Keep Them Classic: Maintaining Your Converse Chuck 70s
In the competitive world of footwear, few sneaker styles hold an iconic status like the renowned Converse Chucks 70s. More than just a fashion statement, these kicks are a cultural symbol, personifying decades of style and attitude. But, as any Converse Chuck 70 fan knows, preserving that classically iconic appeal requires some TLC. Thankfully, fellow Chuck lovers, Side Step, with our essential maintenance tips, ensures your Converse Chuck 70s remains fresh, clean, and ready to make new memories!
Join us as we give you three cleaning tips. While we understand that some dirt adds character to your Chucks, regular cleaning is essential to keep them and you looking your best. But first, here's what to avoid.
What Not To Use When Cleaning Your Converse Chuck 70s
Listen up, Converse lovers, using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners to scrub your Convers Chuck 70s is a no-go! Because these kicks are made with top-quality materials, harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can damage them and scratch up the surface of the sneaker. Stick to gentler cleaning methods to keep them looking and smelling clean and fresh.
Now that you know what to avoid when cleaning your Chucks, here's what your favourite kicks are made of!
Understanding The Construction of Converse Sneakers
To properly clean your Converse Chuck 70s, it is important to know its composition. Converse sneakers are crafted from durable canvas or mixed textile uppers, white rubber-capped toes, lace-up closures and thick, non-slip white rubber soles. Because they are made of canvas, they are more susceptible to water damage, scuffing, and mud spots. The soft white rubber outsoles of the Converse Chuck 70s are attached to the upper and heat-cured at a whopping 300ËšF. The heat that vulcanises the sneaker's rubber soles can melt polyester and nylon.
Right then, Converse-loving sneakerheads, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of cleaning your go-to kicks.
What You Need to Clean Your Converse Sneakers
There are many ways to clean your Converse sneakers. You'll need warm water, a microfiber cloth, and soap to hand wash them. Diluted laundry detergent or dish soap will also do the trick. Alternatively, you can use a toothbrush and baking soda to remove hard-to-clean stains. The Magic Eraser is also a great alternative as a do-it-all cleaning product and works wonders on all sneakers, not just Converse. Toothpaste can also be used, although the gel and charcoal variants are not to be used.
Converse Chuck 70s Cleaning Tricks and Tips
Soap and Water Method
Step 1: Remove the laces from your Converse sneakers to be cleaned separately. Dirt and grime tend to accumulate around eyelets and on the tongue, so removing your laces will give you better access to clean those hard-to-reach areas. Once your laces are removed, you can soak them for 20 minutes in some laundry detergent and baking soda.
Step 2: Gently scrub your sneakers with a damp microfiber cloth or toothbrush in warm water. For your white Converse Chuck 70s, use baking soda as a paste to make your sneakers even whiter.
Step 3: Use a damp cloth to go over the shoe as often as necessary to remove all soap residue.
Step 4: Fill the shoes with paper to keep their shape and leave them out to air dry. Should the paper get wet during the drying process, switch it out for more to avoid any odours.
The Toothpaste Method
Step 1: Use a non-gel variant of white toothpaste.
Step 2: Conduct a test on a no-show spot before cleaning your Converse sneaker. Proceed to start cleaning your kicks on the sides or underside of the tongue by applying a pea-sized amount to the area that needs cleaning. Use a toothbrush to gently clean the canvas of your sneaker in a circular motion. Let the toothpaste sit for a few minutes, then wipe away with a warm, wet towel.
Step 3: Once free of the toothpaste, you can pat dry with a cloth or let it air dry in the sun.
Magic Eraser Method - Leather Converse Sneakers
Step 1: Wet the Magic Eraser and wring out the excess water. Scrub the sneaker's exterior. This method is best used if you want to get out of scuffs.
Step 2: Wipe down or air-dry the sneakers, stuffing them with enough paper to keep their shape.
And now for your bonus sneaker peek! How to properly store your Converse Chuck 70s.
How To Store Your Converse Sneakers
Store your Converse Chuck 70s in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not leave them in cramped spaces or near heat sources, as this can cause the materials to degrade over time.
In addition to regular cleaning and storage, periodic maintenance is vital to preserving the integrity of your Chuck 70s. Check the soles and stitching for any signs of wear and tear or damage and address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Investing in a quality shoe conditioner can also help keep the canvas soft and supple, prolonging the life of your Chucks for years to come. That's where we come in; other than being able to shop the latest Converse Chuck 70s online and in-store, you can also purchase the Forcefield sneaker cleaner to ensure your kicks look as good as you feel!