Yes, you can put shoes in the washing machine \u2014 but only certain kinds. Canvas sneakers, nylon running shoes, and rubber shoes handle a machine wash well. Leather, suede, and dress shoes will get ruined. So will shoes with glued soles or fancy details. The washer is a great tool if you use it right. This guide shows you exactly how.<\/p>\n
Before you toss anything in, check the material. This step saves you from ruining a favorite pair.<\/p>\n
Shoes that wash well:<\/strong><\/p>\n Shoes that never go in the washer:<\/strong><\/p>\n If you are unsure, check the care tag inside the shoe. Most brands print washing instructions there. When in doubt, hand wash instead. A sponge, mild soap, and warm water work for almost anything.<\/p>\n Preparation prevents damage. Do not skip these steps.<\/p>\n First, remove the laces and insoles. Laces tangle and catch on the drum. Insoles warp and lose their shape. Wash both separately in a mesh bag or by hand.<\/p>\n Second, knock the shoes together outside. This removes loose dirt and pebbles. Then scrub the soles with an old toothbrush under running water. Get the big chunks off before the machine does the fine work.<\/p>\n Third, put each shoe in a mesh laundry bag. If you do not have one, use a pillowcase with the end tied shut. This protects both your shoes and your washer drum from scratches.<\/p>\n Fourth, add towels to balance the load. Two or three bath towels cushion the shoes and reduce the banging. This also helps the machine spin evenly. Never wash shoes alone \u2014 they will thump and the washer may stop mid-cycle.<\/p>\n Machine settings matter more than you think. The wrong cycle can destroy a good pair of sneakers.<\/p>\n Use cold or cool water only. Hot water shrinks fabric and melts glue. Set the machine to the gentle or delicate cycle. This slows the agitation and protects the shoe structure.<\/p>\n Skip the spin cycle if your machine lets you choose. High-speed spinning twists shoes out of shape. If you cannot turn it off, run the gentle cycle and accept the slower spin.<\/p>\n For detergent, use a small amount of liquid detergent. Powder can leave white residue in fabric. Avoid bleach entirely \u2014 it yellows white shoes and weakens fibers. A tablespoon of oxygen-based cleaner like OxiClean works well for stubborn stains. Add it directly to the drum, not the dispenser.<\/p>\n Do not use fabric softener. It leaves a film that traps dirt and reduces breathability. Your shoes will smell worse over time.<\/p>\n Air drying is the only safe method. Never put shoes in the dryer. The heat shrinks them, warps the soles, and melts glue. Your shoes will come out smaller and ruined.<\/p>\n Instead, stuff each shoe with white paper towels or a clean dry towel. This absorbs moisture and holds the shape. Replace the stuffing when it gets wet. Let them dry in a warm, airy spot away from direct sunlight and radiators.<\/p>\n Drying takes 12 to 24 hours. Do not rush it. Wearing damp shoes causes blisters and odors. If you need them faster, use a shoe dryer \u2014 a device that blows room-temperature air inside. These work well and cost about $30.<\/p>\n Once dry, reinsert the insoles and laces. If the insoles feel damp, let them dry separately before putting them back.<\/p>\n Less often than you think. Machine washing is tough on shoes, even the ones that survive it. Each wash shortens their lifespan slightly.<\/p>\n Wash athletic shoes every two to four weeks if you wear them daily. Casual canvas sneakers only need a wash every few months. If your shoes just smell, try alternatives first.<\/p>\n Sprinkle baking soda inside and let it sit overnight. Shake it out in the morning. Or wipe the inside with a cloth dipped in a 50\/50 water and white vinegar solution. Let them air dry. These methods remove odor without the wear and tear of a machine wash.<\/p>\n Spot clean between washes. A damp cloth and a drop of dish soap handle most scuffs and dirt. This keeps your shoes looking fresh without the full cycle.<\/p>\n Sometimes machine washing makes odors worse. This happens when the shoes do not dry fully inside. Bacteria thrive in damp, dark places.<\/p>\n If this happens, dry them completely first. Then treat the inside with a sprinkle of baking soda. Leave it overnight and vacuum it out. For stubborn smells, freeze the shoes in a sealed bag for 24 hours. The cold kills odor-causing bacteria.<\/p>\n Going forward, rotate your shoes. Do not wear the same pair two days in a row. Give them 24 hours to air out between wears. This simple habit prevents most odor problems before they start.<\/p>\n Yes, most mesh and knit running shoes from major brands handle a gentle cold wash. Remove the insoles and laces first. Use a mesh bag. Air dry only \u2014 never put them in the dryer. Check the care tag first, because some models with carbon plates or foam midsoles should not be machine washed.<\/p>\n Cold water and gentle cycles rarely damage glue. Hot water and high-speed spins will. If your shoes are old or already peeling, skip the machine. Hand wash those with a damp cloth and mild soap instead.<\/p>\n Yes, white canvas and mesh shoes wash well. Use cold water, a small amount of liquid detergent, and add a scoop of oxygen bleach like OxiClean. Do not use chlorine bleach \u2014 it turns white fabric yellow. Air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing.<\/p>\n Add two or three bath towels to the load. This cushions the shoes and balances the drum. Also use a mesh bag for each shoe. If the banging continues, stop the machine and add more towels.\n<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Can You Put Shoes in the Washing Machine? The Short Answer Yes, you can put shoes in the washing machine \u2014 but only certain kinds….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"can put shoes in washing","rank_math_description":"Wondering can put shoes in washing machine? 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How to Prepare Your Shoes for the Washing Machine<\/h2>\n
The Right Wash Cycle and Detergent for Shoes<\/h2>\n
Drying Your Shoes After the Wash<\/h2>\n
How Often Should You Machine Wash Your Shoes?<\/h2>\n
What to Do When Shoes Come Out Smelling Worse<\/h2>\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n
Can I put Nike or Adidas running shoes in the washing machine?<\/h3>\n
Will washing shoes ruin the glue?<\/h3>\n
Can I wash white shoes in the washing machine?<\/h3>\n
How do I stop shoes from banging in the washing machine?<\/h3>\n