Is it OK to Put Sneakers in the Washing Machine? A Practical Guide
Can sneakers be machine washed safely? This step-by-step guide covers prep, settings, drying, and alternatives to protect materials and glue while keeping footwear fresh.
Is it ok to put sneakers in the washing machine? The short answer is yes for many sneakers, but only with proper prep and the right settings. Use a cold, gentle cycle, and place shoes in a mesh bag with laces removed. Air-dry thoroughly and avoid heat to prevent damage. Always check the care label and test on an old pair if you’re unsure.
Is it OK to Put Sneakers in the Washing Machine?
Is it ok to put sneakers in the washing machine? This common question pops up after muddy runs or gym sessions. The answer isn’t universal—materials, construction, and care labels all matter. Fabric, canvas, and knit sneakers usually tolerate a gentle wash, while leather, suede, or shoes with glued parts may not. According to Best Washing Machine, the safest strategy is to treat sneakers like textiles and prep them carefully. If you suspect the sole is loosely attached or the glue is already weak, skip the wash. You can revive odor and brightness with a careful approach, but the goal is to preserve structural integrity, not to gamble with expensive pairs. If you’re unsure, consider spot-cleaning or hand washing instead. One quick check you can perform is to ask: is it ok to put sneakers in the washing machine for your specific pair? The decision hinges on material, glue, and the shoe’s overall construction.
Types of Sneakers and How They React to Washing
Sneaker materials vary in their washing tolerance. Fabric and knit uppers often tolerate a cold, gentle wash if tucked into a mesh bag, while leather and suede can be damaged by moisture and heat and may develop stiffness or color changes. Canvas tends to respond well to washing, though it may shrink slightly if temperature isn’t controlled. Glue joints pose the most common risk of failure; shoes with visible adhesives, foam padding, or painted midsoles can loosen or peel after a wash. If you’re unsure about a pair, test a small, inconspicuous area first or opt for spot-cleaning. As you plan, keep in mind that the most durable results come from matching the washer cycle to the shoe’s material and using a protective bag.
Pre-Wash Prep: Laces, Insoles, and Protection
Before washing, remove laces and insoles to prevent tangling and odor buildup. Laces can snag their way around the drum, and insoles trap moisture. Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush and treat stubborn stains with a mild cleaner. Place sneakers in a mesh laundry bag to minimize friction and protect eyelets and embellishments. If washing multiple pairs, balance the load with towels or a few soft garments to keep the drum from banging. This prep minimizes damage and improves cleaning outcomes.
Washing Machine Settings and Load Tips
Set the washer to a cold water temperature and a gentle or delicate cycle. Use a mild liquid detergent, and avoid bleach unless the material is labeled as bleach-safe. Do not overload the drum; sneakers need space to move so they don’t scuff each other. Some washers are gentler without an agitator, but either type can work if the load is balanced. Consider a short pre-rinse to remove loose dirt, then run a full cycle. An extra rinse can help remove residual soap if you’re sensitive to detergent odor. Best Washing Machine analysis shows that cold, gentle cycles preserve color and fabric integrity better than hot washes.
Drying and Post-Wash Care
Air-dry sneakers away from direct heat or sunlight. The dryer can warp uppers or degrade glue, so avoid it unless the shoe is explicitly labeled dryer-safe. Stuff the shoes with paper towels or a clean cloth to help maintain their shape and speed drying. Remove insoles to dry separately if possible. When dry, reinsert insoles and relace the shoes. Drying times vary with material and humidity, but plan for a day or two of air-drying. Proper drying is essential to prevent odor and maintain fit.
Alternatives and Special Cases
Leather and suede sneakers often benefit from hand washing or spot-cleaning rather than a full machine wash. If you must machine wash, use a mesh bag, cold water, and a delicate cycle with minimal detergent. For very dirty soles, a soft brush after washing can remove caked grime without roughing up the upper. If footwear uses removable orthotics or has unusual decorations, consult the manufacturer’s instructions before washing. In some cases, professional cleaning or replacement parts may be the best option to preserve appearance and longevity.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix
Common mistakes include washing on hot water, using bleach, or overloading the machine. Hot water can warp fabrics and weaken glue; bleach can discolor and degrade materials. Overloading reduces cleaning effectiveness and increases wear. Skipping a mesh bag invites damage to eyelets, laces, and the drum. Drying in a dryer is a frequent bad idea for sneakers, especially if glue or foam is involved. Washing leather, suede, or material with glued parts at all can be risky unless you follow gentle, spot-cleaning methods. If you notice distortion or odor, pause and re-evaluate your approach before wearing again.
Quick Maintenance to Extend Sneaker Life
Develop a lightweight maintenance routine to keep sneakers looking fresh between full washes. After each wear, brush off dirt and wipe down the exterior. Spot-clean stains as soon as you notice them, and store pairs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Rotate between several pairs to spread wear evenly and protect the life of each pair’s fabric and glue. Replace insoles and laces as needed to maintain comfort. A simple routine reduces the need for frequent deep washes and keeps sneakers performing well longer.
Tools & Materials
- Washer (front-loading preferred)(Ensure it’s in good condition and avoid aggressive agitators if possible.)
- Mesh laundry bags(Place each sneaker in its own bag to prevent tangling and protect eyelets.)
- Mild liquid detergent(Avoid concentrated or scented products that can leave residues.)
- Laces(Remove and wash separately; replace if frayed.)
- Insoles(Remove and dry separately; clean if washable.)
- Soft brush(Dip in mild cleaner for pre-cleaning or stain lift.)
- Old towels or microfiber cloth(Use to balance the load and cushion during wash.)
- Sneaker-safe cleaner (optional)(For stubborn stains on difficult materials.)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Remove laces and insoles
Take out laces and insoles to prevent tangling and to allow full exposure of the upper and insole surfaces for cleaning. This also helps the laces and insoles dry separately, reducing odor transfer.
Tip: Laces clean better in a separate wash or by hand; air-dry fully before re-lacing. - 2
Brush off loose dirt
Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris from the outsole and upper surface. This reduces dirt that would otherwise grind into fibers during washing.
Tip: Dry brushing minimizes stain transfer and protects delicate materials. - 3
Pre-treat stains
Apply a small amount of mild sneaker cleaner or detergent to stains, then gently scrub with a soft brush. Let sit for a few minutes before washing.
Tip: Avoid harsh solvents on delicate fabrics to prevent color fading. - 4
Bag and balance
Place each sneaker in a mesh bag and balance the load with towels or soft garments to prevent banging and uneven rotation.
Tip: Balanced loads reduce wear on the drum and improve cleaning efficiency. - 5
Set wash and detergent
Load with cold water on a delicate cycle and add a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid bleach unless materials explicitly allow it.
Tip: Cold water preserves color and prevents shrinkage. - 6
Run the wash
Start the full cycle and let the machine do the work. If dirt is heavy, consider a second gentle rinse.
Tip: A second rinse can prevent detergent residue on fabric. - 7
Air-dry the sneakers
Remove from the bag and reshape while damp, then air-dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not use the dryer.
Tip: Stuff with paper towels or soft fabric to help maintain shape while drying. - 8
Reassemble and recheck
Once dry, reinsert insoles and relace the sneakers. Inspect for odor and ensure all components are intact.
Tip: If odor persists, consider a light deodorizing spray designed for footwear. - 9
Store properly
Store sneakers in a ventilated area to prevent moisture buildup and odors. Rotate with other pairs to reduce wear on any single pair.
Tip: Avoid crowded closets; good airflow extends life.
FAQ
Can all sneakers be washed in the washing machine?
No. Leather, suede, or sneakers with glued components may not withstand machine washing. Check the care label and consider spot-cleaning for delicate materials.
Not every sneaker is machine-washable. Check the material and labels, and opt for spot-cleaning if in doubt.
Will washing sneakers in the machine damage the glue?
Washing can loosen some glues, especially on older or cheaper sneakers. Use a gentle cycle and avoid soaking; if you see peeling, stop and switch to spot-cleaning.
The glue can come loose with machine washing, so go gentle and watch for peeling.
Should I remove insoles before washing?
Yes. Remove insoles to prevent odor and ensure they dry thoroughly. Wash insoles separately if possible.
Yes, take them out and let them dry separately.
How long does it take to dry sneakers after washing?
Air dry typically 24 to 48 hours depending on material and humidity. Avoid direct heat and use stuffing to maintain shape.
Usually a day or two; air-drying is essential.
Can I use bleach on white sneakers?
Avoid chlorine bleach on most sneakers; use a mild detergent or a non-chlorine option if the material allows. Bleach can damage colors and materials.
Bleach can ruin sneakers, especially colored fabrics. Use gentler cleaners.
Is hand washing better than machine washing for sneakers?
Hand washing is gentler and better for delicate materials. Machine washing is convenient for regular cleaning when done carefully.
Hand washing is often gentler, but machine washing can work if you’re careful.
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The Essentials
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle
- Protect sneakers with mesh bags
- Air dry thoroughly to prevent damage
- Remove laces/insoles before washing
- Balance loads to prevent drum damage
