How to Clean New Balance Suede Shoes in Washing Machine

Think Twice Before Machine Washing Your New Balance Suede Shoes

Let’s be real, New Balance suede sneakers look great but they’re about as delicate as your favorite grandma’s antique vase. When dirt shows up uninvited, your first instinct might be: “Washing machine, save me!” But hold on; putting those suede kicks in the spin cycle is like inviting a bull to a china shop. Suede and washing machines don’t mix well, and here’s the why and how behind that.

Manufacturer’s Word: Steer Clear of the Washer

New Balance, the boss when it comes to your sneakers, explicitly advises against machine washing or drying shoes made from suede or leather. Their verdict? Suede doesn’t like prolonged soaking or heat exposure. Tossing your shoes in the washer risks shrinking, color bleeding, and warping — basically turning your stylish sneaks into a sad, floppy mess.

Washing machines agitate like a wild party, which can separate soles from uppers or destroy the delicate nap of suede. So, if you value your shoes (and warranty), it’s best not to put this advice to the test.

The Risks of Washing Suede in a Machine

• Material Damage: Suede can warp, stiffen, or shrink due to water saturation and agitation.
• Color Loss: Darkening or staining is common after too much moisture, ruining that premium look.
• Structural Damage: Washing machines can mess with glue or stitching, causing sole separation or shoe deformation.

A YouTube experiment actually tested putting New Balance suede shoes in a washing machine, and spoiler alert: the results were a mixed bag of damage and disappointment.

So, What Do Some People Do Anyway?

Despite repeated warnings, sneakerheads and desperate owners sometimes throw caution to the wind and dunk their suede shoes into the washing machine. Sure, surface dirt can come off, but the aftermath involves:

• Wet, misshapen shoes that never quite feel the same.
• Hours of air drying without any heat, which can take days.
• Using special suede brushes and erasers to revive the nap.
• Potentially voided warranties and permanent material damage.

Not exactly the easiest or safest route if you treasure your kicks.

Best Way to Clean Your New Balance Suede Shoes: Gentle Love, No Machines

The pro tip? Treat your suede with tender loving care. Here’s the inside scoop on gentle suede cleaning that keeps your shoes looking sharp and intact:

Step 1: Dry Brush Off Loose Dirt

Start with a soft-bristle brush or a dedicated suede brush. Gently sweep away dirt, dust, and debris without scrubbing like you’re trying to erase decades of history. An old toothbrush can also double as a trusty dirt remover.

Step 2: Spot Clean With Care

Dab lightly using a cloth moistened with a mix of water and a mild dye-free detergent. Avoid soaking your suede or overworking any stains. Pat the area dry with a clean towel to soak up excess moisture. Suede hates being saturated, so less is more.

Step 3: Specialty Suede Cleaner

For the tougher, stubborn stains, grab a specialty suede cleaner — these are designed specifically to treat suede’s fuzzy texture without damage. Follow the instructions closely for best results.

Step 4: Air Dry Like a Gentleman

Let your shoes air dry naturally. No direct sunlight, no heat sources, and definitely no tumble drying. It might test your patience but trust me, heat ruins suede faster than a bad haircut ruins your weekend.

Step 5: Restore the Nap

Once dry, gently brush the suede to revive its signature nap and keep those New Balance shoes looking fresh and luxurious.

Additional Tips That Won’t Ruin Your Suede

• Always use a suede protector spray after cleaning to help repel dirt and moisture.
• Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from dust.
• Rotate your shoe wear to reduce excessive wear and tear.
• Check out related washing machine cleaning tips like How to Clean My LG Washing Machine Like a Pro if you want your appliance pristine while you care for your shoes elsewhere.

Summary: The Quick-and-Dirty Table

Final Thoughts

If your New Balance suede shoes mean more to you than a quick clean, don’t gamble with your washing machine. Stick to gentle hand cleaning methods to keep them looking fresh and feeling comfy for many struts to come. For specialty suede care tools and cleaners, you can check these trusted options in India and Global markets.

Remember, some things are better left outside the spin cycle. Your suede shoes will thank you—and so will your style game.