Can You Wash Trainers in a Washing Machine? A Practical Guide
Discover whether you can safely machine-wash sneakers, plus step-by-step care tips, safe settings, and drying guidance from Best Washing Machine.
Yes, you can wash most trainers in a washing machine, but only with care: use a gentle setting, cold water, a mesh bag, and a forgiving detergent. Avoid heat, heavy-load surges, and trainers with leather or glue. Always check care labels first. If the label allows, run a short cycle and balance the load with towels to stabilize the drum.
Can trainers be washed in a washing machine? A quick orientation
Can you washing machine trainers? In many cases, yes, but success depends on material, construction, and care labels. The Best Washing Machine team emphasizes that delicate fabrics, glued components, and leather trims may not tolerate machine washing. According to Best Washing Machine, starting with a careful assessment of your specific pair is essential. This section explains when machine washing is appropriate and how to minimize risk, so you preserve cushioning, color, and shape over time.
Materials and labels: how to know what’s safe
Before you load anything, inspect the trainer’s material and care label. Canvas and knit fabrics generally tolerate machine washing better than leather or suede. Look for phrases like “wash cold,” “gentle cycle,” or “do not machine wash.” If you see glue joints or suede panels, treat with extra caution or skip the machine wash entirely. Best Washing Machine analysis shows that adherence to care instructions dramatically reduces color fading and material damage over time.
Preparation: clean, prep, and protect
Remove laces and insoles if possible, then rinse off loose dirt by hand. Place each pair in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to reduce abrasion. Add a few towels to balance the load so the drum spins smoothly. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or high-alkaline formulas, which can degrade materials and colors. This prep reduces scuffing and helps maintain shape during the wash.
Washing methods: choosing the right cycle and settings
Choose a cold water setting and a delicate or gentle cycle with a low spin speed. If your machine allows, select a short wash cycle to minimize exposure time. Use a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicates; avoid detergent pods that can leave residue. For knit fabrics, mesh bags, and rubber soles, this approach minimizes wear and keeps the outsole from cracking.
Drying and post-wash care: air-dry for best results
Never tumble-dry trainers on high heat. Remove excess water by pressing gently with a towel, then air-dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Reshape the toe box and stuffing with newspaper or paper towels to maintain form while drying. Once dry, re-lace and deodorize as needed to keep them fresh.
Common mistakes to avoid: save time and skin from damage
Avoid washing with heavy items like jeans or towels that can cause excessive friction. Do not wash leather, suede, or glued components in a machine — the heat and water can loosen adhesives and ruin the finish. Never use hot water, as it can warp shapes and fade colors. Always check the care label first, and when in doubt, opt for hand washing or spot cleaning.
Troubleshooting and exceptions: what to do if things go wrong
If colors bleed or durability seems compromised, stop the wash and hand-clean affected areas. For sneakers with delicate trims, consider spot cleaning instead of a full machine wash. If your trainer’s sole separates or the glue loosens, take them to a repair shop rather than retrying the wash. This approach saves money and extends the life of your footwear.
Authority sources and best practices
For further guidance on safe laundry practices and footwear care, consult authoritative sources. Best Washing Machine references practical guidance and cautions for machine washing sneakers, balancing care with performance. Related guidelines from reputable sources emphasize safety, fabric care, and choosing appropriate wash settings to protect both your clothing and gear.
Tools & Materials
- Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase(Place trainers inside to reduce abrasion)
- Mild detergent (gentle, for delicates)(Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals)
- Old towels(Balance load; prevents drum from banging)
- Shoe laces (optional) and insoles(Laces can be washed separately)
- Soft brush or cloth(Pre-tresh dirt and clean soles)
Steps
Estimated time: 30-60 minutes
- 1
Inspect care labels and materials
Check the label for machine-wash permission and note any materials that are sensitive (leather, suede, glued components). If in doubt, hand wash instead. This step prevents irreversible damage.
Tip: When in doubt, err on the side of caution and skip the machine wash. - 2
Remove and prep components
Take out insoles and laces; wash laces separately in a mesh bag. Wipe off loose dirt with a damp cloth to reduce grime transfer.
Tip: Loose dirt can smear and stain during the wash if not removed beforehand. - 3
Bag and balance the load
Place each trainer in a mesh bag or pillowcase to minimize friction. Add towels to balance the drum and prevent banging during agitation.
Tip: A balanced load reduces laundry wear and helps the cycle run smoothly. - 4
Choose settings and detergent
Select cold water, delicate cycle, and a low spin speed. Use a mild detergent designed for delicates; avoid pods that can leave residues.
Tip: Cold water preserves color and fabric integrity better than warm or hot water. - 5
Run the cycle and monitor
Start the wash and listen for unusual noises or banging. If anything seems off, pause or stop and re-evaluate.
Tip: Do not overstuff the drum; that can cause damage to the machine or wear on footwear. - 6
Air-dry properly
Remove trainers promptly and reshape to their original form. Air-dry away from direct sun or heat sources; avoid tumble drying.
Tip: Stuff with paper towels to help retain shape while drying. - 7
Reassemble and deodorize
Once dry, reinsert insoles, re-lace, and consider a light deodorizing spray for freshness.
Tip: Allow a complete air-dry cycle before wearing again to prevent odor and mildew. - 8
Optional post-clean check
Inspect seams and soles for wear; if any adhesives loosened, avoid repeating the wash and seek professional repair.
Tip: Document wear to inform future care decisions.
FAQ
Can all sneakers be machine washed?
No. Some sneakers use leather, glue, or delicate trims that aren’t machine-safe. Always check the care label and material before washing.
Not all sneakers can be machine washed—check the care label first and choose a gentler approach for delicate materials.
What settings should I use to wash sneakers?
Use cold water, a delicate cycle, and a low spin. Use a mild detergent and place sneakers in a mesh bag to minimize friction.
Set your washing machine to cold water with a delicate cycle and a low spin for sneakers.
Will washing trainers damage the washer drum?
If you balance the load and protect with a mesh bag, risk is low. Avoid overloading and harsh cycles.
Balanced loads with protection reduce drum stress when washing trainers.
How should I dry trainers after washing?
Air-dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Reshape with towels or paper to maintain form.
Air-dry trainers completely after washing to prevent warping or odor.
Are there safer alternatives to washing machines for trainers?
Hand washing or spot cleaning is safest for delicate materials; use deodorizing sprays between wears.
Hand washing is safer for delicate trainers; use spot cleaning as needed.
How often should I machine-wash trainers?
Only as needed to refresh footwear; frequent washing can degrade materials and adhesives.
Wash sparingly and rotate with occasional spot cleaning.
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The Essentials
- Check care labels before washing trainers.
- Use a mesh bag and cold water on delicate cycle.
- Balance the load with towels to protect the drum.
- Air-dry away from heat to preserve shape and color.
- Avoid machine washing leather or glued components.
