Can You Put Tennis Shoes In The Washer? The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can put tennis shoes in the washer. However, there are important steps to follow to ensure your shoes are properly cleaned and not damaged. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about washing tennis shoes, including cleaning sneakers in washer, machine washing athletic shoes, and more. Let’s dive in and learn the best way to wash tennis shoes.

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Preparing Your Tennis Shoes for the Washer

Before you even think about tossing your shoes into the washing machine, some crucial preparatory steps are needed. Doing these things first protects your shoes and the machine.

Removing Loose Dirt and Debris

The first step is to manually remove as much loose dirt and debris as possible. This will prevent your washing machine from becoming clogged and ensures a more effective clean.

• Use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great) to scrub off any dried mud or dirt.
• Remove any large stones or debris stuck in the soles.
• Wipe down the shoes with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt.

Detaching Laces and Insoles

Laces and insoles should always be removed before laundry tennis shoes. They can become tangled in the washing machine, and insoles can trap moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth.

• Untie and remove the laces. These can be washed separately in a laundry bag or by hand.
• Take out the insoles. If they are particularly dirty or smelly, consider replacing them.

Protecting Your Shoes with a Laundry Bag

Using a mesh laundry bag is essential to protect your shoes from damage during the wash cycle. It also helps to prevent them from banging around inside the machine, which can be noisy and potentially damaging to both the shoes and the washer.

• Place each shoe in a separate laundry bag.
• If you don’t have laundry bags, you can use pillowcases secured with rubber bands or zip ties.

Choosing the Right Washing Machine Settings

Selecting the correct settings on your washing machine is paramount to machine washing athletic shoes successfully. Incorrect settings can lead to damage, shrinkage, or discoloration.

Water Temperature

Always use cold water when washing sneakers machine. Hot water can damage the glue and materials used in the shoes’ construction, causing them to fall apart or lose their shape.

Cycle Selection

Choose a gentle or delicate cycle. This will minimize the agitation and spinning, reducing the risk of damage. A normal cycle can be too harsh for shoes.

Spin Speed

Opt for a low spin speed or no spin at all. High spin speeds can cause the shoes to become misshapen or damaged. If your washing machine doesn’t allow you to adjust the spin speed, consider removing the shoes before the spin cycle begins.

Detergent Selection

Use a mild detergent. Harsh chemicals can damage the materials of your shoes. Avoid using bleach, as it can discolor or weaken the fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Tennis Shoes in the Washing Machine

Now that you’ve prepared your shoes and chosen the right settings, here’s a detailed guide on how to wash tennis shoes in the washing machine:

1. Prepare the Shoes: Follow the steps outlined above for removing dirt, detaching laces and insoles, and placing the shoes in laundry bags.
2. Load the Washing Machine: Place the laundry bags containing the shoes into the washing machine.
3. Add Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent to the dispenser.
4. Set the Washing Machine: Choose the cold water, gentle cycle, and low spin speed settings.
5. Start the Washing Machine: Begin the wash cycle.
6. Rinse Thoroughly: If your washing machine doesn’t have an extra rinse cycle, consider running the shoes through a second rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.
7. Remove the Shoes: Carefully remove the shoes from the laundry bags.

Drying Your Tennis Shoes Properly

Proper drying is just as important as washing when it comes to maintaining the shape and integrity of your tennis shoes. Avoid using a dryer, as the high heat can cause significant damage.

Air Drying is Key

Air drying is the best way to wash tennis shoes and maintain their quality.

• Stuff the Shoes: Stuff the shoes with paper towels or newspaper to help them retain their shape and absorb moisture.
• Placement: Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Sunlight can cause discoloration, and heat can damage the materials.
• Drying Time: Allow the shoes to dry completely, which may take 24-48 hours. Replace the paper towels or newspaper as needed to speed up the drying process.

Alternatives to Machine Drying

• Shoe Dryer: If you have a shoe dryer, use it on a low heat setting.
• Fan: Place the shoes in front of a fan to circulate air and speed up the drying process.

Materials That Are Safe (And Not Safe) to Wash

Not all tennis shoes are created equal, and some materials are more suitable for machine washing than others. Here’s a breakdown:

Material	Washing Machine Safe?	Notes
Canvas	Yes	Generally safe, but avoid harsh detergents.
Nylon	Yes	Durable and easy to clean in the washing machine.
Polyester	Yes	Similar to nylon, polyester is a good material for machine washing.
Cotton Blends	Yes	Usually safe, but be cautious of shrinkage.
Leather	No	Leather can be damaged by water and should be cleaned with specialized leather cleaners.
Suede	No	Suede is extremely sensitive to water and should be cleaned professionally.
Mesh	Yes	Mesh is generally safe, but be sure to use a gentle cycle and avoid harsh detergents.
Rubber	Yes	Rubber soles are typically fine to wash, but avoid high heat.
Shoes with lights	No	The electronic components can be damaged by water. Spot clean only.

Handling Stubborn Stains and Odors

Sometimes, a regular wash cycle isn’t enough to remove stubborn stains or odors. Here are some effective techniques:

Stain Removal Tips

• Pre-Treat Stains: Before washing, pre-treat stains with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water.
• Magic Eraser: A magic eraser can be effective for removing scuff marks and dirt from the soles of your shoes.
• Lemon Juice: For light-colored shoes, lemon juice can help to brighten and remove stains. Apply lemon juice to the stain, let it sit for a few hours, and then wash as usual.

Odor Elimination Strategies

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb odors. Vacuum out the baking soda before washing.
• Vinegar: Soak the insoles in a solution of vinegar and water to eliminate odors.
• Tea Bags: Place dry tea bags inside the shoes to absorb odors.
• Freezing: Placing the shoes in a freezer bag and freezing them for a few hours can kill odor-causing bacteria.

When to Avoid Machine Washing

While laundry tennis shoes in the washing machine can be convenient, there are certain situations when it’s best to avoid it:

• Leather or Suede Shoes: As mentioned earlier, these materials are not suitable for machine washing.
• Shoes with Delicate Embellishments: Shoes with beads, sequins, or other delicate embellishments should be hand-washed to prevent damage.
• Shoes with Visible Damage: If your shoes have any tears or loose parts, machine washing can worsen the damage.
• Expensive or Sentimental Shoes: If you’re unsure about the is it safe to wash tennis shoes, err on the side of caution and hand-wash them or take them to a professional cleaner.

Hand Washing as an Alternative

Hand washing is a gentler alternative to machine washing and is suitable for delicate materials or shoes with embellishments.

1. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix mild detergent with warm water in a basin or sink.
2. Clean the Shoes: Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to scrub the shoes, paying attention to areas with dirt or stains.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the shoes under running water until all the detergent is removed.
4. Dry the Shoes: Follow the same air-drying steps as outlined above.

Maintaining Your Clean Tennis Shoes

Once your tennis shoes are clean, here are some tips to keep them looking their best:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your shoes regularly to prevent dirt and stains from building up.
• Protective Sprays: Use a fabric protector spray to repel water and stains.
• Shoe Trees: Use shoe trees to help maintain the shape of your shoes when they’re not being worn.
• Proper Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Is It Safe to Wash Tennis Shoes – What to Consider Beforehand

Is it safe to wash tennis shoes? Generally, yes, it’s safe to wash tennis shoes in a washing machine if you follow the guidelines outlined above. However, before proceeding, consider the material of your shoes, the condition of your shoes, and the potential for damage. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and hand-wash them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I wash my tennis shoes with clothes?

  • It’s not recommended. Washing shoes with clothes can damage both the shoes and the clothes. The shoes can also transfer dirt and debris onto the clothing.

  • How often should I wash my tennis shoes?

  • It depends on how often you wear them and how dirty they get. Generally, washing them every few months is sufficient for regularly worn shoes. If you wear them for sports or outdoor activities, you may need to wash them more frequently.

  • Can I use bleach to wash my tennis shoes?

  • No, bleach can damage the materials and discolor the shoes. Stick to mild detergents.

  • My shoes still smell after washing. What should I do?

  • Try soaking them in a solution of vinegar and water, or sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. Make sure they are completely dry after washing.

  • Can I put my insoles in the washing machine?

  • Yes, you can wash insoles in the washing machine, but remove them first and place them in a laundry bag. You can also hand wash them for a gentler clean.

  • My tennis shoes have lights, can I wash them?

  • No, you should never wash shoes with lights in a washing machine. The water can damage the electronic components. Instead, spot clean them with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

  • What type of detergent should I use?

  • Use a mild, liquid detergent. Avoid using detergents with harsh chemicals or bleach.

  • Can I wash multiple pairs of shoes at once?

  • It’s best to wash one pair of shoes at a time to prevent damage to the shoes and the washing machine.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can safely and effectively wash your tennis shoes in the washing machine, keeping them clean, fresh, and looking their best for longer. Remember, proper preparation, the right settings, and careful drying are key to successful washing sneakers machine.