How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine: Safe, Effective Steps
Learn how to wash shoes in a washing machine safely with a step-by-step method, prep, detergent guidance, cycle settings, and air-drying to refresh sneakers and gym shoes.
You can safely wash many fabric- and mesh-based shoes in a washing machine by following a gentle cycle, cold water, and a mesh bag, plus pre-cleaning dirt and laces. Use a small amount of mild detergent and balance with towels, then air-dry away from heat. This method works for sneakers, trainers, and gym shoes.
Why Washing Shoes in a Washing Machine Is Possible with the Right Prep
Washing shoes in a washing machine can be safe and effective when you prepare properly and choose appropriate footwear. Fabric, mesh, and some rubber-soled sneakers respond well to gentle washing, while leather, suede, and delicate uppers require special care. According to Best Washing Machine analysis, the key to avoiding damage is using cold water, a gentle cycle, and protective handling such as a mesh bag and towels. Begin by removing dirt, debris, and loose laces, then inspect for exposed seams or stains that might loosen during agitation. If you’re unsure about a specific pair, test a small, hidden area first or consult the manufacturer’s care instructions. With the right prep, most everyday sneakers, running shoes, and gym footwear can be refreshed without a trip to the cleaners. This is also a practical example of how to wash shoes on washing machine safely for busy households.
What Shoes Can Be Washed and What to Avoid
Not every shoe is suitable for machine washing. Generally, fabric, canvas, mesh, and some rubber sneakers tolerate a gentle wash. Shoes with leather, suede, patent leather, or glued accents may warp, crack, or separate when tumbled. Rubber soles and molded insoles also respond differently; removable insoles are easier to dry separately. Colorfastness matters; if colors could bleed, wash in a dedicated load or use color catchers. If in doubt, err on the side of hand washing. If you’re unsure about a specific material, consult the shoe’s care label or manufacturer instructions.
Pre-Wash Prep: Quick Checklist
Before loading, collect materials and prepare the shoes. Remove laces and insoles, brush off loose dirt, and check for any detached parts. If there are stubborn stains, treat them with a small amount of mild detergent diluted in water. Try to remove odors with a baking soda paste or spray a light deodorizer after washing. Take photos as a reference for replacement parts if needed. This ensures you’re ready to proceed with how to wash shoes on washing machine in a controlled way.
Detergent and Load Setup: Choosing the Right Detergent and Balance
Use mild liquid detergent; avoid harsh bleach that can damage colors. Use a small amount; over-sudsing can cling to fabrics and may leave residue. Place towels or old rags in the drum to balance the load and cushion the shoes, preventing loud banging. If you are washing multiple pairs, consider washing in separate loads to maintain cleanliness and protect colors. Selecting the right detergent is part of learning how to wash shoes on washing machine without compromising color or fabric.
Loading Your Shoes Safely: Bags, Hammock, and Placement
Put each pair in a separate mesh wash bag or pillowcase; tie laces loosely and place inside to minimize tangling. Add a couple of old towels to balance weight and reduce impact. Place the bags flat on the drum or on the agitator area, ensuring they don’t get stuck in drain holes. Close the lid securely before starting. If your machine lacks a bag option, rotate shoes with towels on opposite sides for cushioning. This is a core step in learning how to wash shoes on washing machine with protection.
Cycle Settings, Timing, and Extra Tips
Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water and a slow spin. If your machine has a setting labeled “hands wash” or “delicate”, use that. Run a short cycle first to test, then consider a longer cycle on light soil. After washing, remove items promptly to prevent mildew. If you notice excessive suds, pause and run a rinse cycle with less detergent. For best results, think through the exact settings you’d use when figuring out how to wash shoes on washing machine safely.
Drying Shoes Properly: Air Dry to Prevent Damage
Air drying is essential. Remove bags and insoles; stuff sneakers with paper towels to maintain shape and absorb moisture. Place shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources or sunlight. Avoid using a clothes dryer, which can warp soles and shrink fabrics. Ensure shoes are completely dry before re-wearing to prevent odor buildup. This part of the process completes the safe approach to how to wash shoes on washing machine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overloading the machine, using hot water, or washing leather, suede, or glue-attached parts. Don’t wash bright color sneakers with dark textiles in the same load; color bleed can occur. Do not dry shoes in a dryer or near direct heat. Never run cycles without a load or with damaged parts that could break during agitation. These pitfalls are common but easy to avoid when you follow the proper steps for how to wash shoes on washing machine safely.
Post-Wash Care: Odor Control, Freshening, and Maintenance
Once dry, re-lace and reinsert insoles as needed. Clean the mesh bag afterward and store shoes in a dry place. For ongoing odor control, sprinkle baking soda inside shoes between wears and let them air out. Rotate between pairs to reduce wear and extend lifespan. Regular upkeep will help you keep footwear fresh with minimal effort while learning the best practices for how to wash shoes on washing machine.
Tools & Materials
- Mesh washing bags(One per shoe pair to prevent tangling)
- Mild liquid detergent(Color-safe; avoid bleach)
- Old towels(Balance load and cushion shoes)
- Soft brush or old toothbrush(Pre-clean dirt and stains)
- Baking soda (optional)(Odor control between wears)
Steps
Estimated time: 45-60 minutes
- 1
Inspect and prep shoes
Check materials and adhesives; remove laces and insoles. Brush off loose dirt and inspect for damage that could worsen in a machine. This helps you tailor care to each pair.
Tip: If unsure about a material, test a hidden area before washing. - 2
Remove laces and insoles
Take out laces and insoles to ensure all parts get clean and dry evenly. Laces can go in a mesh bag.
Tip: If laces are very dirty, wash them separately in a small laundry bag. - 3
Pre-treat stains
Dab a small amount of mild detergent on stains or use a gentle stain remover. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
Tip: Avoid harsh scrubbing that can damage fabric fibers. - 4
Load with towels
Place shoes in mesh bags and add a couple of towels to balance the drum. This cushions movement and reduces impact.
Tip: Ensure the drum isn’t overloaded by keeping a balanced layout. - 5
Choose cycle and water
Select a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water and a slow spin. Use a small amount of detergent and avoid hot water for most fabrics.
Tip: Test a short cycle first to verify balance and cleanliness. - 6
Dry and reshape
Remove shoes promptly after washing and air-dry away from direct heat. Stuff with paper towels to keep shape, then reinsert insoles when dry.
Tip: Never use a clothes dryer on sneakers.
FAQ
Can I wash leather shoes in a washing machine?
Leather shoes are risky in a washing machine; avoid if possible. If you must, test a small area and use a protective bag with cold water on a gentle cycle.
Leather in a washer can be risky; test a small area first and consider hand cleaning when possible.
Should I put shoes in a laundry bag?
Yes. A mesh laundry bag protects the shoes and prevents tangling or damage to the drum.
Put shoes in a mesh bag to protect them and your washer.
How do I prevent color transfer between shoes and fabrics?
Wash with cold water, keep colors with similar hues, and use color-catching sheets if available.
Wash on cold and with similar colors to prevent color transfer.
Can I dry shoes in a dryer?
No. Dryers can warp soles and shrink fabrics; air-dry at room temperature.
Avoid the dryer; air-dry instead to prevent damage.
How long does it take to dry shoes after washing?
Most shoes take 12-24 hours to dry thoroughly, depending on material and airflow.
Expect 12 to 24 hours for complete drying.
What about insoles and laces?
Wash laces separately or in a bag, and air-dry insoles completely before reusing.
Wash laces separately and let insoles dry fully.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Use cold water and gentle cycles
- Protect shoes with mesh bags and towels
- Air-dry completely to prevent damage
- Avoid washing leather or suede in a machine
