How to Wash Canvas Shoes Without Shrinking or Fading Them

Canvas shoes — from classic Converse to everyday slip-ons — are one of the most washable shoe materials there is. But done wrong, you end up with shrunken, faded, or misshapen shoes. Here’s the right way.

Can Canvas Shoes Go in the Washing Machine?

Yes — canvas is one of the most machine-friendly shoe materials. Pure canvas uppers (Converse, Vans, and similar styles) handle machine washing very well on cold water gentle cycles. The risks come from heat, not the water itself.

Before You Wash: Pre-Treatment

• Remove laces and wash separately
• Remove insoles and hand wash them separately
• Brush off dry dirt with a stiff brush
• Pre-treat stains with liquid detergent — let sit 10–15 minutes

Machine Washing Canvas Shoes: Step by Step

Step 1: Use a Shoe Laundry Bag

Place both shoes in a Fluffie shoe laundry bag. Canvas shoes still need protection from drum impact and from rubbing against machine walls during spin cycles.

Step 2: Add Towels, Cold Water, Gentle Cycle

Add 2–3 old towels to balance the load. Set to cold water and the gentlest cycle available. Warm or hot water is the main cause of canvas shrinkage — always use cold.

Step 3: Liquid Detergent — Small Amount

Use a small amount of liquid detergent. Powder gets trapped in canvas weave and leaves white residue or dulls colors.

Step 4: Air Dry Stuffed with Newspaper

Stuff shoes with newspaper or paper towels immediately after washing. This helps them hold shape and absorbs moisture. Dry in a ventilated area away from direct sunlight (which fades colors). Allow 12–24 hours.

How to Prevent Canvas Shoes from Shrinking

• Always use cold water for washing and rinsing
• Never put canvas shoes in the dryer
• Don’t place near a radiator or use a hot air blower to speed drying
• Stuff shoes while wet to maintain shape as they dry

The Fluffie shoe laundry bag makes machine washing canvas shoes safe, effective, and easy — protecting your shoes while they get the deep clean they need.