Can you put shoes in the washing machine? Yes! Many of us don’t realise that there are lots of different types of shoes that can be washed in the machine, helping to save you time and money. Whether you’ve enjoyed a muddy walk through the park, or your kids have come home from school with mucky trainers from their P.E. lesson, muddy shoes may have a little more life left in them, so don’t throw them out just yet. We’ve got everything you need to know about how to wash shoes in the washing machine.
Should I wash shoes in the washing machine?
Whether or not you should wash your shoes in the machine really depends on what your shoes are made of. You can determine whether or not your shoes are washable by checking the care label, but as a general rule of thumb, it’s best not to machine wash any shoes that are made from animal-based fabrics, like leather or suede. Water can easily damage these materials, so it’s best to use cleaning products that have been specially designed for these fabrics, or you could take your shoes to a professional cleaner.
Likewise, shoes made from delicate materials like satin or silk, or those that are embellished should be cleaned with specialist care. However, there are many other types of shoes that can be safely washed in the machine.
It’s easy to wash trainers in the washing machine, and kids’ shoes, because they’re often made from textiles such as cotton, nylon, and polyester and these materials are able to withstand a machine wash. Some PU or PVC shoes may also be machine washable, so be sure to check the care label to see if you can save time here. After all, why labour over the sink hand washing shoes if you could simply pop them in the machine? Surely the time is better spent with your family or enjoying some much needed ‘you time’?
If the care label of the footwear states ‘hand wash only’ then remember that you may still be able to machine wash your shoes on a ‘hand wash’ setting. Just proceed cautiously.
Washing shoes in the washing machine: A step-by-step guide
Here’s your simple guide on how to wash shoes in the machine quickly and easily:
Step 1: Read the label
Before doing anything else, always read the care label on your shoes to see whether or not they can be washed. The label will suggest the best way to wash shoes based on the type of fabric they’re made from. If your shoes cannot be washed fully (either in the machine or by hand) then an old toothbrush can be used to remove obvious surface dirt. You may also be able to use a damp cloth as an alternative to washing.
Step 2: Prepare your shoes
To prepare your shoes for the washing machine, remove the laces and scrub any loose dirt from the surface – you can use an old toothbrush to get into smaller areas like eyelets and a larger, stiff-bristled brush for the surface of the shoe itself. For more obvious or stubborn dirt, hold the shoes beneath a running tap to remove excess debris and stains. Taking time to prepare your shoes like this will help the washing machine do its job effectively and efficiently.
Step 3: Protect your shoes (and your ears!)
It’s a good idea to pop your shoes, and your laces, inside a mesh laundry bag to protect them from becoming snagged on the inside of the drum. If you don’t have a laundry bag, an empty pillowcase is a good alternative. If you’ve ever tried washing shoes before, you’ll know that it can get a little noisy, so make up the rest of the wash load with towels. These will act as a buffer, helping to stop your shoes banging against the drum during the wash.
Step 4: Prepare your machine
Rather than opting for a warm wash, keep the water temperature at a cooler 30 degrees to prevent the colours of your shoes running or fading. This is especially important if you’re washing PU or PVC, as you don’t want to damage the coating. Use a good colour detergent, like Persil Colour Washing Capsules. Pop one cap into the drum before adding your towels and then your shoes.
Want more information about washing shoes in the machine? Just keep scrolling...
Step 5: Air dry
It’s a good idea to air dry your shoes, rather than tumble drying them. The high heats in the tumble dryer can cause some of the glue to melt, leaving your shoes vulnerable to breaking. Put your shoes in a warm place, and pop some scrunched up newspaper inside. This not only helps to absorb excess moisture, but also makes sure your shoes dry in the correct shape so you know they’ll be as comfortable as ever.
Whether we’re racing from one meeting to the next or just trying to keep up with the kids, our shoes are certainly put through their paces and we bet you’ve come across some pretty unusual stains. Whatever your oddest shoe stain is, our handy washing tips can help you out and there’s even more advice on stain removal in theWashing Tips & Trickssection.
FAQs
Set your washing machine on a delicate, cold water cycle and select a slow or no-spin option. Powder detergent can get stuck in shoes if it doesn't dissolve properly, so use liquid detergent instead. Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your shoes and laces from the mesh garment bags and let them air dry.
Is it okay to wash shoes in the washing machine? ›
Shoes made from canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester should be fine to throw in the washing machine. Most sneakers and tennis shoes are made from fabrics that can take the rough and tumble rigors of a machine wash. Certain shoes don't belong in the washer, like those made from leather, suede, rubber, and vinyl.
How do you wash shoes in the washing machine without a mesh bag? ›
If you don't have a laundry bag, an empty pillowcase is a good alternative. If you've ever tried washing shoes before, you'll know that it can get a little noisy, so make up the rest of the wash load with towels. These will act as a buffer, helping to stop your shoes banging against the drum during the wash.
Can I put running shoes in the washer? ›
Yes, you can put your running shoes in the washing machine. You may wish to still brush the dirt off, then remove the laces and insoles and place it all in a garment bag or a pillowcase. Wash in the washing machine on cold and a gentle cycle. Let them air dry.
Will my shoes get ruined in the washing machine? ›
Shoes made of materials like leather, suede, rubber and vinyl should not be placed in your washer. If your shoes are made of delicate material (like silk) or feature beading, embroidery, sequins or other embellishments, take them to a shoe repair and cleaning specialist to avoid damaging them.
Can I put my Nikes in the washing machine? ›
Nike does not recommend washing shoes in the washing machine. The best way to clean sneakers without damaging them is to brush them with a mild cleaning solution and let them air-dry. It's important to take special care when cleaning suede shoes.
What setting to put shoes in the washing machine? ›
The hand wash or delicate settings have lower spin speeds, and sometimes no spin at all. If you can make sure the spin speed is off or at the lowest possible spin, this reduces the risk of your shoes bouncing around too much and damaging the drum of your washing machine (or damaging your shoes).
Why put shoes in a bag in the washing machine? ›
Place your shoes in a mesh bag
You don't want to hear your shoes slamming against your drum which could potentially damage your washing machine. Place them in a mesh bag or a pillowcase to contain them and lessen the noise.
How to wash shoes properly? ›
- Untie and remove laces from shoes.
- Soak in warm, soapy water. Add a few squirts of liquid dish soap to your bathroom sink or a large bowl. ...
- Scrub stubborn spots. Make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub by hand with a toothbrush.
- Rinse with fresh water. ...
- Lay flat to dry.
Dirty shoes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to infections, athlete's foot, and other health problems. In addition, dirty shoes can also tracking in dirt, dust, and other contaminants into your home or workplace, which can cause respiratory problems.
Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt, including along the rubber edge and tongue. Mix a few drops of dish soap, like Dawn, into a cup of warm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the soapy water and gently go over both shoes.
Can you wash shoes in the dishwasher? ›
Sneakers And Any Non-Leather Shoes
While you should never wash your shoes with your glasses and plates, you can absolutely pick a day to wash all your shoes together in your dishwasher. The biggest thing to remember is to turn off the “heated dry” option, as it will melt the adhesive binding your shoes together.
Is it OK to wash shoes with water? ›
Wash your shoes on a delicate cycle with cold water, then let them air dry. To hand wash leather, vinyl, or rubber shoes, first remove the laces and soak them in soapy water. Then, scrub the outside of your shoes with a soft-bristled brush, like a clean toothbrush, to remove any dirt and debris.
Can I wash my hokas in the washing machine? ›
Please note, we do not recommend that HOKA products are placed in the washing machine for cleaning as it can affect the construction of the style and the materials used.
Does washing shoes disinfect them? ›
If your shoes are washing machine safe, you can also add a cup of hydrogen peroxide to the laundry cycle. This will help disinfect used shoes and remove any stubborn stains or odors. However, always check the care instructions for your shoes before using this method to ensure it won't cause any damage.
Is it safe to put shoes in the dryer? ›
Some dryers have a drying rack designed to dry shoes, but this will only work for certain shoe types, such as cotton or canvas sneakers. You'll also need to ensure you use a low heat setting to avoid damaging your shoes. If your dryer doesn't have a drying rack, you can hang the shoes from the door by the laces.
Can you put Jordans in the washer? ›
Nope. It's much safer for your trainers – and your washing machine – if you hand wash them. Putting your Jordans in the washing machine could damage the glue in them, eventually causing them to fall apart (which would be a bit embarrassing if you've popped out to the shops).
