How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine Like a Pro Without Wrecking Them
If you want to wash shoes in washing machine cycle without causing permanent damage, you must follow specific rules. Many people toss their favourite sneakers into the drum only to find them warped, discoloured, or falling apart at the seams.
Washing shoes incorrectly can ruin the delicate adhesives and fabrics that hold them together. While it might seem easy just to press “start,” the wrong settings can lead to a costly mistake. Following the right process protects your investment.
For those who own luxury items or delicate materials, choosing a professional laundry and dry cleaning service like Love2Laundry is often the smartest way to extend their life. Our expert guide provides top tips on how to wash shoes in a washing machine drum safely. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to get that “new shoe” look without the risk of a breakdown.
Can You Really Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?
You can definitely wash shoes in a washing machine, but only if the material allows it. Most everyday sneakers made from synthetic fabrics or canvas handle the agitation well. However, you must be cautious. Submerging certain materials in water for extended periods can lead to structural failure.
The best way to wash shoes in washing machine involves checking the glue’s durability and the fabric’s thickness. If your shoes are fragile or have intricate detailing, the mechanical action of the machine might be too aggressive. In these cases, professional cleaning is the safer option to avoid irreparable harm.
Types of Shoes That Are Safe (and Unsafe) for Machine Washing
Understanding the limits of your footwear prevents a laundry disaster. Not every pair is built to survive a spin cycle. Making a quick, informed decision now saves you from throwing away ruined footwear later. When in doubt, remember that professional laundry or dry cleaning is the better choice for high-end items.
Shoes That Can Usually Go in the Washing Machine
To wash shoes in washing machine cycles safely, stick to trainers, canvas shoes, and synthetic footwear. These materials are generally woven and can withstand water saturation. Most modern athletic shoes use nylon or polyester, which cleans up nicely under mechanical agitation.
Always look for a manufacturer label inside the tongue or the heel. This label tells you if the material is machine-friendly. Even for these “safe” shoes, the best way to wash shoes in washing machine drums is to use a protective barrier to prevent them from hitting the sides too hard.
Shoes You Should Never Put in a Washing Machine
Never put leather, suede, nubuck, or formal dress shoes in the machine. Water causes leather to crack and lose its natural oils. Suede will become stiff and lose its soft texture if it gets soaked. If you have suede items, you should research how to clean suede shoes rather than using a machine.
Embellished shoes with sequins, beads, or delicate embroidery will likely fall apart. The high-speed rotation and water temperature can permanently damage these luxury materials. For these items, hand washing shoes or taking them to a specialist is the only way to go.
What to Do Before Putting Shoes in the Washing Machine
Preparation is the most vital step in this process. Skipping the prep work is the most common mistake people make. If you don’t prepare the footwear, you risk damaging both the shoes and your washing machine.
A little effort before the wash goes a long way in maintaining the integrity of the soles and the fabrics.
Check the Care Label First
The care label is your ultimate guide. It provides specific instructions on the right water temperature for every laundry load and which cycles to avoid. If the label is missing or faded, err on the side of caution.
Use the gentlest settings available. If you are still unsure, opting for professional dry cleaning services is the best option. We have the expertise to handle mystery fabrics without the guesswork.
Remove Laces and Insoles
Always take out the laces and insoles before you wash shoes in washing machine drums. Laces can get tangled in the agitator or the drum holes. This leads to fraying or snapping. Wash the laces separately by putting them in a small mesh laundry bag. Insoles act like sponges.
They trap a lot of moisture and soap, which leads to a bad smell if they don’t dry quickly. It is better to clean insoles by hand using a bit of baking soda and a damp cloth. This helps prevent uneven wear and keeps the interior fresh.
Pre-Clean Excess Dirt and Mud
Do not put muddy shoes directly in the machine. Dried mud and dirt can clog your appliance’s drainage system. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to remove loose debris from the soles and the upper fabric.
This prevents stains from setting deeper into the fabric during the wash. If you skip this, the dirt just turns into a thin mud that coats the entire shoe during the cycle. This step is a core part of the top tips on how to wash shoes in washing machine success stories.
How to Prepare Your Washing Machine for Washing Shoes
Your washing machine is a powerful tool, but it can be aggressive. Protecting the drum and balancing the load reduces noise and impact damage. You want to avoid the loud ‘thumping’ sound that occurs when heavy shoes fly around inside.
Use a Laundry Bag or Old Towels
Place your shoes inside an empty pillowcase or a dedicated laundry bag to cushion the impact. This prevents the shoes from banging against the drum walls, which can damage the machine’s internal balance.
Another trick is to include a wash load of towels to act as a buffer. Use old, light-colored towels so the dye doesn’t transfer to your shoes. This keeps the load balanced and quiet. It is the best way to wash shoes in a washing machine without waking up the neighbours or damaging your appliance.
Best Washing Machine Settings for Shoes
The settings you choose determine if your shoes come out clean or ruined. Harsh cycles can warp the rubber soles or weaken the glue holding the shoe together. You need a gentle touch for the best results.
Choose the Right Wash Programme
Select a delicate or hand-wash cycle. These programmes have a low spin speed. Low spin is vital because it prevents the shoes from being thrown around with excessive force. Protecting the shoe structure is the goal here.
High-speed spins can stretch the fabric or cause the soles to detach. Even if the shoes are very dirty, the gentle cycle is sufficient if you have pre-treated the stains.
Set the Correct Water Temperature
Always use cold or lukewarm water. Heat is the enemy of footwear. Hot water can shrink synthetic fabrics and melt the adhesives that hold the sole to the upper part of the shoe. Cold water is much safer for preserving the shape and colour of your trainers.
Most modern detergents work perfectly well in cold water, so there is no need to risk the heat.
Choosing the Right Detergent for Washing Shoes
Avoid using heavy-duty detergents or bleach. Mild liquid detergent is the best choice for this task. Strong chemicals can cause the colours to fade or make the fabric feel stiff. Powder detergents may not fully dissolve in a cold wash, leaving a chalky residue inside the shoe.
If you have a stubborn stain, hand washing shoes in those specific spots with a mild soap before the machine cycle is a better strategy than using harsh chemicals in the drum.
How to Dry Shoes Properly After Washing
The job isn’t done when the machine beeps. Drying is just as important as washing. Many people ruin their shoes at this final stage by trying to speed up the process. Mistakes here can undo all your careful work in the previous steps.
Always Air-Dry Your Shoes
You must air-dry shoes naturally in a well-ventilated area. Never put your footwear in a tumble dryer. The high heat of a dryer can warp the rubber, permanently deforming its shape.
Similarly, do not place them directly on a radiator. Extreme heat makes the materials brittle. Patience is key. Find a spot with good airflow and away from direct sunlight to prevent colour fading.
For more details on the risks of heat, check our guide on Air-Drying vs. Machine-Drying.
Help Shoes Keep Their Shape While Drying
While the shoes are damp, they are prone to losing their form. Stuff them with plain white paper towels or clean rags. This helps the shoes maintain their shape while they dry.
The stuffing also absorbs moisture from the inside, which speeds up the drying time. Avoid using newspaper, as the ink can bleed into the damp fabric, leaving permanent stains. Change the paper every few hours if it gets too wet.
Common Mistakes That Ruin Shoes in the Washing Machine
Many people fail to wash shoes in the washing machine cycles properly because they cut corners. One big mistake is using hot water, which shrinks the shoes. Another is using a high spin cycle that breaks the internal heel counter. Skipping preparation, such as not removing mud or laces, leads to poor cleaning and potential machine damage.
Drying shoes incorrectly, such as leaving them in the sun or near a fire, can cause the soles to peel. These errors cause long-term damage, shortening the lifespan of your footwear. Following the top tips on how to wash shoes in a washing machine is the only way to avoid these pitfalls.
When to Choose Professional Laundry and Dry Cleaning for Shoes
Sometimes, trying to wash shoes in washing machine drums isn’t worth the risk. This is especially true for expensive, delicate, or branded footwear. If you spent hundreds of dollars on a pair of designer sneakers, a home machine is a gamble.
Professional services use specialised tools and cleaning agents that are not available to the general public. We can remove deep stains and odours without compromising the shoe’s structural integrity. Professional care ensures a thorough cleaning that keeps your shoes looking brand new for years.
How Love2Laundry Helps Keep Your Shoes Clean and Damage-Free
Love2Laundry is your trusted partner for expert footwear care. We understand that your shoes are an investment. Our team uses proven methods to clean your trainers and delicate footwear safely. We offer the convenience of picking up your items and dropping them off, which is perfect for busy customers in Amsterdam.
You don’t have to worry about settings, detergents, or drying times. We handle it all. If you are curious about our competitive pricing, you can check our website. For any specific questions about your shoes, feel free to contact us anytime. Let the pros handle the grime while you enjoy your day.
FAQs – How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine
Can I put shoes directly in the washing machine?
No, you should not put them in directly. It is best to use a mesh laundry bag or an empty pillowcase. This protects the shoes and the drum from damage. You should also add towels to the load to balance the weight.
Why do shoes smell after washing?
Shoes often smell because they didn’t dry quickly enough. Bacteria thrive in damp environments. If the insoles were not removed, they trap moisture inside. Always air dry shoes in a spot with plenty of moving air to prevent this.
How long do shoes take to dry after washing machine?
It usually takes 24 to 48 hours to dry completely. This depends on the material and the humidity in your home. Do not rush the process with heat, as it will damage the glue.
Final Tips to Keep Your Shoes Looking New for Longer
Learning how to wash shoes in a washing machine correctly is a game changer for your wardrobe. It saves you time and keeps your daily trainers looking fresh. However, you must remember the golden rules: use cold water, select a delicate cycle, and always air dry. If you are dealing with leather, suede, or luxury brands, hand washing shoes is the safer path. For the best results without any of the stress, professional services provide a level of clean that home machines simply cannot match.
By following the steps in this guide, you can maintain your footwear without the fear of wrecking it. If you have a pile of dirty shoes and no time to spare, reach out to Love2Laundry. We provide expert care that keeps your favourites in top condition. Would you like me to create a custom cleaning schedule for your different types of footwear?
