Dirty shoes ruin the outfit. But let’s be honest, scrubbing them by hand feels like a daunting chore.
The good news? Your washing machine can likely handle the heavy lifting. We will show you exactly how to wash shoes in a washing machine without ruining them (or your appliance).
Keep reading for our simple five-step method. We’ll have your kicks looking fresh in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Check the material: Canvas, nylon, polyester, and cotton shoes are generally washer-safe; avoid washing leather, suede, or vinyl shoes in the machine.
- Prep is key: Remove laces and insoles before washing. Scrub off excess mud to prevent clogging your machine.
- Use the right settings: Select a gentle cycle, cold water, and a low spin speed. Always place shoes in a mesh bag to protect them.
- Skip the dryer: Air dry your shoes to prevent warping or glue damage. Stuff them with paper towels to speed up the process.
Can You Actually Put Shoes in the Washer?
You may have heard mixed advice about tossing sneakers in the washer. We are here to clarify the truth and bust some myths.
The bottom line? Some shoes handle the machine just fine, while others will be ruined instantly.
Safe materials for the washing machine:
- Canvas (like Converse or Vans)
- Pleather (synthetic leather)
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Plastic shoes (gentle cycle only)
- Fabric sneakers, running, or tennis shoes
- Cotton
Materials you must NEVER machine wash:
- Suede
- Real leather
- Shoes with embellishments, such as sequins or heavy beading
- Vinyl
- Formal dress shoes
- Boots
- Shoes with buckles
Caution
The best way to confirm if a shoe is machine-safe is to check the manufacturer’s care label. It is usually located on the tongue or heel interior.
The Best Settings for Washing Shoes
The goal here is “low and slow.” You want to minimize heat and agitation to protect the glue and structure of your footwear.
Cycle: Always use a “Gentle,” “Delicates,” or “Hand Wash” cycle. If you have a modern LG or Samsung washer, look for a specific “Shoes” or “Sportswear” cycle.
Spin Speed: Keep the spin speed low (under 800 RPM) to prevent the shoes from banging violently against the drum.
Temperature: Stick to cold water. Hot water can melt the glue that holds your shoe together, leading to separation.
How to Wash Shoes In a Washing Machine
Ready to clean those kicks? Follow this method carefully to get bright results without the damage.
- Time: 1 hour (plus drying time)
- Difficulty: Easy
What You’ll Need:
- Mild liquid laundry detergent
- Bowl
- Large basin (for soaking laces)
- Soft-bristled brush (or old toothbrush)
- Mesh laundry bag
- Microfiber cloth
- Old towels (to buffer the noise)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brush Off Excess Dirt
Do not throw muddy shoes directly into the washer. It creates a mud soup that isn’t good for the shoes or your machine’s filter. Use your soft-bristled brush to knock off dry mud and debris. Clap the soles together outside to shake off any rocks caught in the tread.
2. Remove Soles and Laces
Take out the insoles and unthread the laces. These parts wash better when separated.
Place the laces in a small mesh bag or a bowl of soapy water to soak. If your insoles are removable, wash them by hand in a basin with a little detergent; machine washing insoles can leave them waterlogged for days.
3. Pre-Treat Stains
Before the machine cycle, spot clean the heavy stains. This ensures an even wash.
Mix a few drops of liquid detergent with water. Dip your brush in the solution and scrub the rubber soles and any grass or food stains on the fabric. Wipe away the suds with a damp cloth.
4. Wash Shoes in the Machine
Place your shoes into a mesh laundry bag. If you don’t have one, an old pillowcase tied shut with a hair tie works in a pinch. We prefer mesh bags because they allow better water flow while keeping the laces from tangling.
Toss the bag into the drum. Add two or three old towels to the load. These act as a buffer to stop the shoes from banging loudly against the drum, which protects both the footwear and your appliance.
Add a small dose of liquid detergent (powder can clump in cold water) and start the cold, gentle cycle.
Top Tip
If using a top-loading washer with a center agitator, ensure the shoes and towels are balanced evenly on opposite sides of the drum to prevent the machine from shaking.
5. Remove and Dry
Once the cycle ends, remove the shoes immediately. Do not leave them sitting in the damp drum, or they will develop a mildew smell. Reshape them with your hands and set them up to air dry.
How to Dry Sneakers Properly
Patience is key here. The safest way to dry shoes is air-drying.
Place them in a warm, breezy spot, like a shaded porch or near a fan. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade colors and yellow white rubber.
Speed up the process: Stuff the inside of the shoes with crumpled newspaper, paper towels, or clean rags. This absorbs excess moisture from the inside out and helps the shoe keep its shape. Change the paper after a few hours if it becomes soaked.
Expect it to take about 24 hours for them to dry completely.
Can You Wash Sneakers In A Dishwasher?
We strictly advise against this.
Dishwashers use extremely hot water and heat drying cycles that will melt glue and warp rubber. Furthermore, dishwasher detergents are harsh and abrasive; they can bleach fabric or degrade synthetic fibers.
Stick to the washing machine or hand washing. It is not worth the risk of ruining your favorite pair.
How to Wash Shoes By Hand
If you are worried about the machine, or if you have delicate leather shoes, hand washing is the way to go. It requires a bit of elbow grease but offers the most control.
- Prep the shoe: Remove laces and insoles. Soak laces in a bowl of soapy water.
- Dry brush: Knock off loose dirt and dust with a soft brush.
- Mix solution: Fill a sink or basin with cool water and a tablespoon of mild laundry detergent.
- Scrub: Dip your brush into the soapy water and scrub the shoes in circular motions. Be gentle on mesh and fabric. Use a firmer hand on the rubber soles.
- Rinse: Wipe the shoes down with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue. Do not submerge leather shoes; just wipe them.
- Dry: Stuff with paper towels and let them air dry away from direct heat sources.
FAQs
What Detergent Should I Use for Shoes?
Liquid detergent is best for washing shoes. Powder detergent may not dissolve fully in the cold water cycles required for footwear, leaving grainy residue on your canvas. Always choose a “mild” or color-safe detergent to prevent fading.
Can I Put My Shoes In the Dryer?
Technically yes, but we rarely recommend it. High heat can warp soles and melt adhesive. If you must use a dryer, use a “rack” attachment (so shoes don’t tumble) and select the “Air Fluff” or “No Heat” setting. Never use high heat.
Can I Wash Shoes With Clothes?
No, you should not wash shoes with your regular clothes. Shoes carry heavy bacteria, mud, and road grime that you don’t want transferring to your shirts. Instead, wash shoes with “sacrificial” old towels or mats that you use for cleaning.
How Do You Stop Shoes From Smelling?
To keep odors away, always wear socks to absorb sweat. You can also sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to neutralize smells (vacuum it out in the morning). For persistent odors, consider charcoal insoles or washing the removable insoles separately.
Ready for Fresh Kicks?
Now that you know how to wash shoes in a washing machine properly, that pile of dirty sneakers doesn’t look so scary. It is an easy way to extend the life of your footwear without spending hours scrubbing.
Just remember the golden rules: cold water, gentle cycle, and never put leather in the machine.
Not sure if your specific pair is safe? When in doubt, stick to the hand-wash method or use a protective laundry bag to be safe.
