Quick Guide: How to Get Ink Stains Out of Converse Shoes
Spill some ink on your favorite pair of Converse shoes? Fear not! Here’s a handy guide on how to easily get ink out of canvas shoes—and prevent it from happening again.
Updated 17 Feb 2023
By Peter Blackwood
Taking care of your white Converse shoes is a full-time job. It seems like the second you put them on, they get dirtier and dirtier. And if you’re unlucky enough to spill ink on them, that can be especially challenging. It's important to act fast when ink stains hit your shoes to minimize the damage.
Removing Fresh Ink Stains From Converse Shoes
Time is of essence when it comes to removing fresh ink stains from Converse shoes. You'll have the best chance of success if you act quickly. Here's how:
- If the ink is still wet, use a damp cloth to gently blot it until most of the stain is removed. Don't rub too hard as you could damage the fabric.
- Mix one part dish soap and one part hydrogen peroxide into a bowl of warm water to create a cleaning solution.
- Dip a clean cloth in the solution and then wring it out so it’s just damp.
- Gently blot the ink stain with the damp cloth and repeat until the stain has been removed.
- Let your shoes air dry.
Removing Dried Ink Stains from Converse Shoes
When ink has had time to set into canvas shoes, removing it can be more of a challenge. You'll need to be patient and persistent, but it is possible to get rid of dried ink stains with a few household staples. Here's what to do:
- Before attempting to remove the ink, brush off any loose particles with a soft brush.
- Mix one tablespoon of dish soap with two cups of warm water to create a cleaning solution.
- Dip a clean cloth in the solution and then wring it out so it’s just damp.
- Gently blot the stain with the cloth until stain is gone.
- Let your shoes air dry.
Preventing Ink Stains on Converse Shoes
The best way to keep your Converse shoes looking brand new is to prevent ink stains in the first place. Here are a few tips:
- Don't wear your shoes while working with ink or painting.
- Don't wear them while handling markers, felt-tip pens, or other materials containing ink.
- If you do come into contact with ink, take your shoes off immediately and start the cleaning process.
- Regularly clean and waterproof your shoes with products designed for canvas shoes.