Can You Wash & Dry Shoes in Washing Machine - How to Guide

Clean and well-maintained shoes reveal much about an individual’s character, values, habits, and overall lifestyle. They can help create a good first impression. However, manually washing shoes requires a lot of elbow grease and can be time-consuming, potentially appearing as a daunting task. But fear not. What if we tell you that you can easily clean your shoes in the washing machine? Sounds good? With a few simple steps and certain precautions, you can get spotless shoes with little to no effort. In this article, we will tell you how to wash your shoes in a washing machine, suitable shoe types, preparation steps, and post-wash care.

Which Shoes Are Suitable for Machine Washing?

Not every kind of shoe is suitable for machine washing. The method of washing shoes depends on their construction and material. For instance, canvas and cloth shoes generally do well in a washing machine. Their flexible material lets water and soap get in, resulting in thorough and effective cleaning.

With athletic shoes and sneakers, there’s a bit more to consider. These shoes are made for tough activities, but not all of them are suited for machine washing. If your sneakers are in good shape and made of strong materials, they might handle a gentle wash. But if they are old and have been heavily used, they might get damaged in the machine.

Rubber and waterproof shoes, such as rain boots and sandals, are excellent contenders for machine washing. However, giving them a quick clean can help you avoid the hassle of getting your machine all clogged up.

Avoid washing shoes made up of materials like leather, suede, wool, velvet, etc., because they can get damaged easily. Similarly, do not wash your cleats in a machine, as they can damage the interior of the wash drum.

How to Wash and Dry Shoes in a Washing Machine? (Step-By-Step Guide)

Now that you know which shoes are suitable for a machine wash, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get it done:

Step 1: Check the Tags

Before washing your shoes in a machine, make sure you check the tags for the recommended cleaning procedure. These tags are usually under the shoe’s tongue. You can get specific instructions on how to clean the shoe on these tags.

Step 2: Remove the Laces and Insoles

Start by removing the laces and insoles of your shoes. They are susceptible to wear and tear, so removing them before washing prevents potential damage. Shoelaces can also become tangled in the washing machine, so it’s best to clean them by hand.

Step 3: Remove Any Debris

Use a soft brush or a cloth to wipe away the loose dirt or any debris that might damage the washing machine. Check the soles for dirt particles. This loose debris can potentially clog up your machine, resulting in costly repairs. The dirt particles also have abrasive qualities that can cause damage to your shoe. By doing this step, you can protect both your washing machine and your shoes.

Step 4: Load Them in the Machine

Now, load the shoes into your washing machine and close the lid. Make sure you select a gentle or delicate wash cycle and a mild detergent to prevent fading or deterioration. You can use a mesh garment bag to keep your shoes from banging against the wash drum. Avoid using hot water since it can cause colors to bleed or warp the materials.

Step 5: Dry Your Shoes After the Wash

The drying process requires equal attention after the wash. While air drying is a gentler option, you can machine dry some shoes in delicate settings. Placing dryer balls or towels inside the shoes can help absorb excess moisture.

Conclusion

A washing machine can be your reliable companion while cleaning your dirty shoes. Make sure you remember that not all shoes are meant for machine washing. This simple step-by-step guide lets you get clean and fresh shoes without compromising their quality.