Can I Wash Shoes In Washing Machine? A Complete Guide

Yes, you can wash shoes in a washing machine, but it’s not a universal “yes” for every type of shoe. Knowing which shoes are safe for a machine wash and how to do it properly is crucial to prevent damage and prolong the life of your footwear. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about washing shoes safely in your laundry machine.

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Is Washing Shoes in Washing Machine a Good Idea? Deciding if Your Shoes Are Suitable

Before you toss your shoes into the laundry machine, it’s vital to assess whether they’re actually suitable for this type of cleaning. Not all materials and constructions can withstand the rigors of a washing machine.

Shoes You Can Generally Wash in a Machine:

• Canvas Shoes: Sneakers, slip-ons, and athletic shoes made of canvas are typically good candidates.
• Nylon or Polyester Athletic Shoes: Many running shoes and training shoes made from synthetic materials handle machine washing well.
• Synthetic Materials: Shoes made from materials like nylon, polyester, and cotton blends are generally safe for machine washing.

Shoes You Should Never Wash in a Machine:

• Leather Shoes: Leather can become stiff, cracked, or discolored when exposed to water and the tumbling action of a washer.
• Suede Shoes: Similar to leather, suede is highly susceptible to damage from water and should be cleaned using specialized suede cleaning methods.
• Shoes with Embellishments: Shoes with glued-on beads, sequins, or other delicate embellishments are likely to lose them in the washing machine.
• Shoes with Memory Foam Insoles: The memory foam can degrade and crumble after being wet for a long time.
• Dress Shoes: Dress shoes usually have delicate construction and fine materials that won’t withstand the wash.

How to Tell if Your Shoes Are Washable:

• Check the Care Label: Look for a care label inside the shoe or on the original packaging. This label may provide specific washing instructions.
• Material Assessment: Evaluate the primary materials of the shoe. If they are mostly canvas or synthetic, you’re likely in the clear.
• Construction: Examine how the shoe is put together. Glued soles may separate in the washer.

Step-by-Step: Shoe Washing Guide for Laundry Machine

Once you’ve determined that your shoes are suitable for machine washing, follow these steps for the best and safest results.

1. Preparation is Key

• Remove Loose Dirt: Bang the shoes together or use a soft brush to remove any loose dirt, mud, or debris from the soles and uppers. This prevents the washing machine from getting overly dirty.
• Take Out Laces and Insoles: Remove the shoelaces and insoles. These should be washed separately. You can hand wash the insoles with mild soap and water or replace them altogether. Shoelaces can be placed in a mesh laundry bag and washed along with the shoes.

2. Pre-Treating Stains (If Necessary)

• Identify Stains: Check for any stubborn stains, such as grease or grass stains.
• Apply Stain Remover: Use a stain remover specifically designed for the shoe material. Follow the product instructions carefully. For example, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste for removing stains from white canvas shoes.

3. Protective Measures for Washing Machine Shoe Cleaning

• Use a Mesh Laundry Bag: Place each shoe in a separate mesh laundry bag. This prevents the shoes from banging around inside the machine, reducing the risk of damage to both the shoes and the washer drum. Pillowcases can work as an alternative, but mesh bags offer better protection.
• Add Towels: Toss in a few old towels to cushion the shoes during the wash cycle. This further minimizes impact and noise.

4. Washing Machine Settings: The Right Cycle is Crucial

• Cold Water: Always use cold water to wash shoes. Hot water can damage certain materials and cause colors to fade or bleed.
• Gentle Cycle: Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine. This cycle uses a slower spin speed, which is kinder to your shoes.
• Detergent: Use a small amount of mild liquid laundry detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the shoe materials.
• No Spin Cycle (Optional): Consider turning off the spin cycle or setting it to the lowest speed. High spin speeds can cause the shoes to warp or lose their shape.

5. Drying: Avoiding Heat Damage

• Air Dry Only: Never put shoes in the dryer! The high heat can melt adhesives, warp the shape of the shoes, and cause materials to shrink or crack.
• Stuff with Paper Towels: Stuff the shoes with paper towels or white cloths to help them maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Change the paper towels regularly as they become damp.
• Indirect Sunlight: Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Direct sunlight can cause colors to fade.

Best Way to Wash Shoes: Hand Washing as an Alternative

While laundry machine shoe cleaning can be convenient, hand washing is often a safer option, especially for more delicate shoes.

Hand Washing Method:

1. Prepare a Solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water in a bowl or basin.
2. Clean the Shoes: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the shoes, paying attention to areas with dirt or stains.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the shoes with clean water to remove all traces of soap.
4. Air Dry: Stuff the shoes with paper towels and allow them to air dry as described above.

Washing Shoes Safely: Precautions to Avoid Shoe Damage

Taking precautions is important for the safe cleaning shoes in washer.

Potential Risks of Machine Washing:

• Sole Separation: The glue holding the sole to the upper can weaken and cause the sole to separate.
• Material Damage: Materials like leather, suede, and certain synthetic fabrics can be damaged by water and the washing machine’s agitation.
• Shape Distortion: Shoes can lose their shape, especially if exposed to high heat during drying.
• Color Fading: Colors can fade or bleed, particularly with darker or brightly colored shoes.
• Washer Damage: Shoes can damage the washing machine drum, especially if they are not properly protected in a mesh bag.

Shoe Washing Tips for Minimizing Risks:

• Use a Gentle Touch: Always opt for the gentle cycle and avoid harsh detergents.
• Protect the Shoes: Use mesh laundry bags and add towels to cushion the shoes.
• Air Dry Properly: Never use a dryer; always air dry with proper ventilation.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean shoes regularly to prevent dirt buildup, reducing the need for aggressive washing methods.

Cleaning Shoes in Washer: Specific Shoe Types

Different types of shoes may require slightly different approaches when it comes to cleaning.

Canvas Shoes:

• Canvas shoes are generally quite durable and can withstand machine washing well.
• Pre-treat any stains with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water.
• Use cold water and a gentle cycle.

Athletic Shoes:

• Check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing.
• Remove insoles and laces.
• Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the shoes and the washing machine.

White Shoes:

• To brighten white shoes, you can add a small amount of oxygen bleach (non-chlorine) to the wash.
• Consider using a whitening toothpaste to scrub stubborn stains before washing.
• Air dry in a shaded area to prevent yellowing.

Washing Machine Shoe Damage: Identifying and Preventing Problems

Even with careful precautions, damage can sometimes occur when washing shoes in a washing machine.

Common Signs of Damage:

• Sole Separation: The sole starts to peel away from the upper.
• Cracked or Stiff Leather: Leather becomes hard and brittle.
• Faded Colors: Colors look dull or have bled onto other parts of the shoe.
• Warped Shape: The shoe no longer holds its original form.
• Damaged Embellishments: Beads, sequins, or other decorations have fallen off.

How to Prevent Damage:

• Assess Suitability: Carefully evaluate whether your shoes are suitable for machine washing.
• Follow Instructions: Adhere to the step-by-step guide and use appropriate settings and detergents.
• Inspect Regularly: Check your shoes for any signs of wear and tear before and after washing.
• Consider Professional Cleaning: For valuable or delicate shoes, consider having them professionally cleaned.

Shoe Care Washing Machine: Maintaining Your Shoes Post-Wash

After washing your shoes, proper care is essential to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan.

Post-Wash Care Tips:

• Re-Shape the Shoes: While the shoes are still damp, reshape them by hand to restore their original form.
• Apply Conditioner (for Leather): If you’ve washed leather shoes (against recommendations), apply a leather conditioner to help restore moisture and prevent cracking.
• Use Shoe Trees: Insert shoe trees into your shoes to help them maintain their shape while they dry and during storage.
• Store Properly: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe boxes or storage bags to protect them from dust and damage.

Fathoming the Alternatives: When Not to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, machine washing isn’t the best option. It’s helpful to know some alternative cleaning methods.

• Spot Cleaning: For minor dirt or stains, spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap can be effective.
• Specialized Cleaning Products: Use cleaning products specifically designed for your shoe’s material, such as leather cleaners, suede cleaners, or canvas cleaners.
• Professional Shoe Cleaning: For expensive or delicate shoes, professional cleaning services can provide a thorough and safe cleaning.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I wash my shoelaces in the washing machine?
  Yes, you can wash shoelaces in the washing machine. Place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from getting tangled.
  

• What temperature should I use to wash shoes?
  Always use cold water to wash shoes in the washing machine to prevent damage and color fading.
  

• Can I use bleach to wash white shoes?
  It’s best to avoid chlorine bleach, as it can damage shoe materials. Use oxygen bleach (non-chlorine) sparingly for white shoes.

• How often should I wash my shoes?
  Wash your shoes as needed, depending on how often you wear them and how dirty they get. Regular spot cleaning can reduce the need for frequent washing.

• Can I wash more than one pair of shoes at a time?
  It’s generally best to wash only one or two pairs of shoes at a time to prevent overcrowding and ensure they are properly protected.

• What type of detergent is best for washing shoes?
  Use a mild, liquid laundry detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents with added bleach.

• Can I dry my shoes outside in the sun?
  Avoid drying shoes in direct sunlight, as this can cause colors to fade and materials to become brittle.

• My shoes smell after washing them, what can I do?
  Make sure the shoes are completely dry. You can also sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes to absorb odors or use a shoe deodorizer spray.

• What if the sole of my shoe starts to come apart after washing?
  Use a strong adhesive specifically designed for shoe repair to reattach the sole. Clean and dry both surfaces before applying the adhesive.

• Is it safe to wash expensive sneakers in the washing machine?
  For expensive sneakers, it’s often best to hand wash them or have them professionally cleaned to minimize the risk of damage.