Did you know you can wash shoes in the washer? I bet you’re a bit surprised and you’re wondering how this is possible without you ruining your footwear. But it’s actually quite simple.
This article will show you exactly how to do it, so you can keep your shoes looking great for longer! You’ll also learn what types of shoes are machine washable and which ones need hand washing.
What kind of shoes can you wash in a washer?
For starters, not all footwear are machine washable. Shoes made of cotton, nylon, and polyester such as running shoes and canvas shoes are great for machine washing.
However, you can’t throw your favorite pair of suede shoes or leather shoes into a washing machine. These materials are too delicate and could be damaged by the heat from the machine. If you have these kinds of shoes, you should hand-wash them instead.
How should I wash my shoes in the washing machine? – step by step guide
Throwing your dirty athletic shoes in the washer without going through the proper procedures might leave you with a broken washing machine. As such, you should always follow the instructions on the label of your shoe to ensure that it is clean and safe for use. Here’s how to wash your shoes in an easy way:
Step 1 – Check the washing instructions
Like I said earlier, not every pair of shoes can withstand a machine wash. Check the shoe label and read the care instructions before putting them in the washer. If it doesn’t say anything about it being safe for a complete wash cycle, then you should probably consider alternative methods.
Step 2 – Remove Dirt Before Washing.
Remove any stubborn dirt, such as mud, sand, or stones, from your shoes before putting them in the washer. Failure to do so could result in total washer damage. You can use water and a soft-bristled brush to remove the loose dirt with your shoe.
Step 3 – Remove the Lace and Insoles.
You must unlace your shoes and remove the insoles before washing shoes in the washer. This is due to the fact that insoles are constructed of synthetic foam materials that take a long time to dry. Warm water and detergent should be used to clean the insoles.
Step 4 – Add a few old bath towels for balance
Fill your washer with 4-6 old towels to help balance the load and avoid any vibration. Make sure not to use color-bleeding towels to avoid a color transfer that may ruin your perfect pair of shoes.
Step 5 – Place your Shoes in a Wash Bag
You don’t want your casual shoes ruined when they come out of the washer. Therefore, you should put your shoes and the lace in a washing bag before throwing them in the washing machine. This protects your shoes from being damaged by the washer’s drain holes. If you don’t have a washing bag, your pillowcase will do just fine.
Step 6 – Add liquid detergent to the washer.
Use a mild dishwashing detergent to wash your shoes. While washing, the inner part of your shoe doesn’t get enough water circulation. Therefore, using powder detergent may not dissolve properly and can get stuck inside the shoe. A liquid laundry detergent works better than powders because they provide more surface area for cleaning.
Step 7 – Run a cold water cycle
The best temperature for washing your shoe is cold. Cold water helps prevent wrinkles and creases while warm water dries faster. The ideal temperature for washing your shoe should be around 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). Using hot or warm water could cause permanent damage to your shoes. Also, make sure to set the wash cycle settings to a normal or delicate cycle.
Step 8 – drying your shoe after wash
After the washing process is done, let your shoe air-dry completely. Don’t try to speed up the drying process by hanging your shoe outside. Air-drying your shoes at room temperature is the best method. If you’re scared of it smelling like a wet dog, you can also use an electric fan to dry your shoes. Just make sure to keep your shoes away from direct sunlight.
Why should I wash my shoe?
For Longevity
Your shoes will last longer if you wash them. If not rinsed away, dirt-like mud can ruin the soles of your shoes. Always wash your shoes to keep them in good condition.
To keep your environment clean, especially your home
Your shoes will stain your house once they are dirty. Cleaning your shoes keeps filth out of your house. This is especially vital if you have children at home
It saves time
In an emergency, you won’t be late because your shoes have been washed and are ready to wear. All you have to do now is choose any of the clean shoes for whatever emergency you’re dealing with.
It keeps your feet healthy
Your feet will be protected from diseases if you wear clean shoes. Your feet will not come into contact with germs if your shoes are always clean and cleansed.
How to wash shoes in the washer – FAQ
Is it safe to wash shoes in a washing machine?
It is safe to wash fabric shoes in a washing machine. ensure to read the shoe care instructions carefully before doing so. Do not place your shoes in the dryer as this would destroy their laces and stitching.
Can you clean leather shoes in the washing machine?
You shouldn’t wash leather shoes in the washing machines. Leather requires special treatment and does not tolerate moisture well. It may even crack if left in the washer too long.
Conclusion
Yes, it’s possible to wash your favorite pair of sneakers in a washer. However, not all shoes are suitable for machine washing so you need to check the care instructions first. Some shoes require hand washing only. For example, rubber shoes don’t take soap and water very well. Hopefully, these tips help you wash your shoes without causing any harm to them.
