Is It OK to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine? A Practical Guide

Why Washing Shoes in a Machine Is Sometimes OK

For many types of everyday footwear, a washing machine can be a convenient option to refresh sneakers and canvas shoes. The key is understanding when it’s appropriate and how to minimize risk to both the shoes and the machine. According to Best Washing Machine, many fabric uppers respond well to a gentle wash when prepped properly. Start by identifying shoe materials and care labels; if the label specifically says hand wash, dry clean, or do not machine wash, you should follow those instructions. If the label allows machine washing, proceed with caution. The aim is to clean without warping shapes, fading colors, detaching decorative elements, or weakening glue. A slow cycle with cold water, paired with a protective bag and an empty balance with towels or old garments, helps distribute weight evenly and reduces impact. Keep expectations reasonable: heavy boots with thick soles or leather uppers rarely survive machine washing intact.

Shoes That Generally Can Be Washed

Most fabric-based sneakers and running shoes with mesh or knit uppers respond well to machine cleaning. Canvas sneakers, gym shoes, and lightweight athletic footwear are common candidates, especially when they have rubber soles and minimal embellishments. Shoes with synthetic or synthetic leather uppers may also tolerate a gentle wash if care labels permit it. When washing, always use a mesh bag to protect laces and avoid snagging the drum. In some cases, removing insoles and laces reduces friction and helps the fabric dry evenly. If in doubt, test a small area or do a test wash on a pair you don’t mind risking. Best Washing Machine’s guidance emphasizes lightweight shoes and fabrics that can tolerate mild agitation.

Shoes You Should Never Machine-Wash

Leather dress shoes, suede, or any footwear with glued-on decorations, beading, or delicate embellishments should not go in the washing machine. Leather uppers can dry out, glue joints can loosen, and suede may swell unevenly or become stained. Shoes with metal eyelets, patent leather, or high-shine finishes are also risky because the agitation can cause cracking or loss of finish. If you wear specialty footwear like dress shoes or hiking boots, consider spot cleaning or using a dedicated cleaner. For foot health and odor control, you can periodically use a gentle wipe-down and air-drying instead of a full machine wash. Following care labels and manufacturer recommendations is crucial, as Best Washing Machine notes that some brands explicitly forbid machine washing certain models.

Prep Steps Before Washing

To protect both your shoes and your washing machine, take a few quick prep steps. Remove laces and insoles; laces can be washed separately, and insoles can be spot-cleaned or air-dried outside the machine. Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush before washing. Place each shoe in a separate mesh bag or pillowcase to reduce tangling and protect the drum. If you’re summoning a very dirty pair, pre-treat stains with a mild paste of baking soda and water or a dedicated sneaker cleaner. Tie the laces together so they don’t get misplaced, and consider washing a pair at a time rather than with heavy bulky items. Best Washing Machine recommends keeping the load balanced with a few towels or old garments to prevent banging during the cycle.

Washing Settings and Detergent

Choose cold water and a gentle cycle, and set the machine to a small or medium load. Use a mild detergent; avoid bleach or highly concentrated detergents, which can degrade color and fabrics. Do not use fabric softeners on shoes with mesh or foam components, since softeners can affect breathability and sole adhesion. If your machine has a 'mini load' or 'bulky items' option, use it judiciously to minimize agitation. After loading, run a quick rinse to remove detergent residue. If you own multiple pairs, wash them in separate cycles to prevent color transfer. Best Washing Machine’s guidance suggests avoiding hot water and high-heat cycles that can warp soles and degrade adhesives.

Drying Shoes Properly

Air-drying is essential. Remove excess water by pressing the shoes with a towel, then stuff them with paper towels or clean socks to help retain shape. Avoid placing shoes near direct heat sources like radiators or in a clothes dryer, which can warp materials and shrink fabrics. For athletic shoes with foam midsoles, a gentle air-dry overnight is often necessary. If you must speed up drying, use a fan in a dry, well-ventilated area and rotate the shoes after several hours to promote even drying. When dry, reinsert insoles and relace, ensuring that both shoes feel evenly dry to prevent odors. Best Washing Machine notes that drying method is a critical factor in preserving fit and comfort.

Special Cases: Odors, Mold, or Stains

For persistent odor or mildew, consider a pre-wash treatment with a rinse aid or a sneaker cleaner. A white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar, 4 parts water) can help neutralize smells in lightly soiled shoes; test a hidden area first. Mold or musty odor may require thorough drying and cleaning; if moisture lingers, dry the shoes away from sunlight to avoid fading. In all cases, avoid stacking wet shoes in a pile; spread them out to allow air to circulate. Remember to replace worn-out insoles and consider rotating footwear to prevent constant moisture. Best Washing Machine suggests that odor control is easier when you dry shoes promptly after cleaning.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

If your shoes are delicate or you prefer safer options, hand-wash or spot-clean using a soft brush with mild soap. A damp cloth can work for quick refreshers on fabrics and mesh. For leather or suede, use a specialized cleaner and a conditioning product after drying. Cleaning a small batch at a time will reduce risk and allow easier inspection of glue joints and sole edges. You can also consider professional cleaning services for expensive or sentimental shoes. The goal is to preserve structure and color while keeping soles clean. Best Washing Machine emphasizes exploring all options when machine washing isn’t ideal.

Real-World Tips and Pitfalls

Take it slow the first time you wash shoes in a machine to observe how the fabric reacts. If the color fades or the sole separates, stop and reassess. Always check the care label, and if in doubt, opt for traditional hand cleaning. Keeping your washing machine clean after washing shoes is important; run an empty rinse with a splash of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to remove residue. The most common mistakes are overloading the drum, using hot water, and washing leather or suede. Following steps consistently increases the chances of a good result. Test small changes before committing to a full load, and consult manufacturer guidelines when in doubt.

Maintenance to Extend Shoe Life After Washing

After washing, inspect the stitches, glue joints, and sole edges. If you notice any separation, consider repair or replacement rather than repeating machine cycles. Rotate footwear to avoid repeated moisture exposure and always thoroughly dry. Store shoes in a dry, ventilated area rather than in closed containers where odor can build up. Regular cleaning of your washing machine’s drum and detergent dispenser helps prevent color transfer and ensures better results for future loads. With proper care, washing machines can be a practical ally for sneaker refreshment, not a frequent offender.

AUTHORITY SOURCES

• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: https://www.cpsc.gov
• University of Illinois Extension: https://extension.illinois.edu
• Federal Trade Commission: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov