How to Clean Corduroy Shoes and Keep Them in Tip-Top Shape

Ah, corduroy shoes. The quintessential footwear of intellectuals and philosophers. Corduroy shoes may be stylish, but they sure do know how to collect dirt like no other. Seriously, how do they manage to get so grungy in just one day?

Let's be honest. Even the most studious among us can't escape the occasional spill or scuff on our trusty corduroys. But you don't have to let stained, dirty shoes bring down your style game.

Imagine spending all your days philosophizing in comfort and style. Looking smart in your perfectly maintained corduroys. Ready to tackle any intellectual challenge that comes your way?

If you're looking for a way to make your corduroy shoes look brand new again without breaking the bank, you're in the right place. Keep reading! (We know you can't resist.)

What’s the Solution?

The problem with dirty corduroy shoes is that they're like magnets for dirt and grime. It's like they have a secret desire to be as filthy as possible, no matter how hard we try to clean them.

It’s frustrating, to say the least. Maybe we should just give in and embrace the grunge look.

Nah. That’s not the studious look we’re going for. You can quickly restore your corduroy shoes to their former glory with just a few simple steps and the right tools. Break out your cleaning supplies, and let’s do a little scrub-a-dub-dub.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

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Before you start cleaning your corduroy shoes, make sure you have the following supplies ready:

Dry Brush: This will be used to brush away the first layer of dirt and debris from the outside of the shoes.
Mild Detergent (like Dish Soap): Choose a mild detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the corduroy material.
Warm Water: You'll need warm water to mix with mild detergent for cleaning the shoes.
Small Bucket or Container: This will be used to mix the cleaning solution and hold the warm water for rinsing.
Clean Cloth: Prepare a clean cloth that you'll use for various steps, such as blotting and scrubbing. Make sure it's free from any stains or residues.
Specialized Stain Remover (Optional): In case you encounter set-in stains that cannot be removed with the detergent solution, have a specialized stain remover handy. Make sure it's designed for corduroy fabric, and follow the instructions provided.
Newspaper or Similar Material: To aid in the drying process, have a clean cloth or newspaper available for stuffing the shoes. These materials will help absorb moisture and speed up the drying time.
Non-Porous Sheet: It's a good idea to protect the surface you're working on with a non-porous sheet to prevent any mess.
Fabric Protector Spray (Optional): If you want to protect your corduroy shoes and extend the time between cleanings, consider using a fabric protector spray. Choose one that is suitable for corduroy fabric and follow the instructions on the bottle. It's recommended to spot-test and perform this step outside.

By gathering these supplies beforehand, you'll be well-prepared to clean and maintain your corduroy shoes effectively.

Step 2: Get Dry Brushing

First things first, give those shoes a good brush down. Use the soft bristle brush to gently scrub away any dirt or debris stuck in the corduroy fabric. This will help loosen any tough stains and make the rest of the cleaning process much more manageable.

Pro Tip: It's a good idea to protect the surface you're working on with a non-porous sheet to prevent any mess.

Step 3: Focus on The Stains

Next, mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water. Dip the clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the soiled areas of the shoes. Be sure to focus on any particularly tough stains or scuff marks.

Step 4: Scrub-A-Dub-Dub

Once you've given the shoes a good blotting, use the cloth to gently scrub the corduroy in a circular motion. This will help work the detergent into the fabric and lift away any remaining dirt or grime.

For set-in stains, you may need a specialized stain remover. Make sure yours is specifically designed for your type of corduroy (check with the manufacturer to see what blend they used), and follow the instructions on the bottle. You may want to spot-test on a small area first.

Step 5: Time to Rinse

Use a separate cloth and some cool water to remove excess detergent from the shoes. Be sure to blot the shoes dry to remove as much moisture as possible.

Step 6: Let Them Dry

Allow your shoes to air dry completely. You can speed up the process by stuffing your shoes with a clean cloth or newspaper, both act as moisture absorbers. Don’t use heat sources like a hairdryer, clothing dryer, direct sunlight, or radiator. Corduroy can be made up of different materials that may shrink or become brittle under heat.

Step 7: Protect

If you want to extend the time between cleanings, you may opt to protect it with a fabric protector spray. As mentioned in step 4, you’ll first want to determine the make-up of your corduroy. And it’s worth mentioning again to follow the instructions on the bottle, spot test first, and do this step outside.

Tips from Our Editors

Upgrade your shoe-cleaning game by taking an extra step before you begin. Removing the laces gives you better access to all the nooks and crannies of your shoes, ensuring a thorough clean. And don't forget to give those laces a good scrub too! With some elbow grease and some TLC, your corduroy shoes will look brand-spanking new.

On a Final Note

Time to sit back, relax, and ponder the mysteries of the universe in style. With your freshly scrubbed corduroys, you'll be the epitome of a modern-day philosopher. Just try not to get too lost in your own thoughts and forget to feed the dog. Happy cleaning (and philosophizing)!