Have your favorite sneakers seen better days? Are they looking a bit dingy and smelling less than fresh? You might be wondering, can I just toss them in the washing machine? The answer is: sometimes! Washing machine shoe cleaning can be a lifesaver, but it’s important to know how to do it right. This guide will walk you through the best way to wash sneakers, protect them, and keep them looking great.
Knowing Which Shoes Can Handle the Washing Machine
Not all shoes are created equal. Some are fine for a spin in the washing machine, while others should definitely be hand-washed. Before you throw your shoes in, check the label and consider their materials.
Good Candidates for the Washing Machine:
- Canvas Shoes: These are usually the easiest to wash. Canvas sneakers, like Converse or Vans, can handle a wash. Cleaning canvas shoes in washer is generally safe.
- Nylon and Polyester Athletic Shoes: These materials are durable and often found in running shoes or everyday sneakers. How to wash running shoes in washing machine depends on the fabric.
- Some Synthetic Materials: Many newer sneakers use synthetic materials that are designed to be water-resistant and washable.
- Cloth Shoes: Lightly soiled fabric shoes can benefit from a gentle machine wash.
Shoes You Should NOT Put in the Washing Machine:
- Leather Shoes: The washing machine can ruin leather. It can dry it out, crack it, or make it stiff.
- Suede Shoes: Like leather, suede is very delicate. Water and the washing machine are a bad combination.
- Shoes with Embellishments: Shoes with glued-on beads, sequins, or other decorations might lose these embellishments in the wash.
- Dress Shoes: Formal shoes often have fragile constructions and materials that can’t handle machine washing.
- Shoes with Memory Foam or Gel Inserts: These can sometimes break down or become misshapen.
- Shoes with Rubber or Cork Soles: These materials can fall apart or crumble when exposed to high heat.
Preparing Your Shoes Before Washing
Before you put your shoes in the washing machine, a few important steps are needed. These steps will help you achieve the best results and prevent damage.
- Remove Loose Dirt and Debris: Bang your shoes together outdoors to remove loose dirt, mud, or rocks. You can also use a brush to scrub off any remaining debris.
- Remove Laces and Insoles: Washing sneakers with laces still on them will mean the laces will likely get tangled. Take them off and wash them separately in a mesh bag. You should also remove the insoles. Cleaning insoles in washing machine is possible but they are better washed by hand. This allows them to dry properly.
- Place Shoes in a Mesh Laundry Bag: Putting your shoes in a mesh bag helps to protect them. The bag will prevent the shoes from banging around too much in the drum. This will also help protect your washing machine.
- Pre-Treat Stains: If your shoes have tough stains, pre-treat them with stain remover. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing. You can also use a mix of water and mild detergent.
- Check for Damage: Check your shoes for any rips or loose parts. If something is already damaged, washing can make it worse. Repair it if possible before washing.
The Best Way to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine
Now that your shoes are prepped, it’s time to get them clean! Here’s a step-by-step guide for machine washable shoes:
- Load the Washing Machine: Place your shoes (inside their mesh bag) in the washing machine. Add a few old towels to help cushion them and balance the load. This helps reduce banging and noise.
- Choose the Right Cycle: Select a gentle or delicate cycle. The water should be cold or lukewarm. Hot water can damage shoe materials and fade colors.
- Add Mild Detergent: Use a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
- Start the Wash Cycle: Start the machine. Let it run through its cycle.
- Rinse Thoroughly: If your machine does not have a good rinse cycle, you can run another rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed. Detergent residue can cause stiffness.
- Skip the Dryer: The heat from a dryer can damage your shoes, especially glue and rubber parts. Let them air dry instead.
Machine Washable Shoes Guide: Specifics to Keep in Mind
Different shoes need different considerations when it comes to washing. Here’s a closer look:
- Washing Running Shoes in Washing Machine: Running shoes with mesh and synthetic uppers can be washed following the guide above. Make sure to remove any electronics or removable accessories that may be inside the shoe.
- Cleaning Canvas Shoes in Washer: Canvas shoes respond well to machine washing. Make sure to pre-treat any stubborn stains. Also, remove the insoles to avoid water logging.
- Washing Sneakers with Laces: If laces are particularly dirty, wash them in a separate mesh bag. For better results, you can soak them in soapy water. It helps to loosen the dirt before washing.
- Washing Shoes with Delicate Cycle: Using the delicate cycle or a low spin cycle is important. It will help prevent damage to the shoes.
- How to Prevent Shoe Damage in Washing Machine: To minimize shoe damage, you should always use a mesh bag, wash in cold water, skip the dryer, and use a gentle cycle.
Drying Your Shoes Properly
Drying is just as important as washing. Improper drying can ruin your shoes just as quickly as a bad wash cycle.
- Air Dry Only: Never put your shoes in the dryer. The high heat can damage the glue and materials.
- Stuff with Paper Towels or Newspaper: Crumple some paper towels or new spaper and stuff them inside your shoes. It will help them keep their shape. It also will absorb excess moisture. Change the stuffing every few hours until the shoes are dry.
- Air Dry in a Well-Ventilated Area: Place your shoes in a place with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade.
- Be Patient: It may take a day or two for your shoes to dry completely. Make sure they are completely dry before wearing them. Damp shoes can cause mildew and bad odor.
- Dealing with Stiff Shoes: If the shoes feel stiff after drying, you can try bending them gently. This will help to soften them up.
Shoe Washing Machine Tips
Here are some extra tips to make your shoe-washing experience even better:
- Wash Shoes in Small Batches: Don’t overcrowd the washing machine. Too many shoes will not clean well and cause damage to your machine.
- Use an Old Pillowcase: If you don’t have a mesh laundry bag, an old pillowcase can work in a pinch.
- Clean Your Washing Machine: Run an empty cycle with vinegar after washing shoes. It will help to clean the machine drum of any debris or dirt from the shoes.
- Don’t Wash Too Often: Frequent machine washing can shorten the life of your shoes. Try spot cleaning or hand-washing when you can.
- Check the Washing Machine: Make sure nothing is broken before running the cycle. Damaged machines will not clean shoes as well.
- Use a Soft Brush: Use a soft-bristled brush for pre-treating shoes. Old toothbrushes work well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I wash my running shoes with insoles in the washing machine?
A: It’s best to remove the insoles before washing. They may not dry properly if left in and could warp or degrade.
Q: Can I wash white shoes with bleach in the washing machine?
A: Using bleach on shoes can yellow white fabrics. It is better to use a color-safe stain remover and a mild detergent.
Q: How often should I wash my shoes in the washing machine?
A: Wash your shoes only when they are visibly dirty or smelly. Over-washing can damage the materials.
Q: Can I put shoes with rubber soles in the washing machine?
A: Some rubber soles can handle a wash. Check for cracks or looseness before machine washing.
Q: What if my shoes still smell bad after washing?
A: Make sure your shoes are completely dry. You can use a shoe deodorizer or place a dryer sheet inside them.
Q: What type of detergent is best for washing shoes?
A: Use a mild, gentle detergent. Harsh chemicals can damage shoe materials.
Q: My shoes got stiff after drying, how do I fix that?
A: Gently bend and flex your shoes by hand. You can also apply a leather conditioner if it is suitable for your type of shoe.
Q: Is it okay to wash brand new shoes in the washing machine?
A: If they are suitable for machine washing, yes. This can remove any manufacturing smells or residue.
Washing your shoes in a washing machine can be a convenient way to keep them clean. By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your favorite pairs looking and smelling their best! Remember to check your shoes’ material, prepare them carefully, and always air dry. Happy cleaning!