White canvas shoes are an essential in your child’s wardrobe as they are smart, comfy, fashionable, and go well with a variety of casual and sporty outfits. However, being the color they are, these shoes tend to get dirty or yellow easily. So, how to clean white canvas shoes effectively? This write-up turns the spotlight on the different solutions you can try. How often you have to do it depends on the usage though. If your munchkin wears them daily, you need to clean the shoes once a week. If the usage is occasional, once-a-month cleaning will be enough.  

Now, let’s dive into each method of cleaning one by one.

Baking Soda and Vinegar/Toothpaste  

To try this method, you need warm water, white vinegar, baking soda, a soft brush, a toothbrush, and soft cloths. Keep a tube of all-white toothpaste handy as well for effective cleaning. Then follow these steps:

• Scrub the baby canvas shoes with the soft brush to eliminate any loose dirt that might be hanging on to them. Focus on the soles and surface especially.
• In a bowl, mix a cup of warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Once the fizz dies down, the solution will be ready for use. Alternatively, you can use toothpaste that contains baking soda.
• If you are going with the vinegar mixture, dip a toothbrush or cloth in it and scrub the shoes with the same. This solution is apt for both the soles and fabric. Make sure dirt doesn’t spread from one part to another by cleaning the toothbrush or cloth repeatedly.
• If you decide to use toothpaste, apply it on the dirty or stained spots with a clean toothbrush. Adopt a circular motion. Let the toothpaste act for about 15 minutes after you are done scrubbing.
• Finally, dampen a soft cloth and use it to brush away the dried up toothpaste or the vinegar solution from the baby canvas shoes.
• Let the pair dry in air before storage or letting your child use them. Stuff newspaper or paper towels inside to absorb moisture quickly and retain the shape of the shoes.
• In case of shoes with laces, remove them before commencing the cleaning process and soak them in the vinegar and baking soda solution. Once you are done cleaning the shoes, wash the laces separately and air-dry them.

Magic Eraser/Stain Remover

Wondering how to clean white canvas shoes with little effort? Get hold of a Magic Eraser or stain remover, paper towels, and follow these steps:  

• Slightly wet a paper towel and wipe the outside of the canvas shoes with a gentle motion to get rid of big dirt particles. Then air-dry the pair for around 10 minutes.
• Make the Magic Eraser wet but squeeze out any excess water so that it’s damp but not dripping. In case of another stain remover, follow the instructions on it.
• Rub stained or dirty spots with the Eraser using moderate pressure, so you get the shoes clean without damaging the fabric.
• Next, scrub the soles of the shoes along with the bottom edges with the Eraser, until all stains and dirt marks are gone.
• Let the white canvas shoes dry in open air with paper towels or crumpled newspaper stuffed inside them.

Dish Soap/Laundry Detergent

To clean baby canvas shoes this way, get hold of a mild laundry detergent or dish soap, a soft brush, and a toothbrush or soft cloth. Keep a bowl with warm water handy. Then do as follows:

• Use a clean toothbrush or soft brush to brush away loose dirt from the surface of the canvas shoes. Be gentle and pay attention to the soles, tongues, and edges.
• In a bowl, prepare a solution with a tablespoon of mild dish soap with warm water. Or you can use a capful of laundry detergent instead.
• Use a toothbrush or cloth to apply the cleaning solution to the surface of the shoes. Focus on a small area every time. Use a circular and tender motion to remove stains.
• With a damp cloth, wipe away the soapy solution from the shoes finally.
• Allow the pair to dry in the air after stuffing paper towels or newspaper inside for absorbing the moisture fast.
• If the shoes feature laces, get them out before starting with the first step and soak them in the soapy solution. After cleaning the shoes, wash the laces and air-dry them separately.

Washing Machine

How to clean white canvas shoes without using your hands? Your washing machine can help, unless the pair comes with embellishments like sequins, beads, etc. Here’s what to do:

• Take out laces (if any) and soak them in a solution of warm water and laundry detergent separately. Don’t put them in the machine.
• Then put the shoes in a bag reserved for delicate garments and throw them into the machine along with a capful of mild detergent. Avoid adding anything else for a wash.
• Run the machine on the gentlest cycle possible with cold water. This way, the glue in the shoes won’t weaken and the white color will last.
• Then air-dry the pair after stuffing them with crushed newspaper or paper towels.
• Wash the laces and dry them in open air separately.

Keeping White Canvas Shoes Clean Can Be Simple

So, by now, you know how to clean white canvas shoes efficiently and in different ways. Remember that for deep cleaning, you might need to dunk the shoes in a solution of liquid detergent, dish wash, or baking soda and vinegar. Make sure to rinse and dry out the shoes thoroughly in such cases. To keep baby canvas shoes clean for as long as possible, avoid putting them on your child when it is raining or muddy outside. Use a protective spray that repels liquid spills, mud, and dirt. Always store the shoes in a dry and cool place and use disinfecting sprays and powders to keep them smelling fresh.  

And if your munchkin needs a new pair of canvas shoes or boots or sneakers, check out what is available at Jack & Lily. For suggestions or guidance, you can also contact the professionals here.

When it comes to kids’ shoes, leather and canvas are the most popular materials being used these days. They both have distinct benefits and offer your little one’s feet the support and comfort necessary for unhindered growth and development. However, while shopping for children’s footwear, you might be wondering – is it better to have leather shoes or canvas shoes? The right answer can help you make an informed decision for sure.

So, let’s delve deeper into the pros and cons of each material here. This way, you can pick the right pair for your tiny one after a quick comparison. 

Pros and Cons of Leather Shoes for Kids

A classic and time-tested material, leather has the following benefits:

• Durable: Genuine and top-quality leather lasts for years and can tough it out in harsh environments. Usually, it lasts longer than canvas.
• Breathable: Since leather allows air to pass through easily, shoes made of this material let your child’s feet breathe and keep them cool. You won’t have to worry about smelly or sweaty feet this way.
• Good Fit: While wondering about is it better to have leather shoes or canvas shoes, remember that leather ones adapt to the shape of your feet and lend much-needed comfort and support.
• Resistant to Liquids: Leather shoes can repel water and other fluids if you wax and treat them regularly. So, even if your child loves skipping in puddles, their feet won’t get wet.
• Hassle-Free to Clean: You just need a damp piece of cloth to clean leather toddler shoes. Being breathable, they dry up fast as well.
• Offers Additional Protection: Leather, being a sturdy material, can protect your kiddo’s feet against injuries and accidents caused by falling objects or sharp bumps on the road. It can also keep those little tootsies safe if your child spills something hot on their feet.
• Environment-Friendly: As it is a natural material, leather is safe for the environment, and the manufacturing process doesn’t involve the emission of any poisonous gases.
• Stylish: Kids’ shoes crafted with leather look stylish, shiny, and sleek. They are a great choice for both formal and casual occasions and can complement different outfits too.

Now that you know about the benefits of leather shoes, it’s time to take a look at the aspects that are not so advantageous:

• Requires Regular Maintenance: If not cleaned, waxed, polished, and conditioned on a regular basis, leather shoes can dry out and crack. So, you need to take good care of them.
• Costly: Shoes made of leather are usually more expensive than those made of other materials. However, since leather lasts long and can withstand unfavorable weather conditions too, it is worth investing in a single pair of such shoes rather than two or three made of another material.

Pros and Cons of Canvas Shoes for Kids

The debate on is it better to have leather shoes or canvas shoes can only reach a conclusion once you know about the benefits and disadvantages of the latter. Canvas is widely used for sneakers and casual shoes these days, so let’s take a look at the pros first:

• Light in Weight: Toddler canvas shoes are usually super light, which makes them comfortable and apt for free movement.
• Easy on the Pocket: Shoes made of canvas are generally less expensive than their leather counterparts and this makes them a good pick if you are shopping on a budget.
• Breathable: Like leather, canvas is a highly breathable material and allows air to pass through smoothly. So, your child’s feet will stay cool, dry, and fresh for hours.
• Easy to Maintain: It is easy to throw canvas shoes into the washing machine for a good cleaning whenever they get dirty. Hence, these shoes are perfect for casual or rough use.
• Offers Wide Variety: Toddler canvas shoes come in a wide array of colors and fun patterns, as the material absorbs dyes easily. You can pick up a different style, design, or shade for different occasions and outfits.
• Retains Shape: Canvas is not very stretchy, which means shoes made of this retain their shape well. Your child won’t need inserts or other supportive materials for a long time.

Now that you know about the advantages, let’s go through the less-than-great aspects of canvas shoes: 

• Lack of Ankle Support: Since canvas is thin compared to leather, shoes made of this material are not ideal for sporty activities as they don’t offer ample ankle support.
• Not as Durable: Canvas shoes are less durable than leather ones on an average. They tend to wear out fast especially when worn regularly. Hence, you might have to buy more pairs than in case of leather.
• Prone to Staining: The material stains more easily than leather. And while it is no-fuss to clean canvas shoes in the washing machine, it can be difficult to get rid of stubborn stains.

What to Remember for Both Leather and Canvas Shoes

Whether you go for leather or canvas shoes for kids, getting the size and fit right for both is important. So, make sure your measure your child’s feet accurately and opt for shoes that are flexible and complement natural movement. Whether the pair is made of leather or canvas, ensure ample toe space and anti-skid outer soles to prevent accidents and injuries. Irrespective of the material, consider shoes with Velcro straps, buttons, or laces, so they can be adjusted to your child’s growing feet.  

Is It Better to Have Leather Shoes or Canvas Shoes?

So, what’s the final verdict – should you go for toddler canvas shoes or leather ones? It all depends on your little one’s needs, activity, occasion, preference, and your budget. While leather shoes are durable, extra protective, water-resistant, and align easily with the shape of the feet, they are a little more expensive and need regular maintenance. Canvas shoes, on the other hand, are light, affordable, available in a wide variety, and retain shape over time. They, however, stain easily, wear out faster, and offer less ankle support. But if you go for top-quality pairs, you will find both materials to be worth the investment.

For instance, check out the awesome collection of both leather and canvas shoes at Jack & Lily. You can also contact the professionals here if you can’t make up your mind and need more guidance.