How do I clean them?
White canvas and mesh runners are very on trend. Unfortunately they tend to look dirty quickly. That’s because these materials absorb stains easily. Whether you’re dealing with pollen, mustard, dirt or mud, here’s a few tips to get your runners looking brand new.
For everyday general stains: Gentle cleaning methods and soft bristles are required to avoid damaging canvas or mesh fabric. Rather than using a harsh bleach, which can yellow canvas, use the M&B Boot & Shoe Cleaner. Just shake the can, spray the cleaner onto the shoe surface, and scrub with the brush cap provided. Wipe clean and air dry only.
Pollen on canvas: This might seem counterintuitive, but let the stain dry. Use a M&B Suede Block to dry clean the canvas. Then use a cleaner like the M&B Boot & Shoe Cleaner. Clean quickly to prevent permanent staining.
For mustard and other food stains: Blot immediately. Avoid aggressive scrubbing. Use a recommended cleaner, like the M&B Boot & Shoe Cleaner.
Dirt and mud: Let the mud dry first before cleaning. Then remove dried mud with a brush. Use the M&B Boot & Shoe Cleaner or the M&B Gel Cleaner. Be sure to rinse brushes mid cleaning so the dirt doesn’t spread to other areas. Clean soles separately.
Grass stains: It’s important to treat grass stains quickly before they set into the fabric. Rather than soaking the whole shoe or using bleach, which can damage canvas and cause yellowing, let shoes air dry first, then brush off loose dirt gently. Apply the Foam Cleaner, found in the M&B Boot + Shoe Cleaning Kit, using the brush provided. Scrub gently, work in small circular motions. Wipe clean with a damp cloth (provided in the kit). Repeat if needed for stubborn green staining. Air dry completely.
Pen or marker: Act quickly before the ink sets. Permanent markers may not remove fully if left too long. First, dab the stain gently with a clean cloth—do not rub. Rubbing aggressively can spread the ink deeper into the fabric. Apply a small amount of a gentle cleaner to the stain, like M&B’s Boot and Shoe Cleaner. Use the brush cap to work the cleaner in lightly. Blot away loosened ink with a clean damp cloth. Repeat as needed using light applications. Be sure to air dry only. Cover stubborn stains with the M&B Super White Sneaker Pen or the M&B Shoe Whitener.
A few things to avoid:
- Bleach, which can cause yellowing and weaken fabric fibres.
- Harsh solvents or strong chemicals, which can discolour canvas.Excessive water soaking—this can wan warp the shoe shape.
- Stiff or wire brushes. These can fray or rough up the canvas material.
- Drying using high or direct heat. Heat can shrink canvas and damage glue.
- Aggressive scrubbing. This can spread stains deeper into fabric.
- Machine washing, which can deform shoes, damage soles and shortens the lifespan over time.
Regular maintenance is a great way to keep shoes clean and white.