Quick answer
Start by brushing off loose debris, then spot-clean with mild soap and water. For deeper cleaning, follow the specific material care for your clogs, Spacecloud 2.0, or Vans High Tops.
Why regular cleaning matters for kitchen shoes
Kitchen floors are tough on shoes—grease, food spills, and constant moisture can break down materials and harbor bacteria. A quick daily wipe and a weekly deep clean extend the life of your footwear and keep your feet comfortable.
Different materials need different care. Leather clogs require conditioning, while canvas Vans can handle a gentle machine wash. Knowing the difference prevents damage and keeps your shoes looking fresh.
What you'll need
Gather a soft brush or cloth, mild dish soap, warm water, a small bowl, and a towel. For stubborn stains, a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to 1 part water) works well. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can discolor or weaken materials.
Step-by-step cleaning routine
- 1. Remove laces and insoles: Take out the laces and any removable insoles. This lets you clean every part of the shoe and allows them to dry separately. Common mistake: Leaving laces in traps dirt and moisture, leading to faster wear.
- 2. Brush off loose debris: Use a soft brush or dry cloth to remove crumbs, flour, or dried food bits from the surface and crevices. Pay attention to the sole and the area around the heel.
- 3. Spot-clean with mild soap: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the solution, then gently scrub stained areas. For canvas Vans, you can use a soft toothbrush on stubborn marks. Checkpoint: Avoid soaking the shoe—especially the Spacecloud 2.0's cushioned insole—to prevent water damage and mold.
- 4. Rinse and remove soap: Wipe away soap residue with a clean, damp cloth. For clogs, rinse quickly under running water; for canvas shoes, use a damp cloth to avoid saturating the fabric. Common mistake: Leaving soap residue attracts dirt and can cause skin irritation.
- 5. Air dry completely: Stuff shoes with paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb moisture and help them hold their shape. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Drying typically takes 12–24 hours. Never use a dryer or radiator—heat can warp soles and shrink materials.
- 6. Deodorize (optional): Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes, let it sit overnight, then shake it out. This neutralizes odors without harsh chemicals.
- 7. Reassemble and condition (for leather clogs): Once fully dry, reinsert insoles and relace. For leather clogs, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent cracking. Checkpoint: Conditioning is not needed for canvas or synthetic materials like the Spacecloud 2.0.
Products mentioned in this guide
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Spacecloud 2.0 - Eclipse Black: The Spacecloud 2.0 in Eclipse Black is part of a series known for lightweight comfort and has a standard fit option. Its lightweight construction means you can clean it more frequently without worrying about heavy materials retaining moisture, but avoid soaking the insoles to preserve cushioning.
Spacecloud 2.0 - Eclipse Black
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Black Vans High Tops: The Black Vans High Tops have a durable construction suitable for demanding kitchen environments and are easy to clean and maintain. You can spot-clean these quickly between shifts, and the classic canvas upper handles a gentle machine wash when needed, making them low-maintenance for busy cooks.
Black Vans High Tops
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Charcoal Vans High Tops: The Charcoal Vans High Tops offer a classic high-top silhouette in a rich charcoal colorway and durable construction for everyday wear. The darker color hides stains better than lighter shoes, but you still need to clean them regularly to prevent odors and material breakdown from kitchen grease.
