White canvas sneakers are effortlessly stylish, comfortable, and versatile enough to match almost any casual outfit. The only catch? They attract dirt and scuffs like a magnet. Because cotton canvas is naturally porous and absorbent, spills and grime soak into the fibers quickly.

Don’t give up on your favorite kicks just because they’ve lost their initial shine. With a little care and the right technique, you can easily lift deep-set grime and bring them back to life. Here are two practical, tried-and-true methods to get your white canvas shoes sparkling clean.

Method 1: The Hand-Washing Technique

For regular maintenance or delicate pairs, gentle hand washing is the safest and most effective way to restore canvas shoes without warping their shape.

1. Let mud and dirt dry completely before cleaning. Trying to scrub wet mud will only push the grime deeper into the cotton fabric. Once everything is dry, clap the soles together outside to shake off dried dirt. Use an old toothbrush to flick away stubborn crusts and debris along seams and crevices.

2. Unlace your shoes. Pull the shoelaces out entirely. Fill a small bowl with warm water, add a few drops of mild laundry detergent, and let the laces soak. If the laces are frayed or beyond saving, you can simply swap them out for an inexpensive new pair and save the old ones for quick DIY cord ties.

3. Tackle the rubber soles first. In a small bowl, mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a smooth paste. Dip your toothbrush into the paste and work it into the rubber foxing, toe caps, and edges using small circular motions. Wipe clean with a damp rag.

4. Prepare your cleaning solution. Fill a washbasin or sink with cool water and stir in a small splash of liquid laundry detergent until suds form.

5. Scrub the canvas gently. Dip your soft-bristled toothbrush into the soapy water. Begin working on the fabric, scrubbing in small circular motions starting from the outer edge of any stain toward the center—this keeps the stain from spreading outwards.

• Pro Tip: An old electric toothbrush works wonders here, doing the heavy scrubbing for you with minimal effort.

Rinse the brush frequently and continue until the canvas looks visibly brighter. When you’re happy with the results, wipe or lightly rinse the exterior with clean, cold water until no soapy residue remains. Be thorough, as leftover soap can dry into yellow watermarks. Try to avoid saturating the interior lining during this step.

6. Air-dry properly. Place your shoes in a warm, well-ventilated spot out of harsh, direct sunlight. Balconies, breezy porches, or rooms with good airflow are ideal.

• Stuff rolled paper towels or clean white cloths inside the toe boxes to help them retain their original shape as they dry.
• Never put damp canvas shoes on your feet; let them dry 100% through to prevent odors.

7. Rinse and hang the laces. Give the soaked laces a quick scrub between your fingers, rinse them under running water, and hang them up to dry. Once everything is crisp and dry, relace your shoes and enjoy your refreshed pair.

Method 2: Cleaning Canvas Shoes in the Washing Machine

If your sneakers are heavily soiled and you’re short on time, a delicate machine cycle can do the hard work for you.

1. Knock off surface dirt. Just like the hand-wash method, let mud dry fully and clap the soles together. Brush off loose crusts and dried dirt clumps beforehand so your washer doesn’t get clogged with sediment.

2. Pre-treat the soles. Use a baking soda and water paste on a toothbrush to quickly buff out rubber scuffs before putting the shoes into the drum.

3. Set your machine to cold and gentle. Always choose a delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water to protect the shoe glue and prevent canvas shrinkage.

4. Add a gentle detergent. Pour in roughly half the detergent amount you would normally use for a small load. Avoid harsh bleach or heavy additives, which can leave yellowish discoloration behind.

5. Wash with a towel or mesh bag. Place your shoes into a mesh laundry bag, or throw in a couple of old white towels. This softens the tumbling noise and keeps the shoes from bouncing violently against the drum.

6. Air-dry naturally. Never put canvas shoes in an automatic dryer or right next to direct heating vents—the intense heat will shrink the fabric, warp the insoles, and melt the sole adhesive. Set them in an airy room or in indirect sunlight to dry.

7. Lace up and step out. Once fully dry, your white canvas sneakers will look refreshed, clean, and ready for your next outfit.