Fabric shoes are a stylish and comfortable choice for many occasions. However, their material can easily attract dirt and stains, diminishing their appeal. Knowing how to properly clean your fabric shoes is essential to keep them looking fresh and extend their lifespan. Many online tutorials suggest throwing fabric shoes into a washing machine, but this can be detrimental, weakening the glue that secures the sole and potentially damaging the shoe. This guide provides a safe and effective method to clean your fabric shoes by hand, suitable for both fabric-lined and fully fabric shoes.
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s gather the necessary materials. This gentle cleaning method uses items you likely already have at home.
Materials You’ll Need
- Fabric Shoes (not recommended for velvet or brocade)
- Lukewarm Water
- Soft Toothbrush
- Delicate Liquid Laundry Detergent
- Paper Towels
- Small Bowl
Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step guide to restore your fabric shoes to their former glory.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Fabric Shoes
Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Begin by filling your bowl with lukewarm water. Take your delicate liquid laundry detergent and apply a small amount directly onto the bristles of your soft toothbrush.
Next, dip the toothbrush into the bowl of lukewarm water and swirl it around. This action will help to dissolve the detergent evenly in the water, creating a mild and effective cleaning solution.
Step 2: Gently Scrub the Shoes
Shake off most of the water from your toothbrush. The key to cleaning fabric shoes effectively without damage is to use minimal water. You want the brush to be damp, not soaking wet. With the damp, detergent-infused toothbrush, gently scrub the soiled areas of your shoes. Use back-and-forth strokes, following the fabric’s grain, to lift dirt and grime. You’ll notice a light sudsing as you clean.
Continue to brush and scrub the entire surface of each shoe, paying extra attention to heavily soiled spots. Redampen your toothbrush in the cleaning solution as needed, always ensuring to shake off excess water. You’ll see the dirt starting to lift, revealing cleaner fabric underneath.
Step 3: Rinse Off Excess Detergent
Once you’ve thoroughly scrubbed your shoes and they appear cleaner, it’s time to rinse off any residual detergent. Empty the soapy water from your bowl, rinse the bowl and your toothbrush thoroughly, and refill the bowl with clean, non-soapy lukewarm water.
Dampen your toothbrush again with clean water, making sure it’s barely damp. Using short, brisk strokes, brush from the back of the shoe towards the front. This action will effectively brush off any lingering detergent. You might notice a spray of water flicking off as you do this, indicating detergent removal. Rinse your toothbrush frequently in the clean water to remove the detergent it picks up from the shoes, and tap it to remove excess water each time.
Step 4: Dry Your Shoes Properly
After brushing off all the detergent, take paper towels and pat and wipe down your shoes, both inside and out. This step helps to absorb any remaining dampness.
Next, crumple up several pieces of paper towel and stuff them inside each shoe. This is crucial for two reasons: it helps the shoes retain their shape as they dry and it aids in absorbing any remaining moisture from the inside.
Finally, place your shoes in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Avoid direct heat or sunlight, as these can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. Allow them to air dry naturally.
Once your shoes are fully dry, remove the paper towel stuffing and admire your freshly cleaned fabric shoes! You’ll notice a significant difference in their appearance.
This simple yet effective cleaning method can make a world of difference in the look of your fabric shoes, keeping them looking newer for longer.
By following these steps, you can confidently clean your fabric shoes at home, avoiding harsh washing machine cycles and preserving their quality and appearance. Enjoy your revitalized footwear!
