Reasons why washing Vans in a washing machine may not be advisable:
- Materials and construction: Vans shoes are often made from canvas, suede, or leather materials, which can be sensitive to the agitation and harsh detergents used in machine washing.
These materials may shrink or become damaged when subjected to the rigorous wash cycles of a washing machine.
- Shape and structure: Vans shoes have a specific shape and structure that can be compromised by machine washing.
The tumbling action of the machine may cause the shoes to lose their shape and may also damage the stitching and glued parts of the shoe.
- Color bleeding and dye transfer: Some Vans styles feature contrasting colors or dyed accents.
Machine washing can cause these colors to bleed or transfer onto other parts of the shoe, resulting in an uneven or discolored appearance.
- Detergents and chemicals: Standard laundry detergents may contain harsh chemicals that can be damaging to the materials used in Vans shoes.
These chemicals can cause fading, discoloration, or weakening of the materials.
- Drying process: Vans shoes should be air-dried to prevent damage to their shape and materials.
Machine drying can expose them to excessive heat, which may cause the shoes to shrink or deform.
Recommended cleaning methods for Vans shoes:
- Spot cleaning: For small stains or dirt marks, use a soft cloth or brush with a mild cleaning solution or detergent specifically designed for cleaning shoes.
Blot the affected area gently and avoid scrubbing vigorously to prevent damage to the material.
- Hand washing: If necessary, hand wash Vans shoes in a sink or basin with lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
Use a soft cloth or brush to gently clean the shoes, avoiding direct exposure of leather or suede to water.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let them air-dry completely.
- Professional cleaning: For deep cleaning or to restore the original appearance of Vans shoes, it is recommended to take them to a professional shoe cleaning service.
These services have the expertise and appropriate cleaning products to handle delicate materials and maintain the integrity of the shoes.