Can U Wash Shoes in the Washer: A Complete Guide for Safe Cleaning and Drying

You can wash shoes in the washer safely if you choose the right shoes and follow proper preparation and washing steps. Avoid high heat and strong cycles to prevent damage to most sneakers and casual shoes.

This advice suits sneaker owners and casual shoe wearers looking to clean their shoes effectively without ruining them. It covers what shoes work well in washers and how to protect your footwear during washing and drying.

Can You Wash Shoes in the Washer Without Damaging Them?

Washing shoes in a washing machine can be safe if you follow specific guidelines designed to protect both the shoes and the appliance. Most fabric sneakers made of canvas, nylon, cotton, or polyester generally tolerate a gentle machine wash without damage. However, using the wrong settings or ignoring manufacturer care instructions can shrink or deform shoes and potentially harm your washer.

Safety depends on several factors. First, always check your shoes’ care label and the washing machine’s manual to ensure machine washing is permitted. Shoes with loose parts or damage should be repaired beforehand to avoid further deterioration. Placing shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase can help prevent the shoes from banging directly against the tub or agitator, reducing the risk of damage to both the shoes and the machine.

A cold water wash on a delicate cycle is best for shoes in the washer. Hot water or heavy cycles may cause shrinkage or weaken adhesives in the shoe construction. The typical wash duration is around 45 minutes to one hour. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach, which can discolor fabrics or damage glue. It’s best not to overload the washing machine, so wash shoes with towels or other soft items that cushion impacts and balance the load.

Some shoes, like leather or suede sneakers, should never go in the washing machine, as water and agitation can ruin their materials and finish. Similarly, shoes with rubber, vinyl, or unique embellishments may not stand up well to machine washing. Using the washer for these can cause permanent damage to the shoe and increase wear on your washing machine’s components.

Washing shoes in the machine is unlikely to damage the appliance if you follow these precautions. Mesh bags and gentle cycles reduce shock and vibration to internal parts. Still, avoid putting heavy or hard-soled shoes with large metal pieces or rigid structures in the washer. When in doubt, hand cleaning or spot treatment is a safer option.

In summary, machine washing is a handy method for fabric sneakers designed for it, using cold water, delicate cycles, and protective laundry bags. Always confirm your shoes’ compatibility, prepare them properly, and use the washer settings recommended for delicate textiles. Taking these steps helps avoid damage to your shoes and your washing machine while allowing you to clean your shoes effectively.

Which Shoes Are Safe to Wash in a Washing Machine?

To decide if your shoes are safe to wash in a machine, start by identifying the materials. Canvas, mesh, and synthetic fabrics generally handle the machine’s spinning and water well. That’s why many tennis shoes and sneakers fall into the machine-washable category. However, delicate materials and certain constructions can break down under these conditions.

Some running shoes are machine washable, but only when the manufacturer explicitly states so on the care label. These shoes are designed with fabrics and adhesives that withstand the heat and agitation. Otherwise, running shoes often contain glue, foam, and mesh that can degrade over time when exposed to washing machines, even on gentle cycles.

Always check your shoe’s care label before washing. It tells you precisely if machine washing is safe and may provide temperature or cycle recommendations. If there isn’t a label, assume your shoes require hand cleaning or a gentler method.

Checking the label is the easiest and safest way to know if your shoes can go in the washer. It shows if the materials and adhesives can handle water, spinning, and temperatures that can easily reach 130°F on hot cycles. When in doubt, opt for hand washing to protect your shoes’ lifespan.

Always remove laces and place shoes in a laundry bag before machine washing to reduce wear from spinning and banging.

How to Prepare Your Shoes for Machine Washing

Prepare your shoes carefully before placing them in the washing machine to avoid damage and get the best cleaning results. Remove shoelaces and insoles to clean them separately, brush off loose dirt, and protect the shoes using a mesh laundry bag. These steps prevent tangling, protect the washing machine drum, and keep shoes in good condition.

Removing and Washing Shoelaces

Always take shoelaces out of your shoes before washing. Cleaning laces separately helps them get cleaner and prevents them from tangling with the shoes or damaging the machine. You can hand wash laces or put them inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to wash in the machine.

For hand washing, soak laces in warm water mixed with a mild detergent for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Machine washing inside a mesh bag protects them while allowing thorough cleaning.

Cleaning and Handling Insoles

Remove insoles before machine washing. Most insoles should be hand washed to maintain their shape and cushioning. Use warm water and a mild detergent to gently scrub insoles with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse and air dry completely on a flat surface to avoid warping.

Some insoles can be washed in a mesh laundry bag in the machine, but check the manufacturer’s instructions first to prevent damage. Dry insoles thoroughly before reinserting them to avoid mold or odors.

Using a Mesh Laundry Bag Correctly

Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them during the wash cycle. The bag keeps shoes, laces, and insoles contained, reducing the risk of damage or losing small parts. If you don’t have a mesh bag, use a pillowcase as a substitute.

Put laces and insoles in a separate mesh bag or pillowcase. Secure the bags with ties or zippers to prevent items from escaping. This keeps all parts protected and avoids tangling in the washing machine.

Pre-Treating Stains and Dirt on Shoes

Before washing, brush off loose dirt, mud, grass, or debris using a soft brush or cloth. This prevents clogging the washer and allows the detergent to work better on stains. Treat stubborn stains by applying a small amount of liquid detergent or stain remover directly and gently rubbing it in.

Let the pre-treatment sit for 10 to 15 minutes before placing shoes in the mesh bag and washing. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage shoe materials or colors.

1. Remove shoelaces and place them in a mesh laundry bag or soak for hand washing with mild detergent.
2. Take out insoles and hand wash them gently, then air dry completely.
3. Brush off loose dirt, mud, or debris from the shoes using a soft brush or cloth.
4. Apply a small amount of detergent or stain remover on visible stains and let sit for 10, 15 minutes.
5. Place the shoes inside a mesh laundry bag to protect them during washing.
6. Put laces and insoles in separate mesh bags or pillowcases to avoid tangling.
7. Secure all bags with ties or zippers before putting them in the washing machine.

Washing Settings and Detergents for Cleaning Shoes

Use a gentle or delicate wash cycle with cold water and a slow or no-spin option to clean shoes safely in a washing machine. Liquid detergent or laundry pods work best because they dissolve fully, preventing residue buildup in your shoes. Avoid fabric softeners and disinfectants unless you strictly follow product guidelines, as they may harm the materials or affect the cleaning outcome.

Choosing the Best Wash Cycle and Water Temperature

Select the delicate or gentle wash cycle on your machine to protect the shape and material of your shoes. This cycle uses slower agitation and a milder spin, reducing wear and tear during cleaning. Set the water temperature to cold, approximately 60°F (16°C), since hot water can weaken adhesives and cause colors to fade. Avoid using the normal or heavy cycles, as their aggressive motion could damage the shoes or your washer’s drum.

Opting for a slow or no-spin option prevents your shoes from bouncing excessively inside the drum. This cutback lessens the risk of cracking soles, loosening stitching, or rubbing shoes against the washer walls too forcefully. Running a cold water, gentle cycle with slow spinning is typically enough to remove usual dirt and grime without sacrificing shoe integrity.

Best Detergent Types for Washing Shoes

Liquid detergent and laundry pods are your best choices for washing shoes because they dissolve completely during the wash cycle. This thorough dissolution ensures detergent doesn’t remain trapped in fabric or seams, avoiding stiff or discolored spots after drying. Powdered detergents risk clumping and sticking inside shoes, especially in low temperatures, reducing cleaning effectiveness and possibly leaving residue.

Add about 1 to 2 tablespoons of liquid detergent or one pod for each load containing shoes. Make sure to measure doses carefully to avoid excessive sudsing, which can interfere with rinsing. Combining your shoes with a few towels or sheets helps distribute detergent evenly and strengthens the cleaning action through the added friction.

Why to Avoid Fabric Softeners and Disinfectants

Fabric softeners can reduce the breathability of sneaker materials and leave behind a greasy coating, which might attract more dirt after washing. You should skip fabric softeners altogether for shoe loads, as they don’t improve shoe cleanliness or comfort.

Disinfectants require at least 80 percent pine oil and a warm water cycle to be effective, conditions that conflict with the safe cold, gentle cycle recommended for shoes. Using disinfectants alongside shoes risks damaging adhesives and fabrics without guaranteed sanitation benefits. Instead, focus on regular cleaning cycles and removing odors through fresh air drying.

Preparing and Loading Shoes for Washing

Place your shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to keep them contained and protect your washer drum. Tying shoelaces loosely or removing them prevents tangling and damage. Add two or three towels or sheets to the load; they balance the wash and create friction that helps scrub shoe surfaces gently.

Do not wash shoes alone. The extra items help with agitation and reduce rattling or banging noises during spinning. Loading the washer correctly makes your cleaning process more efficient and lowers the chances of shoes deforming or scratching the machine’s interior.

How Long Does It Take to Wash and Dry Shoes Properly?

A typical wash cycle for shoes on a gentle or delicate setting usually lasts about 30 to 40 minutes. This shorter, low-agitation cycle helps protect the materials while still cleaning effectively. Once the cycle is done, your shoes need to be dried properly, which generally takes much longer than washing, typically 24 to 48 hours of air drying. How long they take depends on their material, how wet they are after washing, and the airflow where you let them dry.

After removing your shoes from the washer and mesh bag, place them in a dry, well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight. Avoid humid or closed areas because moisture will slow drying and may cause mold or unpleasant smells. For example, shoes made from canvas or fabric can dry faster due to their breathability, often within 24 hours on a breezy day. In contrast, leather or thicker materials might need up to 48 hours or more to dry completely.

You’ll know your shoes are fully dry when they feel lightweight and no longer cold or damp inside. Check inside the shoe by pressing your fingers against the sole and the tongue area for any moisture. When you notice stiffness or dampness, keep air drying them. Some people use newspaper or dry towels stuffed inside as moisture absorbers to speed things up, replace them every few hours until dry.

Occasionally, your shoes may not be dry enough after the initial drying period, especially if they are very wet or thick. In case they’re still damp after 48 hours, air dry longer or run another 20-minute spin on a gentle washer cycle to remove extra water before finishing air drying. Avoid placing shoes in the dryer, as heat can damage glue and materials.

Always air dry your shoes in a well-ventilated area, never in direct sunlight, to prevent material damage and ensure even drying.

Can You Put Shoes in the Dryer? Risks and Best Practices

Using a dryer to dry shoes generally carries significant risks and is not recommended for most types of footwear. Heat from the dryer can cause fabric to shrink, glue that holds shoes together to weaken, soles to warp, and the overall shape of the shoe to change. These risks make drying shoes in a high-heat environment unsafe, especially for materials sensitive to heat like leather, suede, and many synthetic fabrics.

Always check the shoe’s care label before using a dryer to follow the manufacturer’s advice. For shoes made of canvas, cotton, or polyester, drying on the lowest heat setting for a brief period can sometimes be acceptable. Keep this drying time minimal, around 10 to 15 minutes, to avoid overheating. Avoid putting shoelaces in the dryer to prevent damage to plastic tips or shrinkage.

Because the dryer’s tumbling action coupled with heat can cause damage, a safer choice is air drying. Placing your shoes somewhere well-ventilated and away from direct sunlight overnight allows them to dry slowly without risking heat damage or shrinkage. Sunlight can help speed up the drying process, but be cautious with colored or delicate materials that might fade in prolonged sun exposure. Wrapping shoes in a thick towel and placing them in a warm room can also absorb excess moisture safely without using heat.

Without a drying rack, stuff shoes with dry newspaper or paper towels to soak up moisture while air drying. This method reduces drying time without any heat risk. For particularly stubbornly wet shoes, combining air drying with a fan aimed at the shoes can improve airflow and speed the process.

The decision rule is straightforward: avoid the dryer unless the shoe label explicitly says it is safe and the material is durable, like canvas or polyester. Even then, choose the lowest heat setting and limit time. Otherwise, favor air drying methods to protect your shoes’ structure, support, and lifespan. Using the dryer may save time but can lead to costly damage and distortion, so weigh this tradeoff carefully before proceeding.

Common Mistakes When Washing Shoes and How to Fix Them

Many shoe owners make common mistakes washing shoes in the machine that cause damage or reduce their lifespan. One major issue is using hot water or harsh washing settings. High temperatures can weaken shoe glue and damage materials, leading to shoes losing their shape or shrinking. Washing shoes on a cold, gentle cycle helps protect them, preserving both appearance and structure.

Another frequent error is not protecting the shoes properly during washing. Shoes banging directly against the drum or other items can cause scuffs and tears, and it may also harm the washing machine over time. To prevent this, always place shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase before washing. Removing laces and insoles can also improve cleaning and reduce tangling.

• Use cold water and gentle cycle only to prevent shrinkage and glue weakening
• Place shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase for protection during the wash
• Remove laces and insoles before washing to avoid tangling and allow better cleaning
• Stuff shoes with rags or newspaper before hand washing to maintain shape
• Do not overload the washer; wash only a few shoes at a time
• Dry shoes naturally; avoid machine drying to prevent warping or shrinking
• Clean your washing machine regularly to avoid residue buildup that can damage shoes

Shoes lose their shape or shrink when exposed to hot water or aggressive spins, because these conditions relax materials and break glued bonds. Using cold water helps keep the material stable. Overly aggressive washing or drying speeds can also distort the shoe’s structure. Maintaining the right settings means your shoes keep their support and feel comfortable longer, especially for running or athletic shoes designed with precise fits.

To avoid damage to the washer itself, avoid washing heavy or lace-up shoes mixed with delicate clothes. Shoes can catch or jam parts of the machine, causing mechanical issues. If your shoes do get ruined in the washer, air-dry them slowly by stuffing with newspaper to regain shape while absorbing moisture. Avoid applying heat or putting them in the dryer, since this can worsen shrinking and warping.

Treat your shoes gently during the washing process and pay attention to water temperature, washing cycle, and the use of protective bags. These steps reduce risk and help your shoes last through multiple washes without losing shape, comfort, or style.

Hand Washing Shoes and Alternatives to Machine Cleaning

Hand washing offers a gentle and effective way to clean shoes that aren’t safe for machine washing. It gives you control over the amount of water and agitation used, which is especially important for delicate materials. Plus, some shoes just need spot cleaning or deodorizing without going completely wet. Here’s how to hand wash shoes and care for them using simple alternatives that are both practical and safe.

Hand Washing Steps for Shoes

Start by removing the laces and insoles, if possible. Use lukewarm water mixed with a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap. Dip a soft brush or cloth into the soapy water, then scrub the shoes gently, focusing on dirty or stained areas. Avoid soaking the entire shoe, especially if it’s made of leather or suede, as too much water can damage the material. After cleaning, rinse with a damp cloth to remove soap residue. Let the shoes air dry at room temperature, away from direct heat or sunlight, which could cause warping or fading.

For insoles, soak them briefly in soapy water, scrub lightly, rinse, and then air dry completely before putting them back. Hand washing takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how dirty the shoes are and requires just basic household supplies, making it a low-cost cleaning method.

Deodorizing Shoes Without Water

Sometimes you don’t need to wash shoes to get rid of odors. Sprinkling baking soda inside the shoes and letting it sit overnight helps absorb moisture and smells. Take out the baking soda the next day to avoid residue buildup. Another option is using odor-fighting sprays or placing dryer sheets inside shoes when they’re not worn.

A quick air-out after use helps reduce odors, too, by letting moisture evaporate. These methods save water, prevent wear caused by washing, and are great for shoes that aren’t visibly dirty but need refreshing.

Professional Cleaning Options

Some shoes, especially high-end or specialty types, benefit from professional cleaning. Shoe repair shops or specialized cleaners use techniques and products designed to clean without damaging delicate materials. This option usually costs more and takes longer but can extend the life of your shoes when at-home methods aren’t safe or effective.

Look for professionals who advertise shoe restoration or leather care services. They often use steam cleaning, special brushes, and conditioners tailored for various fabrics and finishes.

Using Household Items for Care

Apart from soap and water, items like white vinegar, toothpaste, and baby wipes serve as quick fixes for stains or scuff marks. For example, dab a soft cloth lightly soaked with white vinegar on canvas stains or use a non-gel toothpaste and toothbrush to brighten white rubber soles. Baby wipes can clean dirt off leather or synthetic surfaces in a pinch without soaking the material.

These alternatives are handy when you don’t want to soak shoes or need spot cleaning while on the go. Test such items on a small, hidden area first to avoid discoloration or damage.

Always check the shoe’s care label before cleaning and test any cleaning method in an inconspicuous spot first to prevent unwanted damage.

Step-by-Step Action Plan for Washing Your Shoes in the Washer

Follow these steps to clean your shoes safely and effectively in your washing machine.

1. Before you start: Remove laces and insoles from your shoes to protect them and prevent tangling. Check the shoe label for washing instructions.
2. Preparation: Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris. Place shoes in a laundry bag or pillowcase to reduce impact during washing.
3. Loading the washer: Add towels or other soft items to balance the load and cushion the shoes. Avoid washing shoes alone to prevent machine damage.
4. Choosing settings: Select a gentle cycle with cold water and use a mild detergent without bleach or harsh chemicals.
5. After washing: Remove shoes promptly and reshape them if needed. Avoid wringing or twisting to preserve the shoe’s form.
6. Drying: Air-dry shoes at room temperature away from direct heat or sunlight. Stuff shoes with paper towels to speed drying and maintain shape.
7. Reassembly: Once fully dry, replace the insoles and laces. Check for any damage before wearing them again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Okay to Wash Shoes in Laundry?

Most shoes crafted from canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester can typically be cleaned in a washing machine. Checking the care label beforehand helps prevent any damage.

What Is the Easiest Way to Wash Shoes?

Using a washing machine on a delicate cycle with a laundry bag is the easiest method for washable shoes and saves time compared to hand washing.

Is It Better to Wash Shoes in the Washer or Dishwasher?

Washing shoes in the washer is better since dishwashers use high heat and harsh detergents that can ruin shoe materials.

Can I Just Throw My Shoes in the Washer and Dryer?

You should never just toss shoes in without preparation; remove laces, use a laundry bag, and avoid the dryer to prevent damage.

Can You Put Your Shoes in the Washing Machine?

Yes, many sneakers and canvas shoes can go in the washing machine if you use a gentle cycle and prepare them properly.

How Often Should You Wash Your Athletic Shoes?

Wash your athletic shoes every few weeks or when they start to smell or look dirty.

Key Points to Remember

Washing your shoes in the machine can be safe if you follow proper steps to protect both your footwear and washer. Start by checking which shoes can handle this cleaning method, prepare them carefully, and use the right settings. Give your shoes enough time to dry thoroughly after washing. Try this method with a less valuable pair first to see how it works for you.