I've got a pair of canvas sanshas that while still good structurally, are in need of a cleaning. I am concerned that if I wash them, the pads under the heel and ball will disintigrate.

Thoughts?

Are they pointe shoes? Just wondering because you posted this in Pointe-General. If they are plain canvas slippers you can wash them in the washing machine in cold water and then let them air dry afterwards. You might want to walk around in them a bit while they are wet to stretch them to your feet in they shrink a tad when they dry.

I've never had the lining of my shoes be ruined by the washer but I haven't ever washed Sansha's either.

My Sanshas (flats) were totally ruined in the wash- I've never understood how folks can wash them and have them danceable!

Whoops! Positing in pointe was a mistake; I understand that it's fashionable now for men to dance pointe, but...it's not me.

Anyway, that's two differeing opinions. I might just deal with the $25 and get new ones...

Thank you for your responses

I also ruined a pair by putting them in the machine, but try Cochinella's tip of a cold wash and let us know how you get on! I think I put them in at some stupidly hot wash, thinking it would be lovely and hygienic...

I haven't washed my shoes in the washing machine, but I wash them by hand in the sink. I have canvas and leather sole flats (Bloch, I think?). I use cold water and a little laundry detergent, making sure to rinse them well. It surprisingly hasn't changed the quality at all once they're dried out again!

I've washed my canvas Sansha's several times and never had a problem. ALWAYS wash in cold water and air dry. That being said, washing them never really does much for me. They still look fairly dirty. So if you need them looking nice, you may need to buy a new pair anyway.

I have canvas split sole blochs, I hand wash them in cold water with mild soap, and gently scrub with a nail brush if they need it. They take a while to dry but come out good as new. I wouldn't spend money on a new pair just because the ones you have are dirty!

I washed mine a few times in a commercial washer (laundromat) on the cold temperature setting and they are fine.

I haven't ever dried them in a dryer however.

When I washed mine in the washing machine they were fine at first but after dancing in them a few times holes started to appear. I am now going to have to buy a new pair,so I definately don't recommend washing them in the washing machine!!