prevents you from grinding the dirt further into the canvas during the washing process. Removing loose debris makes the cleaning process much more effective.

The Soap and Water Method

This is the most common and effective way to deep clean Toms.

Mix your cleaning solution: In a bowl, combine lukewarm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap.
Scrub gently: Dip a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great!) into the solution and gently scrub the canvas in circular motions. Pay attention to areas with visible dirt or stains.
Rinse thoroughly: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away all the soap residue. You may need to repeat this step several times.
Air dry: Allow your Toms to air dry completely, stuffed with paper towels to help maintain their shape. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause fading or damage.

Cleaning the Insoles and Laces

Don’t forget about the insoles and laces! These often get overlooked, but they can harbor a lot of dirt and bacteria. Keeping them clean contributes to the overall freshness of your shoes.

Insoles: Hand wash the insoles with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely before placing them back in your Toms.
Laces: Remove the laces and either hand wash them or place them in a laundry bag and wash them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Air dry the laces before re-lacing your shoes.

Dealing with Stubborn Stains on Canvas

Sometimes, you’ll encounter stains that require a little extra attention. Here are a few tips for tackling common culprits:

Oil-based stains: Sprinkle baking soda on the stain and let it sit for several hours to absorb the oil. Then, brush it off and clean the area with a mild soap and water solution. You can also find specialized stain removers for canvas.
Mud: Let the mud dry completely, then brush it off. If a stain remains, follow the deep cleaning method described above.
Ink: Dab the stain with rubbing alcohol using a cotton ball. Be careful not to spread the ink. Follow with a soap and water cleaning.

If you’re unsure about a stain, test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the shoe first. This ensures it doesn’t damage the canvas.

Protecting Your Clean Toms

Once your Toms are clean, you’ll want to keep them that way! Protecting them from future dirt and stains is key. Consider these preventative measures:

Canvas protector spray: Apply a canvas protector spray to help repel water and stains. Follow the instructions on the product label.
Regular cleaning: Wipe down your Toms with a damp cloth after each wear to remove any surface dirt.
Proper storage: Store your Toms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Protecting your investment with a good spray can significantly extend the life and appearance of your favorite shoes. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I put my Toms in the washing machine?

A: It’s generally not recommended to machine wash Toms. The agitation can damage the shape of the shoe and potentially cause the glue to come undone. Hand washing is the safest option.

Q: How long does it take for Toms to dry?

A: Toms can take anywhere from 6-24 hours to dry completely, depending on the humidity and temperature. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage the canvas and glue.

Q: What type of soap should I use to clean my Toms?

A: Use a mild laundry detergent or dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the canvas.

Q: Can I use a magic eraser on my Toms?

A: While a magic eraser can be effective on some stains, it’s abrasive and can potentially damage the canvas. Use with caution and test on an inconspicuous area first.

Q: How do I remove odor from my Toms?

A: Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. Vacuum out the baking soda in the morning. You can also use a shoe deodorizer spray.

Conclusion

Keeping your Toms canvas shoes clean doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these simple steps, you can easily remove dirt, stains, and odors, keeping your favorite shoes looking fresh and stylish. Remember to use mild soap and water, avoid harsh chemicals, and always air dry your Toms. Regular cleaning and protection will extend the life of your shoes and ensure they remain a comfortable and fashionable part of your wardrobe. So, go ahead and give your Toms the TLC they deserve – you’ll be glad you did! Now that you know how to clean Toms canvas shoes, you can confidently step out in style, knowing your footwear looks its best.