No, you should not put Comme des Garçons Converse shoes in the washing machine. Machine washing can cause irreparable damage to the materials, structure, and iconic design of your sneakers.
Why Machine Washing Is Not Recommended
Putting your Comme des Garçons PLAY Converse, or indeed most sneakers, through a washing machine cycle can lead to several undesirable outcomes. The harsh agitation, high temperatures, and strong detergents found in washing machines are detrimental to various shoe components.
- Material Damage: The canvas can shrink, fade, or become stiff, while the rubber soles and toe caps can crack or yellow. Leather or synthetic elements may warp, crack, or lose their finish.
- Adhesive Breakdown: The glues holding the shoe together (especially between the upper and the sole) can weaken and dissolve, leading to sole separation.
- Structural Integrity: The internal structure, including padding and support, can be compromised, altering the fit and comfort of the shoe.
- Color Fading/Bleeding: Colors may fade unevenly, and dyes from different parts of the shoe could bleed into each other, staining the white rubber or canvas.
Proper Cleaning Methods for CDG Converse
Instead of machine washing, a gentle, manual cleaning approach is highly recommended to preserve the quality and longevity of your Comme des Garçons Converse sneakers. This method ensures the materials are treated carefully and effectively removes dirt without causing damage.
Step-by-Step Manual Cleaning Guide
Regardless of whether your CDG Converse feature a canvas, leather, or synthetic upper, the cleaning process is quite similar and focused on gentle care.
- Preparation:
- Remove the shoelaces and insoles. These can be hand-washed separately in a bowl of lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap.
- Use a dry, soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) to gently brush off any loose dirt, mud, or debris from the entire shoe, especially around the soles and eyelets.
- Cleaning the Uppers:
- For the canvas upper, gently rub with a damp cloth using lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap. Work in circular motions, focusing on soiled areas.
- For leather or synthetic components, use the same method: a damp cloth, lukewarm water, and mild soap. Be extra gentle on any printed designs, like the iconic heart logo.
- Important: Avoid saturating the shoes with water. Damp is key, not dripping wet.
- Cleaning the Midsoles and Outsoles:
- Use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush with a solution of mild soap and water to clean the rubber midsoles and outsoles. Baking soda mixed with a little water to form a paste can also be effective for stubborn scuffs on the white rubber.
- Wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth.
- Rinsing and Drying:
- Wipe down the entire shoe with a clean cloth dampened with plain water to remove any soap residue.
- Stuff the shoes with paper towels or old newspapers to absorb moisture and help maintain their shape as they dry. Change the paper periodically if it becomes saturated.
- Allow the shoes to air dry completely at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources (like radiators or hair dryers), which can cause materials to crack or warp. DO NOT MACHINE DRY.
Essential Cleaning Tools
Having the right tools can make the cleaning process more efficient and effective:
- Soft-bristled brush (e.g., old toothbrush)
- Clean, damp cloths
- Mild soap (dish soap or laundry detergent without harsh chemicals)
- Small bowl for water and soap solution
- Paper towels or newspaper for drying
- Optional: specialized sneaker cleaning kit
Maintaining Your CDG Converse
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan and appearance of your Comme des Garçons Converse, minimizing the need for deep cleaning.
- Spot Clean Immediately: Address small stains as soon as they occur with a damp cloth to prevent them from setting in.
- Protect Your Shoes: Consider applying a water and stain repellent spray suitable for canvas and rubber. Always test it on an inconspicuous area first.
- Proper Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Using shoe trees can help maintain their shape.
- Rotate Your Footwear: Giving your shoes a break allows them to air out and recover, preventing excessive wear and tear.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| ✅ Hand wash laces and insoles | ❌ Machine wash or dry |
| ✅ Use mild soap and lukewarm water | ❌ Use harsh chemicals or bleach |
| ✅ Gently scrub with a soft brush | ❌ Submerge shoes in water for long periods |
| ✅ Air dry at room temperature | ❌ Dry in direct sunlight or with heat |
| ✅ Stuff with paper to maintain shape | ❌ Scrub too vigorously, especially on logos |
By following these gentle cleaning and maintenance practices, your Comme des Garçons Converse will remain a stylish and durable part of your wardrobe for years to come. For more general sneaker care tips, you might consult resources like Converse's official care guides or other reputable shoe care blogs.
