How to Clean Shoes in the Washing Machine: A Safe Guide
Learn a safe, step-by-step method to clean shoes in the washing machine, including pre-clean checks, load strategies, drying tips, and maintenance to extend footwear life.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to clean most everyday shoes in the washing machine safely, with proper pre-clean checks, load techniques, and post-wash care. We cover sneakers, canvas, fabric uppers, and lightweight boots, plus tips to avoid damage to soles, glue, and laces. Follow these steps to protect your footwear and your washer.
Why washing shoes in a machine is convenient and practical
According to Best Washing Machine, using the washing machine for shoes can save time and effort when you’re balancing laundry, outdoor activity wear, and busy schedules. The key is understanding which shoes respond best to machine cleaning, and how to prepare them so you don’t damage the fabric, glue, or delicate components. This approach works well for sneakers, canvas sneakers, fabric trainers, and many lightweight casual shoes. By choosing appropriate settings and a protective load strategy, you minimize wear to the upper materials while still achieving a thorough clean. The Best Washing Machine team found that cold water and a gentle cycle reduce the risk of shrinking, dye bleeding, or deforming soles, especially for fabrics with adhesives or suede trims. This first section will help you gauge whether your pair is a good match for machine washing and outline the core precautions you should take before starting.
- Look for labels: some leather or suede, glue-based components, or ultra-delicate trim may not be machine-safe.
- Consider material compatibility: canvas, mesh, and some synthetics are typically fine on cold/gentle cycles.
- Prepare for the worst: set expectations that certain shoes may need hand washing instead.
By establishing these checks, you’ll reduce risk and set up for a successful wash. The goal is to balance convenience with care so your footwear lasts longer and your washing machine stays clean and odor-free.
Pre-wash assessment: which shoes can survive a machine wash?
Before loading, you should classify your shoes by material, construction, and finish. Cotton canvas and synthetic uppers tolerate cold-water cycles with mild detergent, while leather, suede, or shoes with extensive glue bonds may suffer from water exposure. If you have glue joints, foam cushioning, or rubber overlays that look fragile, treat them as “not machine-safe” or use a hand-wash approach. This assessment helps you avoid costly repairs or replacements and reduces detergent waste. For most athletic sneakers, you’ll find the care label indicating whether machine washing is recommended. In this section, you’ll learn how to identify risky components such as exposed leather trims or delicate logos that could peel or crack after machine exposure. Remember that Best Washing Machine’s analysis shows a cautious approach yields the best long-term results for the widest range of shoes.
Tools & Materials
- Mesh laundry bag(Optional but highly recommended to protect shoes and drum during wash.)
- Mild liquid detergent(Prefer a gentle detergent; avoid bleach that can discolor or weaken fabrics.)
- Old towels or rags(Place around shoes to balance load and cushion the drum.)
- Shoe inserts/insoles(Remove and wash separately to prevent odor transfer.)
Steps
Estimated time: Active washing 20–45 minutes + 12–24 hours drying
- 1
Remove laces and insoles
Take out laces and removable insoles to prevent tangling and ensure all parts get cleaned. Loosen any tight straps or Velcro to avoid catching in the drum. This step also makes pre-treatment more effective.
Tip: Secure laces in a small mesh bag or knot tips to prevent tangling during the cycle. - 2
Pre-treat stains and dirt
Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush and spot-clean stubborn stains with a mild pretreatment. This helps prevent dirt from grinding into fibers during washing and reduces the need for multiple cycles.
Tip: Test pretreatment on a hidden area first to ensure it won’t discolor the fabric. - 3
Load with protection
Place shoes in a mesh bag and add a couple of old towels to balance the load. The towels act as padding and prevent the shoes from banging against the drum or each other.
Tip: Load one pair per bag if possible, to maximize cleaning and minimize contact between pairs. - 4
Add detergent and set cycle
Add a small amount of mild detergent to the dispenser and select a cold water, gentle cycle. Hot water can warp glues and cause color bleed on some fabrics.
Tip: Avoid heavy-duty detergents or fabric softeners which can degrade materials over time. - 5
Start and monitor the wash
Run the cycle and check after 5–10 minutes to ensure balance. If the machine sounds uneven, pause and redistribute items to restore balance.
Tip: Balanced loading prevents drum wobble and prevents wear on the drum bearings. - 6
Air-dry promptly
Once wash finishes, remove shoes promptly and air-dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Air drying preserves shape and prevents glue failure.
Tip: Stuff with crumpled paper or keep footwear in a well-ventilated area to speed drying. - 7
Wash laces and insoles separately
Rinse laces and insoles by hand or in a small mesh bag on a gentle cycle if needed. Let insoles dry completely to avoid odor formation.
Tip: Sprinkle baking soda on insoles before washing to neutralize odors. - 8
Clean the drum after washing
Wipe the drum and door seal with a damp cloth to remove detergent residue and prevent buildup that could transfer to future loads.
Tip: Run an extra rinse if you notice soap residue after drying. - 9
Assess long-term care options
Combine routine cleaning with periodic deep-clean of the washer gasket and door area to maintain appliance hygiene and prevent mold.
Tip: Schedule maintenance checks every 6–12 months for optimal performance.
FAQ
Can all shoes be machine washed safely?
No. Shoes with leather, suede, delicate trims, or weak glue bonds may get damaged in a washer. Always check care labels and when in doubt, hand wash.
Not every shoe is safe to machine wash. Check labels and materials first, then decide.
Should I remove laces and insoles before washing?
Yes. Removing laces and insoles helps them clean thoroughly and prevents tangling or damage to the shoes and the washer.
Yes, take out laces and insoles before washing.
What settings are best for washing shoes?
Use a cold water, gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Detergent amount should be small and avoid bleach to protect fabrics and glue.
Use cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
How should I dry shoes after washing?
Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat. Do not use a dryer as heat can warp materials and weaken glues.
Let them air-dry; avoid the dryer.
Can I wash insoles with the shoes?
Insoles can be washed separately if they are not glued in place. Dry completely before reinserting.
Wash insoles separately if possible and dry fully.
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The Essentials
- Choose machine washing for compatible shoes only
- Always balance the load and protect with a bag
- Air-dry completely to prevent odor and damage
- Use mild detergent and cold water for longevity
- Inspect materials and adhesives before washing
