Can I Put Shoes In The Washer? The Ultimate Cleaning Guide

Yes, you can put many types of shoes in the washing machine. But it’s not always the best idea, and it’s crucial to do it right to avoid damage. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about washing machine shoe cleaning, including which shoes are machine washable, the best way to wash shoes, and shoe cleaning tips to use with your washer. We’ll also explore when it’s safe to wash shoes and what to do if your shoe laundry goes wrong.

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Which Shoes Can Handle a Washing Machine Cycle?

Not all shoes are created equal. Some materials and construction methods can easily fall apart in the washing machine. Before tossing your favorite pair in, let’s figure out if they are machine washable shoes.

Shoes That Are Generally Safe for the Washing Machine

• Canvas Shoes: Sneakers made of canvas, like Converse or Vans, are usually very durable and can stand up to a wash.
• Nylon and Polyester Shoes: Many athletic shoes use these materials, which are designed to be strong and water-resistant.
• Synthetic Material Shoes: If your shoes are made of materials like nylon, microfiber, or other man-made materials, they’re usually fine in the washing machine.

Shoes That Should NEVER Go in the Washing Machine

• Leather Shoes: The washing machine can ruin the leather’s texture and shape. Leather shoes will become brittle, cracked, and likely shrink.
• Suede Shoes: Suede is even more sensitive than leather. Water can stain suede permanently.
• Shoes with Embellishments: Shoes with delicate beads, sequins, or glued-on decorations are likely to have these detach in the washing machine.
• Dress Shoes: Any formal shoe is best cleaned by hand because of the delicate materials and construction.
• Shoes with Memory Foam: The washing machine and the heat from the dryer can break down memory foam.

How to Tell if Your Shoes Are Washing Machine Safe

1. Check the Label: Look for care instructions on the shoe label. If it says “machine washable,” you’re good to go.
2. Consider the Materials: If the shoe is made of the materials listed as safe, it’s probably fine. If it’s made of materials listed as not safe, avoid machine washing.
3. Use Your Best Judgment: If you’re unsure, it’s always better to hand-wash or spot-clean the shoes.

Preparing Your Shoes for the Washing Machine

Before you start, there are a few steps to follow to protect both your shoes and your washing machine.

Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris

• Brush Off Dirt: Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works great) to remove as much dry dirt as possible.
• Remove Insoles and Laces: Take out the insoles and laces. These can be washed separately in a mesh bag. Removing the laces and insoles helps the water and detergent get to all parts of the shoe.
  • Tip: If the insoles are heavily soiled, you might want to replace them instead of washing them.

Step 2: Protect Your Shoes

• Place Shoes in a Mesh Laundry Bag: This keeps the shoes from banging around inside the washing machine. A pillowcase tied closed also works.
• Add Towels: Throw in a few old towels to cushion the shoes and prevent them from damaging the washing machine drum.

Step 3: Protect Your Washing Machine

• Clean the Dispenser: Make sure the washing machine detergent dispenser is free of any buildup.
• Consider a Front-Loading Machine: Front-loading machines are generally gentler on shoes than top-loading machines with a center agitator. If you use a top-loading machine, put the shoes around the edges of the drum to avoid the agitator.

The Best Way to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine

Now that your shoes are prepped, here’s how to wash them in your washing machine for the best cleaning and the least damage.

Step 1: Choose the Right Settings

• Use Cold Water: Hot water can damage some shoe materials.
• Select a Gentle Cycle: This will minimize wear and tear on the shoes.
• Low Spin Speed: A high spin speed can be hard on shoes and may cause them to lose their shape. If possible, select no spin.

Step 2: Add Detergent

• Use a Mild Detergent: Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. A small amount of liquid detergent is best.
• Don’t Overdo It: Too much detergent can leave residue on the shoes, which can be difficult to rinse out.

Step 3: Run the Washing Machine

• Start the Cycle: Let the washing machine do its job.
• Check During the Rinse Cycle: If you see a lot of soap bubbles, you might want to run an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the detergent is gone.

Step 4: Inspect the Shoes

• Check for Damage: After the cycle, check the shoes for any signs of damage.
• Remove Excess Water: Gently squeeze out any excess water from the shoes before drying them.

Drying Your Shoes: What to Do (and What NOT to Do)

Drying your shoes the right way is just as important as washing them correctly. Here’s how to do it.

Things to Avoid

• Never Put Shoes in the Dryer: The high heat can warp the shoe’s shape, melt glue, and damage the materials.
• Don’t Place Them in Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the colors and damage the fabric.

The Best Drying Methods

1. Air Dry:
   • Stuff with Paper Towels or Newspaper: This helps the shoes keep their shape and absorbs moisture. Change the paper every few hours.
   • Place in a Well-Ventilated Area: A room with good airflow is ideal. You can also use a fan to speed up the drying process.
2. Use a Shoe Dryer:
   • Shoe dryers use warm air to dry shoes gently and evenly. These are great if you wash your shoes often.
3. Hang them
   • Use shoe hangers, or thread the laces through an S hook. Hang them on a clothesline or drying rack in a well-ventilated space.

How Long Does It Take to Dry?

• Air drying can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the material and the humidity.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Shoes

Some shoes need a little extra care, even if they are generally machine washable.

White Canvas Shoes

• Pre-Treat Stains: Use a stain remover on any stubborn stains before washing.
• Use a Whitening Detergent: This can help keep white shoes looking bright.
• Consider Baking Soda: Add a tablespoon of baking soda to the wash to help brighten white fabrics.

Athletic Shoes (Trainers)

• Pay Attention to Odor: If your athletic shoes are smelly, use a detergent designed to remove odors.
• Disinfect if Necessary: If the shoes are used for sports or exercise, consider using a disinfectant laundry additive.

Delicate Fabrics

• Use a Lingerie Bag: For very delicate shoes, use a smaller lingerie bag for extra protection.
• Hand Wash Option: If you’re worried about damage, hand-washing is always a safer option.

Hand Washing Shoes: A Gentle Alternative

Sometimes, hand washing is the best way to clean shoes, especially for delicate materials.

What You’ll Need

• Mild Detergent
• Soft Brush or Cloth
• Warm Water
• Basin or Sink

The Hand Washing Process

1. Prepare the Shoes: Remove laces and insoles.
2. Mix Soap and Water: Add a small amount of mild detergent to warm water.
3. Clean the Shoes: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the shoes. Pay attention to areas with dirt or stains.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the shoes with clean water until all the soap is gone.
5. Dry the Shoes: Follow the drying methods mentioned earlier (air dry, stuff with paper towels, avoid direct sunlight).

Dealing with Common Shoe Washing Issues

Even with the best care, things can sometimes go wrong. Here’s how to handle some common shoe washing problems.

Shoes Shrinking

• Why It Happens: Heat is the main culprit.
• What to Do: Try to gently stretch the shoes while they are still damp. Stuffing them with paper towels can also help them keep their shape. A shoe stretcher may also help.

Color Fading

• Why It Happens: Harsh detergents or direct sunlight can cause colors to fade.
• What to Do: Use a color-safe detergent and avoid drying the shoes in direct sunlight.

Glue Coming Undone

• Why It Happens: The washing machine can weaken the glue that holds the shoe together.
• What to Do: Use a strong adhesive to re-glue any loose parts.

Lingering Odor

• Why It Happens: Bacteria can cause odors, especially in athletic shoes.
• What to Do: Use a disinfectant laundry additive or try soaking the shoes in a solution of water and vinegar before washing.

Shoe Cleaning Tips: Washer Specific

For the best outcomes when cleaning shoes in washer, consider these tips:

• Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning prevents dirt buildup, making each wash more effective.
• Spot Clean When Possible: For minor dirt, spot clean with a damp cloth instead of washing the entire shoe.
• Use Shoe Trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your shoes when they are not being worn.

Alternatives to Washing Machine Shoe Cleaning

If you’re concerned about damaging your shoes, here are some alternative cleaning methods:

• Professional Shoe Cleaning: A professional shoe cleaner has the experience and equipment to clean shoes safely and effectively.
• DIY Cleaning Solutions: There are many DIY cleaning solutions you can make at home using ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice.
• Specialized Shoe Cleaning Products: Several products are designed specifically for cleaning shoes, such as shoe cleaners, stain removers, and deodorizers.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Feature	Benefit	Drawback
Machine Washing	Convenient, Thorough	Can damage some shoes, Not suitable for all materials
Hand Washing	Gentle, Good for delicate shoes	More time-consuming, May not be as effective for heavy soiling
Professional Cleaning	Safe, Effective for all types of shoes	More expensive
DIY Solutions	Cost-effective, Uses common household items	May not be as effective for tough stains, Requires testing beforehand

FAQ: Washing Shoes in the Washing Machine

Can washing shoes damage my washing machine?

Yes, it’s possible. Shoes can bang around and damage the drum. Using a mesh laundry bag and adding towels can help prevent this.

Is it safe to wash shoes with clothes?

It’s not recommended. Shoes can be dirty, and they might transfer dirt to your clothes. It’s best to wash shoes separately.

How often should I wash my shoes?

It depends on how often you wear them and how dirty they get. Generally, washing shoes every few months is enough.

Can I use bleach to wash my white shoes?

Bleach can damage some materials. It’s best to use a whitening detergent or a baking soda solution instead.

What is the best way to get rid of shoe odor?

Use a detergent designed to remove odors, or try soaking the shoes in a solution of water and vinegar before washing. Also, make sure they are dried thoroughly.