Yes, you can wash many shoes in the washing machine! This guide covers when washing shoes in the washer is safe, how to do it properly for different shoe types, and essential tips to protect both your shoes and your machine.

Key Takeaways

• Check shoe labels for machine washability.
• Prepare shoes by removing laces and insoles.
• Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
• Protect shoes and machine with a mesh bag or pillowcase.
• Air dry shoes; never use a machine dryer.

When Washing Shoes in Washer: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Have you ever looked at your favorite sneakers, stained and scuffed, and wondered if there was an easier way to clean them than scrubbing endlessly by hand? Many people face this dilemma, wondering if tossing their shoes into the washing machine is a good idea. It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Certain shoe materials and construction can be damaged by the washing machine’s tumbling action and harsh cycles. But with the right approach, washing shoes in the washer can be a quick, effective, and safe way to bring them back to life. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from identifying washable shoes to the best cleaning methods. Get ready to discover how to confidently clean your shoes in the washer and keep them looking great.

Are Your Shoes Washer-Friendly? The First Step

Before you even think about opening your washing machine door, the most crucial step is to determine if your shoes are actually suitable for machine washing. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as shoe materials and construction vary wildly. Ignoring this step can lead to irreversible damage, turning your beloved footwear into a soggy, misshapen mess.

Reading Shoe Care Labels

The best place to start is by checking the shoe’s care label or tag. Many manufacturers provide specific cleaning instructions. Look for symbols or text that indicate whether machine washing is permitted. If you’ve long since removed these tags (which is common!), you’ll need to rely on material knowledge.

Materials That Generally Can Be Machine Washed

Certain materials are more forgiving when it comes to the washing machine. These often include:

• Canvas: This durable fabric holds up well to washing. Think classic canvas sneakers.
• Synthetic Mesh: Found in many athletic shoes and trainers, mesh is usually quite resilient.
• Nylon: Similar to mesh, nylon is a synthetic material that can tolerate machine washing.
• Some Knit Materials: Modern knit shoes, especially those designed for athletic or casual wear, are often machine washable.

Materials to Avoid Machine Washing

Conversely, some materials are very delicate and will likely be ruined by a washing machine. These include:

• Leather: Machine washing will dry out, crack, and warp leather, destroying its natural oils and finish.
• Suede and Nubuck: These napped materials are extremely sensitive to water and agitation. They require specialized cleaning methods.
• Wool: While some wool blends might be okay, pure wool can shrink, felt, and lose its shape.
• Shoes with Electronics: Any shoes with lights, sensors, or other electronic components should never go in the wash.
• Shoes with Delicate Embellishments: Sequins, beads, glued-on decorations, or intricate embroidery can be damaged or detached.
• Shoes with Metal Parts: While some eyelets are fine, extensive metal hardware or components could potentially damage the drum of your washing machine.

When in Doubt, Hand Wash!

If you’re unsure about your shoes’ material or construction, or if they contain any of the ‘avoid’ materials, it’s always safer to opt for hand washing. This offers more control and is gentler on delicate items.

Preparing Your Shoes for the Washing Machine

Once you’ve confirmed your shoes are machine-washable, proper preparation is key to a successful cleaning and to protecting your washing machine. Skipping these steps can lead to poor cleaning results, damage to the shoes, or even harm to your appliance.

Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris

Before anything else, take your shoes outside and give them a good shake to dislodge any loose dirt, mud, or gravel. You can also use an old toothbrush or a soft brush to gently sweep away any caked-on dirt from the soles and uppers. This prevents large debris from clogging your washing machine filter or scratching the drum.

Step 2: Take Out Laces and Insoles

Laces can become tangled and knotted, potentially damaging themselves or other parts of the shoe. Insoles, especially foam or cork ones, can absorb too much water, take forever to dry, and lose their shape or support if machine washed. Clean them separately by hand. For laces, you can machine wash them by placing them in a mesh laundry bag.

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains

For stubborn stains, a little pre-treatment goes a long way. Apply a small amount of laundry detergent, a specialized shoe cleaner, or even a paste of baking soda and water directly to the stained areas. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing. This helps to break down the stain more effectively during the wash cycle.

Step 4: Protect Your Shoes and Machine

This is a critical step to prevent your shoes from getting battered around and to protect your washing machine drum from impacts. The best way to do this is by using:

• Mesh Laundry Bags: Place each shoe (or a pair if they are small and lightweight) into a separate mesh laundry bag. This provides a buffer.
• Pillowcases: Tie up each shoe individually in a pillowcase.
• Old Towels: Throwing in a couple of old, color-fast towels with your shoes can help balance the load and cushion the impact. This is especially useful for heavier shoes.

The Washing Machine Cycle: Settings and Detergent

Now that your shoes are prepped, it’s time to set up the washing machine. The goal is to use a gentle cycle with minimal agitation and cool temperatures to avoid damaging the shoe materials and adhesives.

Choosing the Right Cycle

Opt for the most delicate cycle available on your washing machine. This is often labeled as:

• Delicate
• Gentle
• Hand Wash
• Sportswear

These cycles use less water, slower spin speeds, and gentler agitation compared to a normal or heavy-duty cycle.

Water Temperature is Crucial

Always use cold water. Hot water can warp plastic components, weaken adhesives that hold the shoe together, and cause colors to bleed. Cold water is the safest choice for most shoe materials.

Detergent: Less is More

Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Powdered detergents may not dissolve properly and can leave residue. Avoid using bleach or harsh stain removers, as these can damage or discolor your shoes. A small capful of your regular laundry detergent is usually sufficient. If you have sensitive skin or are worried about residue, consider using a detergent specifically designed for athletic wear or delicates.

Load Balancing

If you’re washing only one pair of shoes, it’s a good idea to add a few old towels. This helps to balance the load and prevent the washing machine from becoming unbalanced during the spin cycle, which can cause excessive noise and vibration.

The Best Way to Wash Different Shoe Types

While the general principles apply, some shoe types benefit from specific considerations when machine washing.

Sneakers (Canvas, Mesh, Synthetic)

These are generally the easiest to clean. Follow the preparation steps carefully, use a mesh bag, cold water, and a gentle cycle. For white sneakers, a touch of OxiClean or a similar oxygen-based cleaner can be added to the wash, but always test in an inconspicuous spot first.

Running Shoes and Athletic Shoes

Similar to other sneakers, athletic shoes are usually designed to withstand some washing. Pay extra attention to removing all mud and debris, as these shoes are often used in rougher conditions. Ensure you remove the insoles and wash them separately by hand. The breathable mesh uppers are typically machine washable.

Casual Fabric Shoes (e.g., Espadrilles)

For shoes with fabric uppers like espadrilles, check the sole material. If they have jute or natural fiber soles, machine washing is often not recommended as the water can damage the jute. If the soles are rubber or synthetic, and the uppers are canvas or fabric, proceed with caution using a gentle cycle and cold water. Hand washing is often a safer bet for these.

Shoes with Light Soles or Midsoles

The rubber or foam parts of shoe soles and midsoles can sometimes yellow or degrade with harsh washing. Using cold water and a mild detergent is essential. Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals. Some people find a specialized shoe cleaner or a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide (for whitening) applied before washing can help, but always test first.

What NOT to Do When Washing Shoes in the Washer

To ensure your shoes and washing machine remain in good condition, avoid these common mistakes:

• Never use hot water. It can damage glue, warp materials, and cause colors to run.
• Avoid harsh detergents and bleach. These can break down shoe materials and fade colors.
• Do not overload the machine. Wash shoes in small batches, ideally with towels for balance.
• Never put shoes in a machine dryer. The heat will warp them, shrink materials, and damage adhesives.
• Don’t wash shoes with metal parts unless you are certain they won’t damage the drum.
• Avoid washing delicate materials like leather, suede, nubuck, or shoes with electronics.
• Don’t skip the preparation steps. Removing dirt, laces, and insoles is crucial.

Drying Your Shoes After Washing: The Right Way

This is where many people go wrong. The temptation to speed up the drying process with a machine dryer is strong, but it’s one of the quickest ways to ruin your freshly washed shoes. Heat is the enemy of shoe materials and adhesives.

The Golden Rule: Air Dry Only

Always air dry your shoes. This is the safest method to preserve their shape, material integrity, and longevity.

How to Air Dry Effectively

1. Stuff Them: After removing shoes from the washing machine, gently blot away excess water with a clean towel. Then, stuff the shoes loosely with plain white paper towels or newspaper (avoid colored inks, which can transfer). This helps absorb internal moisture and maintain the shoe’s shape. Change the stuffing material periodically if it becomes saturated.
2. Find a Good Spot: Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Direct sun can cause fading and material degradation.
3. Use a Rack or Stand: Drying racks designed for shoes, or even just placing them on their side, allows air to circulate around them. You can also use a shoe tree if you have one.
4. Be Patient: Depending on the shoe material and humidity, drying can take 24-48 hours or even longer. Resist the urge to rush the process.

What About the Insoles and Laces?

Dry your insoles and laces separately. Lay them flat on a towel or hang them up to dry in the same well-ventilated area.

Pro Tips for Extended Shoe Life

Beyond just washing, a few extra steps can significantly extend the life and appearance of your footwear.

• Regular Cleaning: Don’t wait until shoes are heavily soiled. Wipe down casual shoes after each wear to prevent dirt from setting in.
• Spot Cleaning: For minor scuffs or marks between washes, use a damp cloth, a magic eraser (for rubber soles), or a specialized shoe cleaner for quick touch-ups.
• Deodorizing: If your shoes tend to get smelly, use a shoe deodorizer spray, baking soda, or activated charcoal inserts to keep them fresh.
• Proper Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place, ideally in a shoe rack or their original box. Avoid piling them up, which can cause them to lose shape.
• Rotate Your Footwear: If possible, don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Giving them a day or two to air out completely between wears can help them last longer.

Table: Shoe Material vs. Washing Machine Suitability

This table provides a quick reference for common shoe materials and their suitability for machine washing.

Shoe Material	Machine Washable?	Best Cleaning Method	Notes
Canvas	Yes	Machine wash (gentle cycle, cold water), air dry	Durable and easy to clean.
Synthetic Mesh	Yes	Machine wash (gentle cycle, cold water), air dry	Common in athletic shoes; very resilient.
Nylon	Yes	Machine wash (gentle cycle, cold water), air dry	Similar to mesh, generally robust.
Leather	No	Hand clean with leather cleaner and conditioner	Washing machine will damage natural oils and finish.
Suede/Nubuck	No	Specialized suede brush and cleaner; avoid water	Water will ruin the texture and appearance.
Wool	Generally No	Hand wash with wool detergent or professional clean	Can shrink and felt; check label for blends.
Knit (Athletic/Casual)	Often Yes	Machine wash (gentle cycle, cold water), air dry	Check care label; some knits are delicate.
Shoes with Electronics	Absolutely No	Spot clean only; consult manufacturer	Water and electronics do not mix.
Shoes with Glued Embellishments	Generally No	Hand clean carefully; spot treat	Adhesives can weaken, causing decorations to fall off.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I wash my white canvas sneakers in the washing machine?

A1: Yes, white canvas sneakers are generally safe to wash in the machine. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. You can add a bit of oxygen-based cleaner like OxiClean for extra whitening power, but always test on an inconspicuous area first. Make sure to remove laces and insoles, and air dry them thoroughly.

Q2: How do I wash running shoes without damaging them?

A2: Running shoes, especially those with mesh uppers, can usually be machine washed. Prepare them by removing all loose dirt, laces, and insoles. Place them in a mesh bag or pillowcase and wash on a cold, delicate cycle with mild detergent. Crucially, air dry them completely away from heat and direct sunlight.

Q3: My shoes have a strong odor. Can washing them in the machine help?

A3: Machine washing can help reduce odor by cleaning away the bacteria and sweat that cause smells. For persistent odors, consider adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle (ensure your machine allows this) or using a specialized shoe deodorizer after they are clean and dry. Ensure they dry completely to prevent mildew.

Q4: Is it safe to wash shoes with rubber soles?

A4: Yes, shoes with rubber soles are generally fine for machine washing. The rubber is quite durable. However, avoid hot water, as it can sometimes cause the rubber to degrade or adhesives to weaken. Cold water on a gentle cycle is best. You can also use a magic eraser on rubber soles for scuff marks after washing.

Q5: Can I wash insoles and shoelaces in the washing machine?

A5: It’s best to wash insoles separately by hand, especially if they are made of foam or cork, as machine washing can cause them to lose their shape and support. Shoelaces can usually be machine washed if you place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling.

Q6: How long does it take for shoes to air dry?

A6: Air drying can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, or even longer, depending on the shoe material, thickness, and ambient humidity. Be patient and ensure they are completely dry before wearing them to prevent discomfort and potential odor issues.

Q7: What should I do if my shoes are not machine washable?

A7: If your shoes are made of leather, suede, nubuck, or have delicate embellishments, hand washing is the way to go. Use a soft brush, mild soap (like a dish soap or specialized shoe cleaner), and water. For leather, always follow up with a leather conditioner. For suede and nubuck, use a specialized suede cleaner and brush.

Conclusion

Washing shoes in the washing machine can be a game-changer for keeping your favorite footwear clean and fresh, especially for materials like canvas and mesh. By understanding which shoes are suitable, preparing them correctly, using the right cycle settings with cold water and mild detergent, and most importantly, air drying them properly, you can achieve excellent results without causing damage. Remember that hand washing remains the best and safest option for delicate materials like leather, suede, and nubuck. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped to confidently tackle shoe cleaning, saving time and money while extending the life and style of your shoes. Happy cleaning!