Can You Put Shoes In The Washing Machine? Risks and Best Practices

Yes, you can put certain types of shoes in the washing machine. However, it’s not a universal “yes” for all footwear, and you need to proceed with caution. This article will tell you everything you need to know about washing machine shoe cleaning: what shoes are shoe washing machine safe, the best way to wash shoes, the risks involved, and laundry tips for shoes to ensure your sneakers emerge cleaner and not ruined. Let’s dive in!

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Assessing if Your Shoes Are Suitable for Machine Washing

Before you toss your shoes into the laundry machine for sneakers, it’s crucial to determine if they’re actually designed to withstand the process. Not all shoes are created equal, and some materials and constructions simply don’t hold up well to the rigors of a washing machine cycle. Asking “is it okay to wash shoes” is a good starting point, but here’s how to make an informed decision.

Shoe Materials: What’s Safe and What’s Not

The material your shoes are made of is the most important factor. Some materials are generally safe for machine washing, while others are definitely not.

• Safe Bets:

  • Canvas: Canvas shoes like sneakers are usually fine in the washing machine.
  • Nylon: Many athletic shoes, especially those made of nylon, can be machine washed.
  • Polyester: Similar to nylon, polyester athletic shoes are often washing machine safe.
  • Cotton: Cotton shoes can typically handle machine washing.

• Avoid These Materials:

  • Leather: Leather will shrink, stiffen, and potentially crack in the washing machine.
  • Suede: Like leather, suede is extremely sensitive to water and will be damaged.
  • Rubber: While some rubber elements are okay, avoid fully rubber shoes, as they can warp or melt.
  • Shoes with Embellishments: Shoes with glued-on decorations like sequins, beads, or fragile appliques are likely to be damaged.
  • Dress Shoes: Any formal shoe or shoe with delicate construction shouldn’t be machine washed.

Construction Matters: Glued vs. Stitched

Besides the material, the way the shoe is put together is also important.

• Glued Shoes: Shoes with glued soles may come apart in the washing machine. The hot water and harsh detergents can weaken the adhesive.
• Stitched Shoes: Shoes with stitched soles are generally more durable and can better withstand the washing process.

Performing a Spot Test

If you are unsure about your shoes, do a spot test. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent on a small, hidden area of the shoe. If the color bleeds, the material changes, or the glue loosens, do not put them in the washing machine.

Preparing Your Shoes for the Washing Machine

Once you’ve determined that your shoes are suitable for machine washing, you need to prepare them. This step is important to protect both your shoes and your washing machine.

Removing Loose Dirt and Debris

Before placing your shoes in the washing machine, remove as much loose dirt and debris as possible.

1. Tap: Bang the soles of the shoes together to dislodge any rocks or dried mud.
2. Brush: Use a brush (an old toothbrush works well) to scrub away dirt from the soles, uppers, and any crevices.
3. Remove Insoles and Laces: Take out the insoles and laces. These will be washed separately. Removing them allows for a more thorough cleaning of the shoe.

Protecting Your Shoes and Washing Machine

Putting your shoes directly into the washing machine can be noisy and potentially damage both the shoes and the machine. Here’s how to protect them:

• Use a Laundry Bag or Pillowcase: Place each shoe in a separate mesh laundry bag or a tied pillowcase. This will cushion the shoes during the wash cycle and prevent them from banging around too much.
• Add Towels: Add a few old towels to the washing machine along with the shoes. This will further cushion the shoes and help balance the load.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Shoes in Washer

Now that you’ve prepped your shoes, here’s a detailed guide on how to wash them in the washing machine.

Choosing the Right Detergent

Using the right detergent is crucial for effectively cleaning your shoes without damaging them.

• Mild Detergent: Use a mild, gentle detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong stain removers. These can damage the materials and cause discoloration.
• Liquid Detergent: Liquid detergent is often preferable to powder detergent because it dissolves more easily and is less likely to leave residue on the shoes.
• Amount: Use a small amount of detergent. Too much detergent can be difficult to rinse out and can leave a sticky residue on your shoes.

Selecting the Appropriate Wash Cycle

The wash cycle you choose will affect how thoroughly your shoes are cleaned and how much wear and tear they experience.

• Gentle Cycle: Always use the gentle or delicate cycle. This cycle uses less agitation and lower spin speeds, which is less likely to damage the shoes.
• Cold Water: Use cold water to prevent colors from fading, materials from shrinking, and glue from weakening.
• Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can damage certain materials, especially adhesives, and cause colors to run.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place Shoes in Bags: Put each shoe in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
2. Load Washing Machine: Add the bagged shoes and a few old towels to the washing machine.
3. Add Detergent: Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent to the dispenser.
4. Select Cycle: Choose the gentle or delicate cycle with cold water.
5. Start Washing Machine: Start the washing machine and let it run through the cycle.

Drying Your Shoes Properly

After washing your shoes, it’s important to dry them properly to prevent damage, mold growth, and unpleasant odors.

Air Drying is Essential

Never put your shoes in the dryer. The high heat can warp the shoes, melt adhesives, and cause significant damage.

1. Remove from Bags: Take the shoes out of the laundry bags or pillowcases.
2. Reshape: Reshape the shoes as much as possible to help them retain their form while drying.
3. Air Dry: Allow the shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. Sunlight can fade colors and dry heat can damage materials.

Speeding Up the Drying Process

To speed up the drying process, you can use these tips:

• Stuff with Paper: Stuff the shoes with crumpled paper towels or newspaper. This will help absorb moisture and maintain the shoe’s shape. Replace the paper every few hours as it becomes damp.
• Use a Fan: Place the shoes in front of a fan to circulate air and speed up drying.
• Avoid Direct Heat: Don’t use a hairdryer, radiator, or other source of direct heat. These can damage the shoes.

Drying Insoles and Laces

Wash insoles and laces separately by hand or in a laundry bag. Air dry them completely before reinserting them into the shoes.

Shoe Laundry Machine: Are There Alternatives?

While most people use a standard washing machine, some specialized appliances are designed specifically for shoes. But are they worth it?

Specialty Shoe Washing Machines

These machines are typically smaller and designed with gentle cycles and specific cleaning solutions for shoes. They often include features like ozone sterilization to remove odors.

• Pros:
  • Gentle cleaning action.
  • Specifically designed for shoes.
  • May include odor-eliminating features.
• Cons:
  • Can be expensive.
  • May not be suitable for all types of shoes.
  • Limited availability.

Is a Dedicated Shoe Washing Machine Worth It?

For most people, a standard washing machine works well for cleaning shoes, especially when using the recommended precautions. A dedicated shoe washing machine might be beneficial if you frequently wash shoes or own many expensive sneakers you want to protect. However, for occasional cleaning, a standard washing machine is usually sufficient.

Laundry Tips for Shoes: Keeping Them Fresh

Here are some additional laundry tips for shoes to keep them clean and fresh:

• Clean Regularly: Don’t wait until your shoes are filthy to clean them. Regular cleaning prevents dirt from becoming deeply embedded and makes the cleaning process easier.
• Spot Clean: Address stains and dirt spots as soon as possible. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to gently scrub the affected area.
• Use Shoe Deodorizers: Use shoe deodorizers or baking soda to keep shoes smelling fresh between washes.
• Store Properly: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Cleaning Sneakers in Washing Machine: Specific Considerations

When cleaning sneakers in washing machine, there are some specific things to keep in mind:

• Material: Most sneakers are made of canvas, nylon, or synthetic materials, which are generally washing machine safe.
• Laces: Remove the laces and wash them separately. You can wash them by hand or place them in a mesh laundry bag.
• Insoles: Remove the insoles and wash them by hand. Allow them to air dry completely before reinserting them.
• Color: Be aware that some colors may fade slightly during washing. Wash brightly colored sneakers separately or with similar colors.

Washing Athletic Shoes: Maintaining Performance

Washing athletic shoes is a good way to keep them clean, but be mindful of how it may affect their performance.

• Frequency: Don’t wash athletic shoes too often, as this can break down the materials and affect their support and cushioning.
• Detergent: Use a mild detergent specifically designed for athletic wear.
• Drying: Air dry athletic shoes thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth, which can degrade the materials and cause odors.

Fathoming the Risks of Washing Shoes in the Washing Machine

While the washing machine can be a convenient way to clean shoes, it’s important to acknowledge the risks involved:

• Damage to Shoes: Washing machines can damage delicate materials, weaken adhesives, and cause discoloration.
• Damage to Washing Machine: Shoes can bang around inside the washing machine and damage the drum or other components.
• Color Bleeding: Colors can bleed during washing, especially with brightly colored shoes.
• Residue: Detergent residue can remain on the shoes, causing stiffness or irritation.
• Shrinkage: Certain materials, like leather, can shrink in the washing machine.

Table: Shoe Washing Guidelines Based on Material

Material	Washing Machine Safe?	Precautions
Canvas	Yes	Use gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent.
Nylon	Yes	Use gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent.
Polyester	Yes	Use gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent.
Cotton	Yes	Use gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent.
Leather	No	Avoid machine washing. Clean with leather cleaner and conditioner.
Suede	No	Avoid machine washing. Clean with suede cleaner and brush.
Rubber	No (Usually)	Can be wiped down, but avoid fully rubber shoes in the washing machine.
Embellishments	No	Hand wash or spot clean carefully.
Glued Construction	Proceed with Caution	Monitor closely; glue may weaken. Use gentle cycle and cold water.
Stitched Shoes	Yes	Generally more durable and washing machine safe.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Shoes

Q: What is the best way to wash shoes?

A: The best way to wash shoes depends on the material. For machine-washable shoes (canvas, nylon, polyester, cotton), use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, placing the shoes in a laundry bag. For delicate materials like leather or suede, hand washing or spot cleaning is best.

Q: Can I wash my sneakers in the washing machine?

A: Yes, you can wash sneakers in the washing machine if they are made of canvas, nylon, or synthetic materials. Remove the laces and insoles, use a gentle cycle, cold water, and a mild detergent.

Q: How often should I wash my shoes?

A: Wash your shoes as needed, depending on how often you wear them and how dirty they get. For heavily used shoes, washing every few weeks may be necessary. For lightly used shoes, washing every few months may be sufficient.

Q: Will washing my shoes ruin them?

A: Washing shoes in the washing machine can ruin them if you don’t take the proper precautions. Avoid washing shoes made of leather, suede, or those with delicate embellishments. Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent, and always air dry.

Q: Can I use bleach to wash my shoes?

A: No, avoid using bleach on your shoes, as it can damage the materials and cause discoloration. Use a mild detergent instead.

Q: How do I get rid of bad odors in my shoes?

A: To get rid of bad odors in your shoes, you can use shoe deodorizers, baking soda, or place the shoes in a plastic bag and freeze them overnight.

Q: Can I dry my shoes in the dryer?

A: No, never put your shoes in the dryer. The high heat can warp the shoes, melt adhesives, and cause significant damage. Always air dry.

Q: What if my shoes have glued soles?

A: Shoes with glued soles may come apart in the washing machine. Use the gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent, and monitor them closely. If the glue starts to weaken, stop washing them.

Q: Is there a specific washing machine for sneakers?

A: Yes, there are specialty shoe washing machines designed specifically for shoes. They are generally smaller and use gentle cycles and specific cleaning solutions. However, a standard washing machine works well for most people when used with the recommended precautions.