If your sports shoes are machine-washable, a washing machine can be a convenient way to clean them. However, not every sports shoe should go in the washer. Before washing, check the manufacturer’s care instructions and look for materials such as leather, suede, or delicate glued components that may be damaged by machine washing.
Can You Wash Sports Shoes in a Washing Machine?
Some sports shoes, particularly certain fabric, mesh, canvas, and synthetic shoes, can be washed in a washing machine. Running shoes and trainers are often easier to clean this way than shoes made from leather or suede.
The safest approach is to check the shoe’s care label or the manufacturer’s instructions first. If machine washing is not recommended, clean the shoes by hand instead.
How to Wash Sports Shoes in a Washing Machine
1. Remove the Laces and Insoles
Take the laces out before putting the shoes in the washer. Wash the laces separately in a laundry bag or by hand.
If the insoles are removable, take them out as well. Insoles can hold moisture and may lose their shape during machine washing. Clean them separately according to their care instructions.
2. Remove Loose Dirt
Before washing, brush off mud, dirt, grass, and other debris. A soft brush or old toothbrush can help clean the soles and areas around the upper.
If the shoes are heavily muddy, allow the mud to dry first and then brush it away. This reduces the amount of dirt that goes into your washing machine.
3. Put the Shoes in a Laundry Bag
Place the shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase that can be securely closed. This helps prevent the shoes from hitting the inside of the washing machine as aggressively during the cycle.
You can also add a few old towels to the load. The towels provide cushioning and help reduce banging while the machine runs.
4. Use Cold or Cool Water
Choose a cold or cool-water cycle. Hot water can potentially damage adhesives, synthetic materials, finishes, or other components of some sports shoes.
A gentle or delicate cycle is generally preferable to a heavy-duty cycle.
5. Use a Small Amount of Mild Detergent
Use a modest amount of regular mild laundry detergent. Avoid using excessive detergent because residue can remain in the fabric.
You generally do not need bleach or harsh cleaning chemicals unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them for the shoe.
6. Use a Gentle Spin
A low or moderate spin speed can help reduce stress on the shoes. If your machine allows you to adjust the spin setting, avoid unnecessarily aggressive spinning.
The shoes may still contain considerable moisture when the cycle finishes, which is normal.
How to Dry Sports Shoes After Washing
Do not put sports shoes in a clothes dryer unless the manufacturer specifically says they are dryer-safe.
High heat can damage adhesives and materials and can cause some shoes to shrink or lose their shape.
Instead, remove the shoes from the washer and let them air-dry in a well-ventilated area.
Stuffing the shoes loosely with clean paper towels can help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Replace the paper when it becomes wet.
Keep the shoes away from direct high heat, such as radiators, heaters, or hair dryers.
What Sports Shoes Should Not Go in the Washing Machine?
Some shoes are better cleaned by hand. This can include shoes made with:
- Leather
- Suede
- Delicate fabrics
- Decorative materials
- Components that the manufacturer says are not machine-washable
If you’re unsure, check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before putting the shoes in the washer.
How Often Should You Machine-Wash Sports Shoes?
There is no universal schedule. Wash your shoes when they are noticeably dirty or have developed an odor that normal airing does not resolve.
Frequent machine washing can put additional stress on footwear, so routine cleaning with a soft brush and damp cloth can be a better option for light dirt.
If your shoes are only slightly dirty, spot-cleaning them may be enough.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple mistakes can shorten the life of sports shoes.
Using hot water: Heat may damage some materials and adhesives.
Using too much detergent: Excess detergent can be difficult to rinse completely.
Putting shoes directly in the dryer: High temperatures may damage the shoe.
Skipping the manufacturer’s instructions: Different shoes use different materials and construction methods.
Washing heavily muddy shoes without removing dirt first: Excess dirt can make the washing process less effective and unnecessarily dirty the machine.
A Simple Washing Routine
For machine-washable sports shoes, the process can be kept simple:
- Check the manufacturer’s care instructions.
- Remove the laces and removable insoles.
- Brush away loose dirt and mud.
- Put the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
- Add a few old towels if appropriate.
- Use cold or cool water and a gentle cycle.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Air-dry the shoes completely.
- Do not use high heat unless the manufacturer specifically permits it.
FAQ
Can I put running shoes in the washing machine?
Some running shoes can be machine-washed, particularly those made primarily from washable synthetic or textile materials. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing.
Can I wash sports shoes with clothes?
It is generally better to wash sports shoes separately or with a few old towels rather than mixing them with delicate clothing. A laundry bag can also help protect the shoes and washing machine.
Can I use detergent to wash sports shoes?
Yes, if the shoes are machine-washable, a small amount of mild laundry detergent is generally appropriate. Avoid excessive detergent and harsh chemicals unless the manufacturer recommends them.
Can I put sports shoes in the dryer?
Avoid doing so unless the manufacturer specifically states that the shoes are dryer-safe. Air-drying is usually the safer option.
How long do sports shoes take to air-dry?
Drying time varies according to the shoe’s materials, humidity, airflow, and how much water remains after washing. Allow them to dry completely before wearing them again.
Can I wash sports shoes in hot water?
Cold or cool water is generally the safer choice. Hot water can damage some shoe materials, adhesives, and finishes.
Conclusion
You can wash some sports shoes in a washing machine, but you should check the manufacturer’s instructions first. For machine-washable shoes, remove the laces and insoles, brush off loose dirt, use a laundry bag, choose a gentle cold-water cycle, and use a small amount of mild detergent. Most importantly, let the shoes air-dry instead of exposing them to high heat.
Following these steps can help clean your sports shoes while reducing the risk of unnecessary damage.