The Right Way To Clean Your Hand Painted Shoes
When it comes to cleaning your custom shoes, gentle is the way to go. Here’s my tried-and-true cleaning method that preserves both the artwork and the shoe material:
For Light Cleaning
1. Start with a dry microfiber cloth to remove surface dust
2. Slightly dampen the cloth with plain water
3. Gently wipe the shoe, avoiding direct pressure on the painted areas 4. Allow to air dry completely
For Deeper Cleaning
When your shoes need a more thorough cleaning, follow these steps:
1. Mix a small amount of gentle dish soap with warm water
2. Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth for cleaning, being extra gentle around the artwork
3. Spot clean only—never submerge the shoes or scrub aggressively 4. For canvas shoes, OxiClean can be effective for tough stains in unpainted areas 5. Keep a Tide pen handy for emergency spot cleaning when you’re out and about
What to Avoid
To protect your investment:
● Never machine-wash your painted shoes
● Never use harsh chemicals or scrub brushes
● Never apply direct heat
● Never scrub the painted design
● Never soak or submerge the shoes