Should Shoes Even Go in the Washer?
First off, not all shoes are created equal—or washable. Leather, suede, and other delicate shoes are a big no-no for the washing machine. You’re just asking for cracked, warped, or ruined kicks if you throw those in there. Canvas, synthetic, and certain athletic shoes? Bring them on! To get solid advice, Persil confirms which shoes work best in machines.
Prep Steps: The Pre-Wash Courtship
Before the shoes dive into the aquatic whirlwind known as your washer, some prep magic is vital:
- Remove Those Laces and Insoles: Laces get a solo ride—in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase, please—and insoles are better off getting a gentle hand-cleaning to avoid sogginess and slow drying times. Whirlpool endorses this separation strategy right here.
- Kill Loose Dirt: Channel your inner detective and brush off or rinse mud and grime. This keeps the washing machine drum happy and extends your shoes’ lifespan.
Load Up Like a Pro
You’re not just throwing shoes into a washing cyborg; you’re protecting them. Place your shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to minimize wear and tear both on them and your machine. Toss in a few old towels too; think of them as the soft pillow for your shoes’ bumpy ride. These insider tips come to us from Boot Buddy’s expert advice.
Choose Your Cycle and Settings Wisely
Here’s where your washing machine becomes a delicate surgeon, not a demolition crew:
- Go Gentle: Select a gentle or delicate cycle because your shoes deserve to be treated kindly.
- Water Temperature: Cold water is your friend. Hot water might shrink or deform your sneakers.
- Detergent: Use a small amount of liquid detergent to avoid powder residue and harsh chemicals. No bleach—your shoes don’t need a chemistry lesson.
- Skip the Spin if Possible: If your washing machine allows skipping the spin cycle, do it! This prevents damage from excessive tumbling.
Maytag also mentions that using specialized shoe-wash cycles or options like “bulky items” can be a game changer if your washer offers them check out their tips here.
Post-Wash TLC: Drying and Aftercare
Don’t unleash your freshly washed shoes straight onto a radiator or in a tumble dryer—that’s like serving them a hot sauna without their consent. Instead, air drying is the superstar:
- Remove shoes ASAP after the cycle ends to prevent odor buildup.
- Stuff your shoes with dry cloth or paper towels to help shape retention and speed up drying.
- Place them in a well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight and heat.
Samsung’s guide warns about avoiding high heat drying, especially if you’re rocking sneakers with glued components read more here.
Extra Tips: Odor Control and Sneakier Cleaning Hacks
Got smelly shoes? Try adding ½ cup of baking soda to the wash to zap odors, endorsed by Arm & Hammer’s experts. Plus, laces and insoles can get the royal treatment by hand washing with a gentle detergent and then air drying separately.
Know When to Say No
Finally, if your shoes are vintage leather or fancy suede, do yourself (and your shoes) a solid by skipping the machine wash entirely. These materials need special love, like professional cleaning services or spot cleaning with appropriate products.
Useful Related Reads
If you’re curious about washing other household items safely, our guide on How to Wash Sheer Curtains in Washing Machine Without Damage is a treasure trove of tips. Also, find out how to wash a rug at home in a washing machine without causing chaos.
Items to Grab for the Job
- Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect shoes and machine
- Old towels for cushioning inside the wash
- Liquid laundry detergent (small amount)
- Baking soda for odor control (optional)
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Key Takeaways
- Not every shoe is washing machine-friendly; check materials before washing.
- Prepare your shoes by removing laces, insoles and pre-cleaning dirt.
- Use mesh bags and old towels to protect shoes and your washer.
- Choose gentle cycles, cold water, and mild detergents for best results.
- Air dry your shoes naturally to keep their shape and avoid damage.
Ready to get those kicks sparkling? Follow these steps, and your washing machine will thank you by keeping your shoes fresh without any laundry drama.