Can You Really Wash Football Shoes in a Washing Machine?
Let’s be real — your football cleats are probably the muddiest, grimiest things in your sports bag. You’ve rolled in the dirt, trampled through grass, and maybe even survived a few puddles on the field. Now they’re screaming for a wash. But can you just toss those bad boys in the washing machine and call it a day?
The short answer: Yes, but with caution. Football shoes, especially those made from synthetic materials, can go through a gentle laundry cycle. However, leather boots or cleats with metal parts? That’s a hard pass on machine washing. It’s a bit like feeding ice cream to an alligator — looks tempting but won’t end well.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Safely Wash Football Shoes in Washing Machine
1. Check the Manufacturer’s Care Label
Before you do anything wild, check the shoes’ care tag or manufacturer’s advice. If the shoes are leather or have glued parts vulnerable to heat or agitation, skip the machine wash. You don’t want to wreck your cleats or your washing machine!
2. Prep Your Shoes: Remove Laces and Insoles
Take out the shoelaces and any removable insoles. You don’t want these things tangling in the washer drum like a bad spaghetti bowl. Wash laces separately — toss them in a mesh bag or pillowcase for safe washing. Hand washing insoles is usually best to avoid sogginess and losing their shape.
3. Pre-Clean Off Excess Dirt
No one’s got time for a mud party in the washer. Tap the shoes together to knock off clods of dirt, or use an old toothbrush or soft brush to scrape away any stubborn bits. The cleaner your shoes before the wash, the better they’ll come out. Here’s a nifty tip: if you love a deep clean but want to avoid the machine, check out our guide on how to wash doormats in washing machine. Similar dirt challenge, similar solutions!
4. Protect Your Shoes (and Washing Machine!)
Put the shoes in a protective carrier like a mesh laundry bag or an old pillowcase tied shut. This prevents the shoes from banging around hard against the washer drum — which can damage both your shoes and the machine. Bonus: it keeps your washer drum clean from mud and debris.
5. Select the Right Washing Settings
- Use cold or lukewarm water (hot water is the enemy — it can weaken glue and warp materials).
- Choose the gentle or delicate cycle to keep the shoes from turning into a laundry disaster.
- Use a small amount of mild detergent — nothing too harsh or bleach-based.
- Don’t mix with heavy items like jeans or towels that could bump into your shoes too much.
6. Let the Washer Do the Work
Start the wash and try not to peer through the window like a hawk (it only makes the spin cycle more nerve-wracking). The delicate cycle will clean your shoes gently without sending them into a spin cycle frenzy.
7. Air Dry, No Dryer Allowed
Never, ever put your football shoes in the dryer. The heat can melt adhesives and ruin your boots. Instead, stuff the shoes with crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture and keep their shape. Then, leave them to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heaters. Patience here is your best friend.
Extra Tips & Tricks for Keeping Your Cleats Game-Ready
- Avoid machine washing leather or metal cleats: This is a quick route to cracked leather and rusty spikes.
- Synthetic cleats are your machine-friendly options: These generally handle a gentle machine wash well.
- For the really stubborn dirt: Consider a hand wash using warm soapy water and a soft brush to keep your cleats fresh without risking damage.
- Maintain with care: Regular cleanings prevent dirt build-up and extend your cleats’ lifespan.
- Consider footwear-specific detergents: Some brands make cleaners tailored for sports shoes — worth a try if you want pro-level care.
Recommended Gear to Make Your Life Easier
Want to take the guesswork out of washing football shoes? Grab a mesh laundry bag in India or a mesh laundry bag worldwide. These simple accessories protect your shoes and your machine, making cleaning easier and safer.
When Machine Washing Isn’t the Best Move
If your football shoes have leather uppers, delicate materials, or metal cleats, machine washing could be a death sentence. Instead, hand wash gently with water and mild soap, focusing on areas with stubborn dirt. Don’t forget to also let them air dry in a cool, shaded spot. For cleaning related challenges on other gear, you might like our post on how to wash fabric sofa covers in washing machine without shrinking — a totally different use case but with excellent tips on fabric care.
Final Thoughts: Fresh Cleats, Happy Feet
There you have it — a blueprint for washing your football shoes in a washing machine without having a laundry disaster. It’s safe and effective if done right. So go ahead, level up your cleats care routine, and step into the field with fresh kicks ready for action!