Can You Dry Clean Shoes?

Dry Cleaning Shoes

One of the main pieces of an outfit is a person’s shoes. Having clean, fresh-looking shoes can make or break an entire outfit. So what do you do when your shoes get dirty? Should you just get rid of them and buy a new pair or is it better to try and clean your shoes? Luckily, just like clothes and other fabrics, shoes can also be cleaned. 

Although there are ways that you can clean your shoes yourself, taking your shoes to the dry cleaner can be very beneficial. These experienced professionals have an extensive amount of knowledge on fabrics, stain removal, the type of chemicals to use for specific fabrics, and the proper way to wash different articles such as bedding and shoes. Before loading up your shoes to drop off at your local dry cleaners, it is always recommended that you call and verify that they offer that service beforehand. 

Tennis Shoes 

Tennis shoes are one of the most common shoes that people wear daily and they tend to get the dirtiest compared to other shoes. Tennis shoes are very durable and can be washed by either machine or by hand. If your tennis shoes get too loud in the washing machine, throw in some towels and blankets to help eliminate the noise. Make sure that you turn your washer to the delicate setting and use cold water when washing your tennis shoes. 

Leather Shoes

Leather shoes are what most dress shoes are made out of. These shoes are typically worn to business settings or on special occasions so it is imperative that these shoes stay in their best condition. Make sure to polish your leather shoes; this not only helps to keep up their appearance, but also to create a barrier to any scuff marks that you might get while wearing them. Using a soft cloth with a shoe leather cleaner or even dish soap can help to keep your leather shoes polished and clean. 

Canvas Shoes

Much like tennis shoes, canvas shoes are extremely durable and can withstand at-home washing. If your canvas shoes have a stain, spot treat the stain using a few drops of soap or detergent and scrub. Typically, you will wash canvas shoes the same way as tennis shoes, unless the tag specifically states otherwise. 

Suede Shoes

Suede shoes can be rather difficult to clean because there is a chance that water will do more harm than good. When it comes to cleaning suede shoes, you must also strictly follow the directions telling you which direction you need to clean them. Taking your suede shoes to a professional at the dry cleaners is the best way to handle them. Dry cleaners will have special chemicals and methods that they use to have your suede shoes looking new again. 

Tips and Tricks for Cleaning Shoes

• Ensure that you use a mild laundry detergent. This helps to prevent any discoloration on your shoes. 
• If you have all white shoes, clean them gently using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser prior to washing them any soap and water. 
• If you are using a toothbrush or a scrub brush, ensure that they have soft and synthetic bristles. 
• Switch out your shoe laces regularly. 
• Do NOT forget to deodorize the inside of your shoes. To deodorize your shoe, you can use deodorizing shoe spray, baking soda, or dryer sheets. 
• Cotton and acetone-based nail polish remover can be used to clean the rubber bottoms of your tennis shoes, Vans, and Converse. 

For shoes that are too delicate for your washing machine or just to save yourself the hassle, trust their care and cleaning to Hangers Cleaners. Hangers Cleaners is here to help you with any of your laundry needs. Whether it is your clothes, bedding, or shoes, we have got you covered! Call us at 501-227-8500 to schedule your free laundry pick-up and delivery today.