Can We Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?
Keeping shoes clean is important, especially when they are used daily. Many people think about washing shoes in a washing machine to save time and effort. But the truth is, not all shoes are made for machine washing. Whether you can wash shoes in a washing machine completely depends on the material of the shoes and how carefully you wash them.
Check the Shoe Material First
Before putting shoes in a washing machine, always check the inside label or product details. This label usually tells whether the shoes are washable or not.
As a general rule, shoes made from leather, suede, or animal-based materials should never be washed in a washing machine. These materials absorb water easily and get damaged. Washing them can cause cracking, hardening, or loss of shape.
Shoes That Can Be Washed in a Washing Machine
- Sneakers
- Tennis shoes
- Jogging or running shoes
- Fabric slippers
A simple way to judge is by thinking about rainy days. If your shoes get wet in the rain and dry normally without becoming stiff, they can usually handle machine washing.
How to Wash Shoes Safely in a Washing Machine
Remove Insoles and Laces
Always take out the insoles and laces before washing. Insoles can be washed separately or replaced if they are old. Laces can be washed by hand or in the machine.
Clean Dirt Before Washing
Rinse off loose mud and dust. Use an old toothbrush and mild dishwashing liquid to scrub the soles. This helps remove heavy dirt before machine washing.
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Use a Pillowcase or Laundry Bag
Place the shoes inside a pillowcase or laundry bag. This protects both the shoes and the washing machine from damage.
Add Towels
Wash shoes along with a few towels. The towels reduce noise and help clean the shoes better by creating gentle friction.
Choose the Right Wash Settings
- Use a normal or gentle cycle
- Use cold or warm water, not hot
- Use enough detergent to remove odor
- For white shoes, a small amount of bleach may be used if needed
- Avoid washing too many shoes at once. One or two pairs per wash is ideal.
Proper Way to Dry Shoes
- Do not use a dryer
- Dryer heat can shrink shoes and weaken glue
- Let shoes air dry naturally
- Place them upside down
- Put paper inside the toe area to maintain shape
- Dry in sunlight or near an air vent
Extra Tips for Better Shoe Care
- Do not wash shoes too frequently
- Very smelly shoes may need two wash cycles
- Some shoes may need minor re-gluing inside after washing
- Replacing old insoles improves comfort and freshness
- Always wash only washable shoes in a machine
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can sneakers be washed in a washing machine?
Yes, most cloth or synthetic sneakers can be washed carefully using a gentle cycle and air drying.
Is it safe to wash leather shoes in a washing machine?
No. Leather shoes should never be machine washed as water damages leather permanently.
Can I use hot water to wash shoes?
No. Hot water can damage fabric and glue. Always use cold or warm water.
Can shoes be dried in a dryer?
No. Dryer heat can shrink shoes and ruin their shape. Air drying is the best option.
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Should shoe laces be removed before washing?
Yes. Removing laces allows better cleaning and prevents tangling.
Washing shoes in a washing machine is safe only when done correctly and with the right type of shoes. Cloth and synthetic shoes can be washed carefully, while leather and suede shoes should always be cleaned by other methods. By following the proper steps, you can keep your shoes clean, fresh, and in good condition for a long time.
