They look brand new! How to wash shoes in the washing machine
Favorite shoes are often worn every day and put through their paces. Over time, street dirt, water stains, and other blemishes can seriously take the joy out of wearing them. Not only do they look unsightly, but in the long run, they can even damage the quality of the material. That is why it is highly recommended to clean your shoes regularly. But what should you do when a shoe brush and cloth just won't cut it anymore, or when your athletic shoes start to smell a bit too strong? This guide shows you if, how, and at what temperature you can safely wash your shoes in the washing machine.
Can I wash shoes in the washing machine?
To remove stubborn dirt, stains, and unpleasant odors from shoes, running them through the washing machine seems tempting. However, most manufacturers advise against washing shoes in the machine. High temperatures and moisture can dissolve adhesives, cause seams to swell, or ruin soles. Washing shoes in the washing machine is therefore always done at your own risk. Generally, shoes made of fabric and synthetic materials can certainly be washed in the machine without falling apart immediately.
Shoe model | Machine washable | Special features |
|---|---|---|
High heels | No | Heels can break off and/or damage the machine |
Leather shoes | No | Heels can break off and/or damage the machine |
Athletic shoes | Yes | Athletic shoes with cushioned soles should not be put in the machine |
Canvas shoes | Yes | Shoes with metal details such as studs must not be put in the machine |
Sneakers/Tennis shoes | Yes | Shoes with metal details such as studs must not be put in the machine |
Hand Washing as an Alternative
If you are hesitant to put your shoes in the washing machine, you can also try washing them by hand. This method is gentler and can be stopped immediately if the material reacts unexpectedly.
Six Tips for Washing Sneakers in the Washing Machine
Sneakers are particularly well-suited for machine washing, as they are usually made of durable synthetic fibers and feature a robust construction. When airing out and brushing them off are no longer enough to get rid of odors and dirt, you can safely wash these shoes in the machine. However, to ensure the shoes are not damaged during the wash cycle, a few basic rules should be followed.
Tip 1: Choose the washing cycle and temperature carefully
When washing sneakers, you should select the gentlest possible cycle at a low washing temperature. 85 °F (30 °C) is perfectly sufficient and prevents adhesives from dissolving or the shoe from shrinking. A delicate, gentle, or wool cycle is ideal, as these are particularly gentle on the material. Spin-drying should also be minimized, and the lowest spin speed should be selected.
Tip 2: Use the right detergent
A heavy-duty or delicate detergent is the perfect choice for gently cleaning shoes. If you are washing white canvas shoes, a whitening detergent can also be used to make the color extra bright. When dosing the detergent, the rule of thumb is: less is more. Fabric softener does not belong in the machine when washing sneakers: fabric softener can damage the fabric and especially the areas where glue was used, thereby ruining the shoe.
Tip 3: Prepare your shoes correctly
Before putting your shoes in the washing machine, a few preparations need to be made. Shoelaces, insoles, and any other loose parts must be removed beforehand. Coarse dirt from the surface and the sole should be removed with a shoe brush or toothbrush, or wiped off with a damp cloth, so that it does not collect in the washing machine and dirty it or clog the hoses. To protect your shoes, you can place them in a laundry bag or a pillowcase. This is also a great way to wash the removed shoelaces at the same time.
Tip 4: Load the machine wisely
Shoes should never be washed alone in the washing machine. Due to the high spin speeds, the shoes will bang against the inside of the drum, which can cause an imbalance and damage the machine. Towels and bed sheets, for example, make great companions for shoes in the washing machine. When the shoes are inside a laundry bag, you also don't have to worry about them damaging the other items in the wash.
Tip 5: Drying shoes correctly
Once your shoes have survived the washing machine unscathed, they need to be dried properly. This is the only way they will keep their shape and prevent mold stains or similar issues. Avoid direct heat from radiators or hair dryers. Instead, sneakers are best dried at room temperature. To prevent warping, a shoe tree or newspaper can be placed inside the shoe. Newspaper has the added benefit of absorbing water, which speeds up the drying process. If possible, shoes should not be put in the tumble dryer.
Tip 6: Waterproof after washing
If the shoes were originally waterproofed, this protection must be renewed after washing. Although waterproofing is water-resistant, this only applies in cold temperatures and up to a certain amount of water. Additionally, waterproofing helps minimize future dirt and stains. However, the waterproofing spray should only be applied once the shoe is completely dry.
How to properly care for shoes
Generally, shoes should be well cared for so that they last long and look great. Dirt, mud, and the like should be removed as soon as possible after wearing, before the grime settles into the fibers. Regular airing out and alternating between different pairs of shoes helps minimize odors. Shoe polish keeps the material soft so that it does not become brittle and prevents dirt from settling in the creases.
White shoes turned yellow after washing: What can I do?
If your once-white shoes have an unwanted yellow tint after washing, this is usually due to adhesive that has dissolved and settled into the fabric. That is why extra caution is needed when washing white sneakers. To remove the yellow from the shoe, a mixture of baking soda and dish soap can help: apply a 1:1 mixture to the shoe using a toothbrush and remove it with a damp cloth after letting it sit for a short time. Often, this household remedy can eliminate a slight yellow tint.
