How to Wash Converse in the Washing Machine
Knowing how to wash Converse in the washing machine doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
Like many sneaker enthusiasts, you might worry about the best way to clean your shoes without ruining them.
The good news is that Converse can endure a gentle cycle in the washing machine, though the company generally recommends hand washing.
By taking the right precautions, you can keep your Converse looking fresh and clean without much fuss.
Before you start the washing process, remember that preparing your shoes properly is just as important as the wash itself.
Remove the laces and insoles, brush off excess dirt, and consider placing your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
This will help to protect your Converse and the washing machine during the cleaning cycle.
Choose a mild detergent and set your machine to a low or gentle cycle to keep your sneakers in top shape.
How to Wash Converse in the Washing Machine
Washing your Converse in the washing machine is doable with the right preparation and steps.
It’s important to be cautious to maintain the integrity of your shoes.
Remove Laces and Insoles
Before you toss your Converse into the machine, you need to remove the laces and insoles.
This is because they require a more gentle cleaning method, without the tumbling action of the washing machine which might damage them.
- Pluck out the insoles.
- Unlace your shoes entirely.
Consider washing the laces separately by hand or placing them in a laundry mesh bag.
Pre-Treat Stains
Next, tackle any visible stains:
- Mix a solution of mild soap and water.
- Dip an old toothbrush or soft cloth in the solution.
- Gently scrub the stained areas.
For tougher stains, you may apply a paste of baking soda and water before scrubbing.
Choose a Suitable Washing Bag
To protect your Converse and washing machine:
- Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
- Opt for a gentle cycle on your washing machine with cold water.
- Use mild detergent with no bleach to preserve the color and fabric of your shoes.
After the cycle ends, air dry your Converse—do not put them in the dryer as high heat can warp them.
Selecting the Proper Wash Settings
When washing your Converse in a machine, you need to select the right detergent, washing cycle, and water temperature to ensure a thorough clean without damaging your shoes.
Choose the Right Detergent
- Mild Detergent: Opt for a gentle, mild laundry detergent.
- Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric and color of your Converse.
- Dosage: Use only the recommended amount to avoid excess soap residue, which can attract dirt.
Set the Correct Washing Machine Cycle
- Gentle Cycle: Always use a gentle or delicate cycle to prevent the shoes from banging around too much.
- Spin Speed: A low spin speed helps to reduce the risk of warping the shape of your shoes.
Adjust Water Temperature
- Cold Water: Stick to cold water for washing your Converse as it prevents colors from fading and reduces the chance of the glue melting, which could deconstruct your shoes.
Washing and Rinsing Process
In this section, we’ll guide you through the proper steps to safely wash and rinse your Converse shoes in the washing machine.
Place Shoes in the Washing Machine
Before you start the wash cycle, prepare your Converse for the machine.
Remove any loose dirt and debris by gently knocking the soles together and using a brush to clean off excess mud or grime.
Take out the laces and either place them in a mesh laundry bag or wash them separately to avoid tangling.
For the shoes, it’s best to place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent damage during the wash.
Start the Wash Cycle
Select a gentle cycle on your washing machine and use cold water to avoid damaging the glue that holds your Converse together.
Add a small amount of mild detergent—there’s no need for bleach unless you’re specifically tackling tough stains on a white pair.
If that’s the case, make sure to dilute the bleach properly as per the instructions.
Run the shoes through the wash without any heavy items like towels or denim, which could potentially harm the shoes.
Ensure Proper Rinsing
Once the wash cycle is complete, it’s crucial to rinse your shoes thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
If your washing machine doesn’t double rinse, you may want to run a separate rinse cycle.
This helps to prevent any soap from drying and leaving marks on the canvas of your Converse.
After rinsing, take the shoes out of the mesh bag and let them air dry.
Avoid using a dryer, as the high heat can warp the shape of your sneakers.
Drying Your Converse
After your Converse sneakers have gone through a gentle wash cycle, it’s important to dry them properly to maintain their shape and appearance.
Remove Shoes from Washing Bag
Once the wash cycle is complete, carefully remove your Converse from the washing bag.
Gently shake off any excess water and pat them down with an absorbent towel to remove surface moisture.
Air Drying Technique
- Place them in a well-ventilated area: Arrange your shoes so they are open and the inside is exposed to air.
- Stuff with paper: Fill the insides with white paper or paper towels to absorb moisture and help maintain their shape while drying.
- Avoid using colored paper as it may bleed into your sneakers.
Avoid Direct Heat Sources
Never place Converse near direct heat as this can warp the rubber soles and fade the canvas fabric.
- No radiators, stoves, or blow dryers: Heat can damage the materials of your shoes.
- Do not leave in direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure can weaken the fabric and alter the color of your sneakers.
Post-Wash Care
Once your Converse are washed, proper care is key to maintain their look and shape.
This next phase after cleaning is just as important as the wash itself.
Check for Remaining Stains
After washing, inspect your Converse for any lingering stains before they dry.
If you see spots that didn’t come out, you can treat them with a spot cleaner or a mixture of water and baking soda.
Apply gently with a toothbrush, then rinse clean.
Re-lace Shoes
Once your Converse are stain-free and clean, it’s time to re-lace them.
Start from the toe end and work your way up, ensuring that the laces are even and not twisted.
This gives a neat appearance and ensures your shoes are comfortable to wear.
Shape Retention and Storage
For optimal shape retention, stuff your shoes with white paper towels while they air dry.
It helps maintain the form and absorb excess moisture.
Always air dry away from direct heat and sunlight to avoid discoloration or warping.
Once dry, store your Converse in a cool, dry place to keep them ready for your next wear.
Key Takeaways
- Preparation: Before placing your Converse in the washing machine, remove the laces and insoles.
- Then, brush off any excess dirt to prevent it from spreading.
- Cleaning Solution: It’s recommended to use a mild detergent.
- For white Converse, baking soda can be added to help remove stains.
- Protective Bagging: Place your shoes and laces inside a washable bag or pillowcase to avoid damage during the wash cycle.
- Wash Settings: Select a gentle cycle and use cold water to prevent any damage to the glue or fabric.
- Drying: After washing, do not use a dryer.
- Instead, air dry your Converse to prevent warping or shrinking.
- Also, stuffing them with paper towels can help maintain their shape while drying.
