The manufacturer officially advises against machine washing Converse shoes, as it can damage the canvas, cause colors to run, and lead to shrinkage.
You dropped a scoop of ice cream on your favorite Chucks, and now they smell a little funky. The washing machine is right there, and it seems like the easiest fix.
But before you toss them in, there’s a clear answer from the brand itself. This article explains why Converse warns against machine washing and what to do instead.
What The Manufacturer Says
Converse has a straightforward policy. Their official product care instructions say “DO NOT MACHINE WASH OR DRY” for both canvas and leather or synthetic materials. It’s printed in all caps for a reason.
The recommended cleaning method for canvas Converse is to use a damp cloth and rub gently with lukewarm water and mild soap. For leather and synthetic versions, the same approach applies.
Machine washing can affect the glue that holds the shoe together, loosen the stitching, and cause the rubber sole to warp. The movement and spin cycle are hard on the structure of a sneaker.
Why People Still Try The Machine Method
The temptation is understandable. Scrubbing a pair of shoes by hand takes more time and effort than tossing them in a load of laundry. Some online guides suggest alternative washing methods.
- Laundry bag trick: Some sources recommend removing the laces, placing the shoes in a laundry bag or pillowcase, and running a gentle cycle. This contradicts the manufacturer’s instructions entirely.
- Insole damage risk: Machine washing can cause insoles to soak up too much water. They become harder to dry completely, and trapped moisture can lead to a bad smell over time.
- Color bleed concerns: If the water is too hot, dyes in the canvas can run, turning white sections pink or light blue sections streaky.
- Shrinkage potential: Canvas is a natural cotton fiber. Hot water and high heat from a dryer can cause it to shrink, making the shoe fit differently.
The primary risk is that machine washing voids any warranty and may ruin the shoes faster than regular wear. Hand cleaning is the safer path.
How To Hand Wash Converse Correctly
Hand washing gives you control over the process. Start by removing the laces and insoles. Brush off any loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth.
Mix a small amount of mild soap with lukewarm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently rub the canvas and rubber areas. For stubborn marks, a soft-bristled toothbrush works well. Converse provides its own official washing instructions that walk through this step by step.
Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe away any soap residue. Blot excess water with a dry towel. Do not soak the shoes or run them under the tap.
| Material Type | Cleaning Method | Key Warning |
|---|---|---|
| Canvas (standard Chuck Taylor) | Damp cloth + mild soap | Avoid hot water to prevent shrinking |
| Leather / Synthetic | Damp cloth + mild soap | Do not machine wash or dry |
| White rubber soles | Damp cloth + hand sanitizer or nail polish remover | Test on a small hidden area first |
| Suede | Soft suede brush + specialized cleaner | Water can cause water stains |
| Knitted or mesh | Damp cloth + mild soap (gentle dabbing) | Avoid scrubbing to prevent fraying |
Each material requires slightly different care. The rubber soles on white Converse respond well to a dab of hand sanitizer on a cloth, which breaks down grime without damaging the rubber.
How To Dry Converse After Cleaning
Drying is just as important as the cleaning step. The wrong drying method can undo all your hard work.
- Air dry at room temperature: Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight. Heat can warp the rubber and shrink the canvas.
- Stuff with paper towels: Crumple clean paper towels or a dry cloth and stuff them inside the shoes. This helps absorb moisture and maintains the shoe’s shape while it dries.
- Change the stuffing regularly: Damp paper towels don’t help. Replace them every few hours until the inside of the shoe feels dry to the touch.
Allow the shoes to dry completely before re-lacing or wearing them. This can take 12 to 24 hours depending on humidity and airflow. Rushing the process with a dryer or heater can cause lasting damage.
What About Machine Washing Anyway
Some online guides do claim you can machine wash Converse if you use a laundry bag, cool water, and a gentle cycle. These alternative methods directly contradict the manufacturer’s recommendation. The risks of hot water include color bleeding and canvas shrinkage, which are permanent.
If you choose to ignore the official guidance and machine wash anyway, use the coolest water setting, skip the spin cycle, and never put them in the dryer. Even then, you’re rolling the dice on the glue and stitching holding up.
| Method | Recommendation Level | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Hand wash (damp cloth + soap) | Recommended by manufacturer | Low — safe for material |
| Machine wash (gentle cycle + bag) | Not recommended | Moderate to high |
| Dryer machine | Explicitly prohibited | High — shrinkage and warping |
The safe approach is to trust the brand’s guidance. A few minutes of gentle hand scrubbing will clean your Converse without putting them at risk.
The Bottom Line
The official answer is no — Converse should not go in the washing machine. Hand cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is the recommended method, followed by air drying at room temperature. Machine washing risks shrinkage, color loss, and damage to the shoe’s structure.
If your Chucks need a deep clean and you’re unsure which method is safest for your specific material and stain type, a local shoe repair shop or a footwear specialist can offer advice tailored to your pair.
References & Sources
- Converse. “Product Care Source” Converse’ official product care instructions state: “DO NOT MACHINE WASH OR DRY” for both canvas and leather/synthetic materials.
- Realsimple. “How to Wash Converse” If water used for cleaning is too hot, the shoe’s color may run and the canvas may shrink.