A pair of white Vans can be a simple way to round out a casual weekend outfit, but hinging your look on these sneakers can come with a challenge. After all, keeping all-white shoes looking new requires consistent upkeep. To make the job a little easier, we’ve put together a simple guide on how to clean your beloved pair of white Vans in four easy steps. Best yet, keeping your favorite pair of sneakers crisp and clean doesn’t require any harsh chemicals or major elbow grease. Read on to learn how to clean white Vans in four simple steps.
Cleaning white Vans should be almost as effortless as wearing them. To get started, here’s what you’ll need:
2 bowls
Clean water
Laundry detergent
1 scrub brush
1 clean towel
Start by combining 2 cups of warm water with 1/4 cup of laundry detergent. Dip a scrub brush into the liquid solution, and then gently rub the surface of the shoes. Consider using an old toothbrush to clean the surface of the rubber soles. To expedite the process, keep another bowl of clean, warm water on hand to dip the scrub brush into periodically. This will deter dirt or grime from spreading over the fabric of the shoes.
Once your Vans have been scrubbed down, dampen a clean towel and wipe down the surface of the shoes. If you notice lingering stains, simply repeat. Another option is to bring in a stain remover. Follow any advanced measures with wiping down the surface with clean water to avoid discoloration or residue.
While it may be tempting to accelerate the drying process, allowing your shoes to dry naturally is essential for properly cleaning white Vans. To help the shoes keep their shape and aid in the absorption of excess moisture, stuff the shoes with wadded newspaper, and then set them in a cool, dry place outside of direct sunlight or heat.
If you’re short on time (or don’t have the patience for DIY remedies), you can place your white Vans in a mesh bag for delicates and run them through a gentle, warm-water cycle in the washing machine. Be sure to wash them alone and add 1/4 cup of detergent. Once the wash cycle finishes, let them air-dry.
Want to start from scratch? Shop new white Vans sneakers below.
Up next, learn how to clean your white leather shoes.
This post has been updated by Anna LaPlaca.
