Can You Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?
Yes — most canvas shoes, cotton sneakers and synthetic trainers can go in the washing machine safely. What you should never machine wash is leather, suede, shoes with glued-on soles that are already peeling, or anything with LED lights or delicate embellishments. For everyday sneakers and school shoes, the machine does a great job if you protect them properly.
What You Need
- A mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
- Mild liquid detergent (powder can stick in seams)
- 2–3 old towels to balance the load
- An old toothbrush for pre-cleaning
Step-by-Step
- Remove the laces and insoles — wash these separately by hand or in a small bag.
- Knock off loose mud and brush away caked dirt with the toothbrush.
- Place the shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase so they don’t bang around.
- Add the bag to the drum along with 2–3 towels to cushion the spin and balance the load.
- Select a cold, gentle or delicate cycle with a low spin speed.
- Use a small amount of liquid detergent — skip fabric softener.
- Run the cycle, then remove the shoes promptly.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t use hot water — it loosens glue and warps the shape.
- Don’t wash leather, suede or shoes with worn-out adhesive.
- Don’t use a high spin speed — it batters the shoes and the drum.
- Don’t tumble dry — heat destroys the structure.
Drying Tips
Stuff the shoes with paper towels or newspaper to hold their shape and absorb moisture. Air dry them away from direct sunlight and radiators, which can crack and yellow them. Drying usually takes 24–48 hours, so wash them when you don’t need them the next day.
Useful Reads & Where to Shop
Using the right wash cycle matters, so it helps to know whether a front-load or top-load machine suits you. Grit from shoes can clog things up, so it’s worth knowing how to clean the drum and filter afterwards.