Be forewarned....washing canvas shoes will not prolong their life-time. Washing often exposes the slipper to hot water and detergents that can dissolve the glues that are used between the lining and soles, etc.
But why wash? If you're in daily classes, why worry about clean slippers? The dirtier the more you are working. And why worry if they "smell?" After the first 15 minutes of class everybody has developed a "working odor" much like that of your local gym; it's part of the reality of dance.
If you need a clean pair for a performance, you need to buy a new pair anyways.
So in my humble opinion, I personally do not worry about the appearance of my slippers, and don't subject them to harsh detergents and hot water. And they last long enough for my preference (until the materials wear through to expos my toes!).
balletboy
>I have a really daft question, but is it possible to wash ballet shoes? I've been dancing a year and my feet sweat a lot. I wear canvas shoes and find I have to throw them away before there really ready to be thrown out. It gets too embarassing. Can I prolong their life by washing them? If so, what's the best way to do it. Should they be machine or hand washed?[/i]