Ready to Wash Your Shoes in a Fully Automatic Washing Machine?
Let’s be real: we all would rather toss our grimy shoes into the washing machine than spend hours scrubbing them down like it’s a Renaissance painting. But wait! Before you turn that dial to “full-speed overkill,” take a chill pill and read on. You don’t want to end up with shredded sneakers or (cue dramatic pause) a bruised washing machine drum. This guide is your ticket to sneaker sparkle without the oops.
Step 1: Sherlock Holmes Your Shoes — Confirm They’re Machine-Washable
Not all shoes are created equal. Suede, leather, and other delicate materials tend to sulk and shrivel in the wash. Your first job is to check the care label inside the shoe or manufacturer’s website for clues. Canvas, fabric, and many mesh shoes are usually game for the spin cycle. When in doubt, hand wash or consult a pro.
Step 2: Deconstruct Your Shoes — Take Out Those Laces and Insoles
Remove the laces and insoles to give them their own VIP treatment. Laces can be washed separately, ideally in a mesh garment bag to keep them from tangling or disappearing into the abyss (aka the machine’s crevices). Insoles? Best hand washed — soaking them too long in the machine can make them soggy and stinky.
Pro Tip: Freshen Insoles with Baking Soda Overnight
Sprinkle a little baking soda on insoles and let it hang out overnight to banish odors. That’s a win-win for both your shoes and your nostrils.
Step 3: Pre-Clean — Brush Off Dirt and Spot Clean
Give your shoes a pre-show with a soft brush to sweep off dirt, mud, and any animal tracks (without having to call Sherlock again). For stubborn stains, a melamine sponge works wonders on the soles.
Step 4: Bag Them Up — Mesh Laundry Bag or Pillowcase?
Tuck your shoes into a mesh laundry bag or a sturdy pillowcase tied closed. This petite fortress shields your shoes and washing machine drum from rubbing and banging, which can cause damage or noise drama. Consider this comprehensive guide on washing shoes by machine for more insights.
Step 5: Detergent Time — Choose Wisely
Liquid detergents are your friends here. Avoid bleach and powder detergents that love to hide in shoe grooves and cause unpleasant surprises. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent to keep things fresh but gentle.
Step 6: Select the Gentle Cycle and Use Cold Water
Your washing machine’s delicate or gentle cycle is the VIP lounge for your shoes. Use cold water — hot water tends to warp and wreck shoe materials. Opt for low or no spin settings if your machine offers those options. This keeps shoes intact and drum drama minimal.
Step 7: Balance the Load — Toss in Some Old Towels
If you’re feeling fancy — or just want to protect your machine — throw a few old towels in there with your shoes. The towels act like bouncers, cushioning your shoes and balancing the load so your machine doesn’t dance like it’s got ants in its drum.
Step 8: Say No to the Dryer — Air Dry Only
Here’s a golden rule: never, ever, ever toss your shoes in the dryer. The heat messes with shoe shape, glue, and material. Let your shoes air dry in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sun to avoid color fading or warping.
Bonus Tips and Tricks
- Use vinyl gloves or a cloth when handling wet shoes to reduce staining of your hands.
- Test cleaning products on a small hidden spot first if you’re trying anything new.
- Put a small cloth in the bag with your shoes to absorb excess moisture.
- For extra odor busting, add a gentle detergent booster designed for shoes.
More Shoe Washing Wisdom
If you want to dive deeper on shoe washing using specific brand machines, check out how to wash shoes in Electrolux washing machines or review various tips in this complete guide on washing shoes by machine.
Now you’re all set to face those muddy adventures again with a fresh pair of kicks — all with minimal fuss and zero drum bruising. Go on, press that start button with confidence!
Where to Get Your Shoe Washing Essentials
To make shoe washing as smooth as your fresh kicks, consider grabbing some handy laundry accessories from reliable sources: