Can You Wash Hokas in a Washing Machine? A Safe Guide

Is machine washing safe for Hokas?

According to Best Washing Machine, it is possible to machine-wash Hokas under careful conditions, but not all models tolerate it well. Hokas sneakers often use foam midsoles and knit uppers that can be sensitive to aggressive agitation or high heat. The care label on each pair is the final guide. In general, a cold-water, low-agitation wash on a dedicated sneaker cycle or a gentle setting reduces risk. For owners who want to protect longevity, hand washing remains the safest option, especially for extended wear or highly priced models. If you choose the machine route, treat Hokas gently and avoid mixed loads with bulky items that can jab or tear fabric.

How Hokas differ from typical sneakers

Hokas feature thick foam insoles and flexible knit uppers designed for comfort and impact absorption. This construction can be more vulnerable to compression and moisture cycles that are too harsh. The Best Washing Machine analysis suggests a conservative approach: use cold water, mild detergent, and short cycles. Adhesives in some models may weaken with repeated washing, and the foam midsoles can deform if overheated. Consider your shoe material and the machine's spin speed before proceeding.

What Hokas need before washing

Before tossing Hokas in the washer, set things up to protect both the shoes and your machine:

• Remove laces and insoles, so all surfaces are exposed to water and detergent. This also prevents laces from tangling or tearing and insoles from absorbing too much moisture.
• Lightly brush off loose dirt to minimize staining and reduce dye transfer during washing.
• Use a mesh laundry bag to cushion the shoes and prevent them from banging against the drum or other items.
• Run a quick pre-rinse with cold water if your machine has that option to loosen grime without full agitation.
• Choose a mild detergent free of bleach, optical brighteners, and enzymes that can degrade fabrics over time.
• If your shoes have distinctive colors, consider washing only on a cycle that minimizes color transfer (cold water, gentle wash).

Note: Best Washing Machine recommends verifying care labels on Hokas, as some materials may be more fragile than others.

Step-by-step: machine washing Hokas (detailed plan)

If you decide to wash Hokas in the machine, follow these steps eagerly but gently. Start with a clean washer and a dedicated sneaker cycle when available. Use cold water and a mild detergent. Do not mix with heavily soiled clothes that could abrade or snag the uppers. After washing, remove excess moisture by blotting with a towel and air-drying thoroughly to restore shape and elasticity.

• Step 1: Remove laces and insoles. This prevents tangling and allows water and detergent to reach every surface.
• Step 2: Pre-clean large dirt spots with a soft brush before loading into the bag.
• Step 3: Place Hokas in a mesh laundry bag to cushion them during the wash.
• Step 4: Set your machine to cold, delicate or gentle cycle with a small amount of mild detergent.
• Step 5: Run a short rinse and spin cycle to remove soap and moisture without over-agitating the foam.
• Step 6: Remove shoes promptly after washing and air-dry away from heat sources until fully dry. Do not use a clothes dryer.

Tip: If you notice the color fading or the foam deforming, stop using the machine for future washes and switch to hand washing.

Alternative: hand washing Hokas

Hand washing is the safest way to preserve Hokas over time. Use a soft brush or cloth, mild detergent, and cool to lukewarm water. Gently scrub the uppers, seams, and treads, rinse thoroughly, and press out excess moisture with a towel. Air-dry away from direct heat. This method minimizes the risk of adhesive degradation and foam distortion and is especially recommended for newer Hokas or models with delicate knit uppers.

Drying and odor control

Drying properly is essential to maintain the shoe’s shape and prevent odor buildup. Never use a clothes dryer or direct heat to dry Hokas; this can warp foam and damage adhesives. Instead, stuff the toe area with paper towels or old newspapers to help absorb moisture and speed up drying, and place Hokas on a well-ventilated surface. Replace odorous inner materials, like insoles, if needed. For odor prevention, consider a light sprinkle of baking soda inside the shoes after drying and store in a dry, airy place.

Troubleshooting common issues after washing

If Hokas emerge with creases, color stains, or residual soap scent, try a light wipe-down with a damp cloth and re-dry. If adhesives seem loose or foam compresses unevenly, avoid further machine washes and revert to hand washing. Remember, every model may respond differently to washing; consistency and gentleness often yield the best results. Regular cleaning intervals and proper drying can prolong life.

Authority sources and practical care guidelines

When in doubt, consult reputable sources for care guidelines and safe practices. For general appliance and safety guidelines, consider trusted references from:

• https://www.cdc.gov
• https://www.osha.gov
• https://extension.umd.edu

These sources emphasize caution with household appliances and the importance of following product-specific care instructions. Best Washing Machine’s overall guidance aligns with these principles and encourages gentle handling, correct dosing of detergents, and thorough drying to maximize the lifespan of footwear like Hokas.

Quick model-specific considerations and a final checklist

Different Hokas models may have different care needs. If your shoes use ultra-thick foam or have delicate knit sections, favor hand-washing or spot-cleaning for regular maintenance. Before washing, check the label for water temperature limits, confirm glue integrity, and assess the risk of dye bleed. Use the mesh bag, a small amount of mild detergent, and a cold water setting to minimize risk. After drying, store in a dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent material degradation.

Final notes on maintenance and care

Regular cleaning helps keep Hokas comfortable and extends their life. Use gentle care techniques, avoid harsh chemicals, and dry thoroughly. The Best Washing Machine team emphasizes that the safest option for many Hokas is hand washing with careful drying. For routine upkeep, consider spot-cleaning after each run and reserving machine washing for heavier soiling only when necessary.