How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine (Without Damage) (2024)

FAQs

How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine (Without Damage)? ›

Generally, shoes should be washed on a cold, gentle cycle to prevent shrinking and damage. After washing, air dry your shoes overnight. Exposing your shoes to high heat in the dryer can cause them to shrink and become damaged.

Remove the soles and wipe them clean, as sometimes these cannot be washed. Wash your shoes with something else, like a towel, so the shoes don't bounce around and cause any damage to your washing machine. Use a front loader washing machine if possible – they're much gentler than most top loaders.

Wash the shoes by hand using a small amount of liquid laundry detergent mixed with water. Pre-treat stains by applying detergent directly to the spot and allowing it to sit for at least 15 minutes. Clean the entire shoe by scrubbing with a sponge or cloth dipped in the detergent solution.

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.

Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap. For white and light-colored shoes, you can also make an effective cleaning paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water. Note: When it comes to using dish soap, it's important to take caution and dilute the soap with plenty of water.

Generally speaking, shoes made of canvas, nylon, cotton and polyester can safely be washed in a washing machine; however, those made with leather, suede, rubber or vinyl should not be placed in the washer.

You will ruin the leather and not be able to wear them ever again. You could wipe them off with a damp cloth to get any loose dirt off and then rub saddle soap (a leather product that helps to keep the leather supple) on them to make them look much better. Washing leather shoes in the washing machine is never advised.

Mix one tablespoon of hot water with one tablespoon of white vinegar and one tablespoon of baking soda together to form a paste. Using a toothbrush, apply to the shoes in a circular motion, then leave shoes to air for several hours before brushing and shaking off the dried paste.

5. Protect your shoes. To protect your shoes during the washing process, it's recommended to place them inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This will help to prevent damage to the shoes and minimize any noise in the machine.

How do you dry shoes after washing? ›

Wrap a towel or sheet around the outside: Wrap something soft and absorbent around the outside of your shoes to dry the outer areas. Place in a dry area: Keep your shoes indoors, away from direct sunlight, in an area that is dry and well-ventilated.

If you wear the same pair of shoes every day, they should be washed at least every couple of weeks. Of course, it depends on where you are and what you're doing when you are wearing them. Most shoes can just be washed whenever they start to look dirty or smell less than fresh.

Prepare and Pretreat Shoes

Before you throw the shoes straight into the washing machine, take steps to prepare them for success: Remove any shoe inserts (insoles, gel cushions or other orthotics). Remove laces and pretreat by soaking them in a bath of 1:1 white vinegar and water.

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.

You shouldn't wash your shoes in the washing machine with clothes as the dyes in your clothes could stain your shoes. Instead, place a few old towels in with your shoes to prevent them from bouncing around during the wash cycle. Remember to wash your shoes in a mesh garment bag.

Why You Shouldn't Rely on Your Dryer. Not only will your shoes get beat up as they tumble around the dryer, but the heat can also cause your shoes to shrink. Since the perfect fit makes the difference between a supported run and a painful one, you don't want to risk any change to the shape or fit of your shoes.

First things first: Nike does not recommend washing shoes in the washing machine. Properly hand-washing your shoes is the best way to ensure they won't be accidentally harmed in the process. Plus, it's possible to damage your washing machine by washing bulky items, like sneakers, inside.

Put the shoes onto some newspaper and then insert a ball shaped piece of newspaper into the shoe up to the toe and wrap the outside of the shoe in newspaper too. The paper will draw out the moisture. Remove and replace with dry paper after an hour. This is the best method to protect your shoes.