How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine
Master the art of machine washing shoes with our complete step-by-step guide.
Keeping your shoes clean and fresh doesn’t always require a trip to the dry cleaner or spending hours scrubbing by hand. With the right preparation and techniques, you can successfully clean most shoes right in your own washing machine. Whether your favorite sneakers have become dingy or your athletic shoes need a deep clean, machine washing offers a convenient solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about washing shoes in the washing machine, from preparation to drying.
Can You Really Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you absolutely can wash shoes in the washing machine, but not all shoes are suitable candidates for this method. Before tossing your footwear into the wash, it’s essential to check the care label inside your shoes. The manufacturer’s guidelines will indicate whether your shoes can withstand a machine wash cycle. Most canvas shoes, athletic shoes, and certain fabric sneakers handle machine washing well, while delicate materials like suede, leather, and designer shoes should typically be hand-washed or professionally cleaned.
Machine washing takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour when using a delicate cycle, plus additional time for air drying. Keep in mind that shoes will need to air dry completely, typically overnight, before they’re ready to wear again.
Essential Tools and Supplies
Before you begin washing your shoes, gather the following items to ensure the process goes smoothly:
Tools You’ll Need
– A soft brush or old toothbrush for scrubbing
– A sponge for wiping and absorbing moisture
– Old towels for balancing the washing machine load
– Clean rags or paper towels for stuffing shoes during drying
Supplies to Have on Hand
– Liquid laundry detergent (not powder)
– Baking soda for deodorizing and moisture absorption
– A mesh garment bag or pillowcase for protecting shoes and laces
– Optional shoe cleaner for pre-treatment
Step-by-Step Instructions for Washing Shoes
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Before proceeding with any washing method, examine the care instructions on your shoes. This critical first step ensures you won’t damage your footwear. Look for manufacturer recommendations regarding water temperature, washing cycles, and whether machine washing is appropriate. If the label doesn’t specify machine washing or explicitly warns against it, use hand-washing methods instead.
Step 2: Remove Laces and Insoles
Detach the shoelaces from your shoes if they’re removable. This prevents them from becoming tangled around the drum or other machine components. If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out as well. For shoelaces, place them in a mesh garment bag that’s securely closed before washing. For stubborn lace stains, apply laundry detergent and gently scrub with a soft brush before machine washing. Keeping laces separate protects both your shoes and your washing machine from potential damage.
Step 3: Pre-treat and Remove Loose Dirt
Use a soft brush or damp cloth to remove any caked-on mud, dirt, or debris from the shoe’s exterior. Pay special attention to the soles and crevices where dirt accumulates. For the insoles, wipe them down with a soft brush or cloth slightly dampened with soapy water, then use a sponge to absorb excess moisture. If insoles have absorbed odors, sprinkle them with baking soda and let them sit overnight to deodorize before brushing off the powder in the morning. This pre-treatment step prevents your washing machine from becoming overly soiled and helps achieve better cleaning results.
Step 4: Prepare Shoes for the Washer
Place your prepared shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or a clean pillowcase. This protective barrier prevents your shoes from snagging on the drum or other components while also protecting your machine. Securing this bag tightly ensures your shoes stay contained throughout the wash cycle. This step is particularly important for maintaining both shoe integrity and washing machine longevity.
Step 5: Add Towels to Balance the Load
Place the mesh bag containing your shoes into the washing machine along with a few old towels. The towels serve an important dual purpose: they help balance the load, reducing noise and vibration, and they protect your shoes from banging against the drum. Make sure you use old towels rather than new ones, as newer towels may leach excess dye that could stain your shoes. Using 2-3 old towels typically provides adequate cushioning.
Step 6: Select the Correct Wash Cycle and Detergent
This step is crucial for successful shoe washing. Set your washing machine to a delicate cycle with cold water and a slow or no-spin option. Hot water can cause shoes to shrink and become damaged, so always opt for cold water regardless of how dirty your shoes are. Use only liquid detergent or laundry pods, never powder detergent. Powder detergent can get stuck in the shoes if it doesn’t dissolve completely, leaving residue that’s difficult to remove. Liquid options dissolve evenly throughout the wash cycle and rinse away more easily. Add the recommended amount of detergent according to the package instructions.
Step 7: Air Dry Your Shoes and Reinsert Components
Once the wash cycle completes, remove your shoes and laces from the mesh bags and allow them to air dry completely. To expedite drying and help shoes retain their shape, stuff them with clean rags or paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Change out the filling periodically as it absorbs moisture. Place shoes in a warm, well-ventilated area, but avoid direct sunlight for extended periods as this can cause discoloration. Allow at least overnight for complete drying before wearing. Once completely dry, reinsert your insoles and restring the laces.
What Not to Do When Machine Washing Shoes
Understanding what to avoid is just as important as knowing the proper technique. Never wash muddy or heavily soiled shoes with your regular laundry, as dirt can transfer to other garments. Avoid mixing shoes with bright or strong colors in the same load, as dyes can run or transfer to your shoes or other items. Don’t overload your washing machine with too many pairs of shoes at once, as this can prevent proper cleaning and damage the machine. Never use the dryer for your shoes, as high heat causes shrinking and permanent damage. Additionally, avoid using fabric softener or bleach, and never wash delicate materials like leather or suede in the machine.
Will Shoes Shrink in the Washing Machine?
Shoes may shrink if washed on a hot water cycle or dried in a dryer using high heat. The heat causes materials to contract, potentially ruining the fit of your favorite footwear. This is why following care instructions and using cold water is essential. Air drying is the only safe drying method for machine-washed shoes. If you’re concerned about shrinkage, hand washing provides more control over water temperature and duration. Always prioritize the care label instructions, and when in doubt about whether a particular pair can safely handle machine washing, err on the side of caution and wash by hand instead.
Hand Washing Shoes: An Alternative Method
If your shoes aren’t suitable for machine washing or you prefer a gentler approach, hand washing is an excellent alternative. Start by using a soft, wet cloth to clean the soles before stuffing the shoes with rags or newspaper to help prevent liquid from seeping inside. Use a toothbrush to gently remove excess dirt. Mix two cups of water with one-quarter teaspoon of dish soap, creating a mild cleaning solution. Before applying this solution broadly, spot test it on an inconspicuous area of your shoe to ensure it won’t cause discoloration. Dip the toothbrush in the solution and clean your shoes as needed, then use a washcloth to remove excess moisture from the exterior. Finally, remove the rags from inside your shoes and allow them to air dry completely.
Different Shoe Types and Washing Considerations
Canvas and Athletic Shoes
Canvas sneakers and most athletic shoes tolerate machine washing well. These durable materials can handle delicate cycles and cold water without damage. Most modern running shoes and gym shoes fall into this category and respond excellently to machine cleaning.
Delicate or Designer Shoes
Expensive designer shoes or those made from delicate fabrics should be hand-washed or professionally cleaned. The risks of damage typically outweigh the convenience factor with these items.
Leather and Suede Shoes
Never machine wash leather or suede shoes, as water and agitation damage these materials. Always hand wash using appropriate leather or suede cleaning products specifically formulated for these materials.
Drying Your Shoes Properly
Proper drying is essential for maintaining your shoes’ shape and quality. After removing shoes from the washer, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting them. Stuff the interior with clean, absorbent materials like newspaper, unprinted paper towels, or clean cloth rags. Place shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunny windows. Replace the stuffing every few hours as it absorbs moisture. Most shoes require at least 12-24 hours to dry completely. Never use a clothes dryer, hair dryer, or heater to speed up the process, as direct heat damages shoe materials.
Tips for Best Results
– Always check the care label before washing any shoes
– Wash shoes separately from your regular laundry to prevent color transfer
– Use cold water and a delicate cycle without exception
– Never use bleach, fabric softener, or powder detergent
– Protect shoes in a mesh bag to prevent snagging
– Add old towels for proper load balance
– Air dry completely before wearing
– For stubborn odors, sprinkle baking soda inside and let sit overnight
– Consider hand washing for expensive or delicate shoes
Frequently Asked Questions About Machine Washing Shoes
Q: How long does it take to wash shoes in the washing machine?
A: The actual wash cycle takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour using a delicate cycle. However, you must add additional drying time, typically 12-24 hours of air drying before the shoes are completely ready to wear.
Q: Can I wash expensive designer shoes in the washing machine?
A: It’s not recommended. Designer and expensive shoes are usually best hand-washed or professionally cleaned to avoid damage. Always check the care label, and when in doubt, seek professional cleaning services.
Q: What water temperature should I use for washing shoes?
A: Always use cold water. Hot water can cause shoes to shrink and damage the materials. Cold water is just as effective when combined with the appropriate detergent and delicate cycle.
Q: Can I put my shoes in the dryer after washing?
A: No, never use a clothes dryer for shoes. High heat causes materials to shrink and can permanently damage your footwear. Air drying is the only safe method.
Q: What type of detergent should I use for washing shoes?
A: Use only liquid laundry detergent or laundry pods. Powder detergent doesn’t dissolve completely and can get stuck inside shoes, leaving visible residue. Liquid options rinse away cleanly and evenly.
Q: Should I wash my shoelaces separately?
A: Yes, place shoelaces in a mesh garment bag or pillowcase before washing to prevent tangling around the drum. Wash them on a normal cycle in cold water, then hang to air dry. Don’t use the dryer.
Q: How can I remove odors from my shoes?
A: Sprinkle baking soda generously inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb odors and moisture. Brush off the baking soda in the morning. You can also add half a cup of baking soda directly to the washer when machine washing.
Q: Is it okay to wash colored shoes with white towels?
A: It’s best to use old towels of similar color to your shoes when possible. New towels can leach dye, and washing brightly colored shoes with white towels risks transferring color. Always use old towels that have been washed many times.
References
- How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine — Whirlpool. https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/how-to-wash-shoes-in-washing-machine.html
- How to Wash and Dry Shoes — Maytag. https://www.maytag.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/how-to-wash-and-dry-shoes.html
- How to Wash Shoes & Shoelaces — ARM & HAMMER Laundry. https://www.armandhammer.com/en/articles/how-to-wash-shoes-shoelaces-by-hand-or-in-washer
- Can You Put Shoes in the Washing Machine — Boot Buddy. https://bootbuddy.com/en-us/blogs/bootbuddy/can-you-put-shoes-in-the-washing-machine
- How to easily clean your running shoes at home — On United States. https://www.on.com/en-us/stories/how-to-wash-running-shoes
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