Can You Wash Toms Shoes in the Washer

Can You Wash Toms Shoes in the Washer?

The short answer is yes, but only if they are made of canvas. Machine washing is the fastest way to clean classic cotton Toms, but it comes with risks. You should never put leather, suede, or wool Toms in the washing machine.

Washing the wrong material will ruin the shoes. The agitation can warp the shape, and water can stain suede permanently. If you have the standard canvas style, you can wash them, but you must follow a strict process to keep them intact.

Check the Material First

Before you do anything, look at the label inside the shoe. Toms makes several different styles, and the care instructions vary by fabric.

Here is a quick breakdown of what is safe and what is not:

• Canvas (Classics and Alpargatas): Safe to machine wash on a gentle cycle.
• Suede: Never machine wash. Water ruins the nap of the fabric.
• Leather: Never machine wash. It will crack and lose its shape.
• Wool (Burwood): Machine washing will cause shrinkage and felting.
• Glitter or Embellished: The glue will dissolve and the sparkle will fall off.

If you are unsure about the material, treat them like suede. Spot clean only. It is better to be safe than to ruin a pair of shoes.

How to Prep Your Toms for the Wash

Preparation is the most important step. If you throw dirty Toms straight into the machine, you will just grind the dirt deeper into the fabric.

Start by removing the laces and the insoles. The insoles are glued in, so pull them out gently. Wash the laces in a mesh bag or by hand in the sink.

Next, knock the shoes together outside to remove loose dirt and sand. Then, use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great) to scrub away any caked-on mud. Focus on the rubber toe cap and the seams where dirt builds up. Pre-treat any stubborn stains with a small amount of liquid laundry detergent. Rub it in with your fingers and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing.

The Machine Washing Process

Now that your shoes are prepped, you can load the machine. Never wash Toms with heavy items like jeans or towels. The friction will damage the canvas. Wash them with a few lightweight items like t-shirts or a small load of delicates. This balances the drum and cushions the shoes.

Here is the exact process to follow:

1. Place the Toms in a mesh laundry bag. If you don’t have one, use a pillowcase and tie the end closed. This protects the shoes from getting caught on the drum.
2. Use cold water only. Hot water will shrink the canvas and melt the glue that holds the soles on.
3. Set the machine to the delicate or gentle cycle. This uses less agitation and a slower spin speed.
4. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Softener leaves a residue that attracts more dirt.
5. Do not add other shoes to the load. Different shapes and sizes can cause uneven spinning.

When the cycle finishes, remove the shoes immediately. Leaving them sitting in the machine will cause them to smell musty.

How to Dry Them Without Ruining Them

The dryer is the enemy of Toms. High heat will shrink the canvas and melt the rubber soles. You must air dry them, but there is a trick to doing it right.

First, stuff the wet shoes with white paper towels or a dry, clean towel. This absorbs excess moisture and helps the shoes hold their shape while they dry. Do not use newspaper. The ink will bleed onto the damp canvas and ruin them.

Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A sunny windowsill might seem like a good idea, but it can cause the colors to fade. A room with a fan or an open window is ideal.

Change the paper towels every few hours. They will soak up the water quickly. It can take 24 to 48 hours for canvas shoes to dry completely. Do not wear them until they are fully dry. Wearing damp shoes will stretch them out and cause blisters.

What to Do If Your Toms Are Suede or Leather

If you own suede or leather Toms, you need a different approach. These materials are delicate and require hand cleaning.

For suede, use a suede brush or a suede eraser. Gently brush the surface in one direction to lift dirt and revive the nap. For scuff marks, rub the area with the eraser. If you have a liquid stain, dab it with a clean cloth and a tiny bit of white vinegar. Do not rub the stain; blot it.

For leather, use a damp cloth to wipe away surface dirt. Then, apply a small amount of leather conditioner or saddle soap with a soft cloth. This keeps the leather soft and prevents cracking. Let them air dry away from heat.

In both cases, you can spot clean stains with a mild soap and water solution, but never submerge the entire shoe.

Preventative Care for the Future

The best way to protect your Toms is to treat them before you wear them. A fabric protector spray, like Scotchgard, creates a barrier that repels water and stains. Spray them when they are clean and dry, and let them cure for 24 hours.

You should also rotate your shoes. Wearing the same pair every day does not give them time to air out. This leads to odor and faster wear. If you wear them without socks, sprinkle a little baking soda inside them overnight to absorb moisture and smell.

Finally, store them properly. Do not crush them in a closet. Use a shoe tree or stuff them with tissue paper to maintain their shape. A little care goes a long way in extending the life of your favorite pair.