How to Clean White Vans Shoes: 7 Steps to Keep Your Kicks Fresh

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Vans shoes look stylish, but keeping them looking that way requires consistent upkeep. White shoes in particular stain easily.

We’ve already shown you how to clean white Nike shoes and sneakers, but Vans makes it even easier thanks to the great cleaning products that you can purchase at Vans.

Justin Bieber, Selma Blair, and Emma Roberts wear Vans shoesJustin Bieber, Selma Blair, and Emma Roberts wear Vans shoes

1. Protect Your Sneakers Right Out of the Box

Formulated to provide an invisible barrier against moisture and stains, the water and stain shield is ideal for shoes made from canvas, cotton, suede, nubuck, leather, mesh, or nylon.

Since it creates an invisible layer that protects your shoes from dirt, stains, and liquids, you should use it before you wear your shoes for the first time.

Water & Stain Shield, Foaming Cleaner, Refresher, and Shoe BrushWater & Stain Shield, Foaming Cleaner, Refresher, and Shoe Brush

2. Store Your Shoes Properly

To protect your white shoes and sneakers from microscopic dust and dirt, make sure you store your shoes properly in shoe bags or boxes.

3. Foaming Cleaner and Shoe Sponge

Both products are specially formulated to remove dirt and stains from Vans shoes to keep them looking like new. They are ideal for cleaning white rubber bumpers and can also be used on uppers and soles.

4. Scuff Eraser & Brush

They are essential for keeping suede and nubuck shoes clean and looking their best every day. The scuff eraser removes dirt and grime and the shoe brush dusts away surface dirt and raises the nap on your footwear for optimum appearance.

Especially for knit, mesh, and canvas shoes, brushing too hard may loosen fabrics and make your shoes look worn-out. Apply light, rapid strokes with a relatively soft bristle brush or an old toothbrush.

Vans Scuff Eraser & Brush KitVans Scuff Eraser & Brush Kit

5. Freshen and Deodorize

To to keep your sneakers smelling fresh, consider the Vans Refresher that can also be used on backpacks, hats, and other accessories.

6. Make Your Own Formula

You can try using products like dish soap, baking soda, vinegar, toothpaste, lukewarm water, and a toothbrush to clean your shoes at home. If you do not have shoe cleaning products readily available, a homemade cleaning solution can provide a temporary fix if you’re in a bind.

7. Clean Regularly

If you wear your sneakers several times a week, tend to your beloved sneakers on a regular basis. Keeping white Vans shoes looking new requires consistent upkeep.

Vans Shoe Care Travel Kit, $17.95 at Vans

Vans Cleaning Products

Credit: Michael Wright / WENN