Can You Wash Sneakers in the Washing Machine? A Safe Guide
Discover whether you can wash sneakers in the washing machine, plus step-by-step prep, settings, and material-specific tips to keep footwear clean without damage. Best Washing Machine shares practical guidance for homeowners and renters.
You can wash sneakers in the washing machine, but only with care: remove laces, insoles, and debris; place shoes in a mesh bag; choose a gentle cycle with cold water; use a mild detergent; avoid bleach; air-dry indoors away from heat. This method minimizes wear and preserves shape, especially for canvas and knit sneakers.
Why Sneaker Care Matters
Sneakers are a daily workhorse for millions of households, from commuting to workouts and casual lounging. Regular cleaning not only improves appearance but also extends the shoe’s lifespan by preventing dirt buildup, odor, and fabric breakdown. The best outcomes come from understanding your sneaker materials and choosing the right cleaning method. According to Best Washing Machine analysis, machine washing sneakers can be safe when you follow structured steps and avoid harsh treatments. This article explains how to wash sneakers in the washing machine with confidence, highlighting practical tips for common materials like canvas, knit, and leather. By taking a careful, systematic approach, you can refresh footwear without compromising fit or support, helping your sneakers stay comfortable and looking newer longer.
Can You Really Machine-Wash Sneakers? A Quick Verdict
The short answer is yes for many sneakers, but not every pair. The washing machine can remove grime and odors effectively if you follow best practices and know your materials. The key is to avoid aggressive cycles, hot water, and harsh detergents that can warp shapes or fade colors. We also emphasize pre-cleaning and post-drying care to minimize strain on stitching and adhesives. In practice, canvas and knit sneakers tend to respond better to machine washing than leather or suede, which often require gentler, hand-cleaning methods. For most household use, a canvas sneaker washed on a cold cycle with a mesh bag yields satisfactory results with minimal risk. The Best Washing Machine team recommends starting with a test on a small area or a less visible shoe to gauge how your product responds to the machine.
Pre-Wash Prep: Remove Debris, Laces, and Insoles
Preparation is everything. Start by removing laces and insoles to prevent tangling and to allow the cleaning solution to reach every surface. Brush off loose dirt or mud with a soft brush before introducing water. Empty pockets and check for small items that could damage the drum. If your sneakers have foam padding or heel counters, inspect for wear or separation and consider removing sensitive inserts. Finally, if odor is an issue, quick deodorizing with baking soda can help prior to washing. The goal is to present a clean, balanced load that won’t knock around in the drum during agitation.
Choosing the Right Cycle, Temperature, and Detergent
Always opt for a gentle cycle on cold water. Warm or hot water increases the risk of color fading, fabric shrinking, and adhesive damage. Use a mild, liquid detergent in a small amount—enough to lift grime without leaving a residue. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and heavy-duty cleaners that can degrade materials. If you’re washing a mix of sneakers and linens, balance the load with towels or a few pieces of laundry to prevent bouncing and excessive vibration. After running the cycle, you’ll likely see a noticeable difference in stain removal and overall cleanliness.
How to Protect Shoes: Bags, Inserts, and Load Balance
Protection starts with a proper bag. A sturdy mesh washing bag keeps shoes from banging against the drum and reduces the risk of strap or eyelet damage. Place sneakers laces-tied and snugly inside the bag with a towel or two to cushion impact. Balancing the load is critical—overloading or underloading can strain the washer and lead to uneven cleaning. If you have multiple pairs, wash one or two at a time to maintain even agitation. Consider removing highly absorbent insoles to prevent waterlogged footwear and to speed up drying.
Material-Specific Guidance: Canvas, Knit, Leather, and Suede
Canvas sneakers typically tolerate machine washing well, especially when air-dried thoroughly. Knit fabrics can loosen over time if agitated too aggressively, so stick to shorter cycles and cold water. Leather and suede require more caution; machine washing is often not recommended for these materials due to potential stiffness, scuffing, and water damage. For leather, spot-clean with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner; for suede, use a dry brush and protective sprays. Always consult the shoe manufacturer’s care label when possible, and consider hand-washing if your sneakers have delicate details or if colorfastness is uncertain.
Drying, Deodorizing, and Post-Care
Air-drying is essential after machine washing. Remove the shoes from the bag and stuff them with paper towels or clean cloth to help maintain shape and absorb moisture. Dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent warping or cracking. Do not use a clothes dryer. After drying, reinsert insoles and laces, and consider a baking-soda deodorizing routine between wears to keep smells at bay. If the odor lingers, repeat the wash with a smaller amount of detergent and an extended rinse cycle.
Common Mistakes That Break Shoes (and How to Avoid Them)
Common mistakes include using hot water, bleaches, overloading the washer, and failing to secure laces or insoles. Hot water can warp materials, while bleach can discolor fabrics. Overloading causes uneven cleaning and excessive wear on the drum. Skipping the mesh bag can lead to tearing and hardware damage. Always verify that the shoe’s material and construction are compatible with machine washing and consider hand-cleaning if any doubt remains. A cautious approach protects your investment and keeps sneakers looking fresh longer.
When to Hand-Wash or Skip the Machine
Some sneakers simply aren’t suited for the washing machine. Leather, suede, and certain sport-specific designs may suffer from machine agitation, water exposure, or adhesive breakdown. If the shoe has delicate stitching, glitter accents, or non-removable parts, hand-washing with a soft brush and a mild cleaner is a safer option. Additionally, if you’ve recently had repairs or the shoes feel stiff or misshapen, hand washing could prevent further damage until you’re sure machine washing is appropriate.
Tools & Materials
- Mesh washing bag(Place each pair inside a separate bag; close zipper before washing)
- Mild detergent(Liquid detergent preferred; use small amount)
- Soft brush or microfiber cloth(Gently remove surface dirt before washing)
- Old towels or rags(Balance drum and cushion shoes during wash)
- Shoe inserts removed prior to wash(Air-dry separately)
- Paper towels or newspaper(Stuff to help maintain shape while drying)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Remove debris and prep
Take out laces and insoles, empty pockets, and brush off loose dirt. This reduces particle buildup and prevents tangling in the machine.
Tip: Tie laces together to prevent them from getting lost; or remove and wash separately. - 2
Bag and balance
Place each sneaker in a mesh bag and add a towel to balance the load. Buckle the bag to keep it closed during agitation.
Tip: Avoid washing a single bulky pair—balance helps prevent drum strain. - 3
Select cycle and detergent
Choose a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, or heavy cleaners.
Tip: If your washer has a 'delicate' or 'hand wash' setting, use it for added protection. - 4
Load and start
Place the mesh bags in the drum, ensuring they have room to move. Start the cycle and monitor the first run for unusual vibration.
Tip: Stop if you hear grinding; adjust the load and try again with a longer rinse. - 5
Air-dry properly
Remove shoes from the bag and stuff with paper towels to keep shape. Dry in a well-ventilated area away from heat and direct sun.
Tip: Do not use a clothes dryer; heat can warp glue and materials.
FAQ
Can all sneakers be washed in a washing machine?
Not all sneakers are suited for machine washing. Canvas and knit sneakers generally fare better on cold, gentle cycles, while leather and suede may require hand-cleaning. Always check the care label when possible.
Most canvas and knit sneakers can be machine washed on cold, gentle cycles, but leather and suede are usually better hand-cleaned. When in doubt, follow the care label.
What cycle and temperature should I use?
Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Hot water can warp materials and damage adhesives. Always pair with a mild detergent and avoid bleach.
Choose a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid hot water and bleach.
Do I need to dry sneakers outside or inside?
Air-dry sneakers indoors in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat. Stuff with paper towels to help keep shape and reduce moisture.
Air dry indoors with good airflow; stuff with paper towels to maintain shape.
Should I remove insoles before washing?
Yes, remove insoles before washing to prevent water absorption and potential odor development. Dry insoles separately.
Remove insoles and wash or dry them separately.
Is it ok to use a dryer?
No, do not use a clothes dryer. The heat can warp materials and damage glue. Air-drying is the safe alternative.
Avoid the dryer—air-dry instead.
What should I do if colors faded after washing?
If colors fade, stop using bleach and consider washing with color-safe detergent in future cycles. Rinse thoroughly and air-dry completely.
If colors fade, use color-safe detergents and air dry.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Prep sneakers before washing to prevent damage.
- Choose cold, gentle cycles and a mild detergent.
- Bag footwear to protect both shoes and machine.
- Air-dry completely to maintain shape and glue integrity.
- Hand-wash stays a good option for leather and suede.
