Ever looked at your dirty sneakers and thought, “Can I just toss these in the washing machine?” You’re not alone. Many of us want to wash shoes in washing machine because it’s quick, easy, and way less messy, than scrubbing shoes by hand. But doing it the wrong way could ruin your shoes or even damage your washer. I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to clean your sneakers safely and properly.
Whether you’ve got muddy running shoes, smelly gym trainers, or stained canvas sneakers, this guide will show you the smart way to clean them using your washing machine.
Can You Really Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?
Well, Yes and No. Not all shoes are machine-washable.
Before tossing shoes into the washer, you need to make sure they’re the right type of shoes for machine cleaning. Here’s what you need to know.
Shoes You Can Wash in a Washing Machine
These materials usually hold up well in a wash cycle:
- Canvas shoes (like Converse or Vans)
- Sneakers and athletic shoes
- Synthetic or mesh shoes
These are common everyday shoes that handle water well and don’t get easily damaged.
Shoes You Shouldn’t Wash in a Washing Machine
These are the ones you’ll want to clean differently:
- Leather shoes
- Suede or nubuck shoes
- Dress shoes or heels
- Shoes with memory foam insoles or built-in electronics
Trust me, putting leather or suede shoes in a washer is like inviting disaster. They’ll warp, shrink, or crack.
Things You Need Before Washing Your Shoes
Preparation is half the job when it comes to machine-washing shoes.
Before you even touch that start button on washing machine, gather these essentials:
- A mesh laundry bag or old pillowcase
- Mild detergent (liquid works better than powder here)
- An old toothbrush
- A soft cloth or sponge
- A couple of old towels (to balance the load)
These will help you get the job done cleanly and safely without damaging your washing machine or your shoes.
How to Wash Shoes in Washing Machine – Step-by-Step
I’m sharing the step-by-step process I use to wash shoes in washing machine without ruining them. I’ve done this plenty of times, and when done right, it works like a charm.
Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles
Take out the shoelaces and insoles before washing.
- Wash laces separately (you can put them in a small laundry bag)
- If insoles are washable, clean them by hand using a soapy cloth
Some insoles get soaked and take forever to dry. So it’s better to clean them outside the machine.
Step 2: Scrub Off Excess Dirt
Use a dry brush or toothbrush to knock off any dried mud or debris from your shoes. This step keeps your washing machine from turning into a muddy swamp and protects its inner drum.
Step 3: Place Shoes in a Mesh Bag or Pillowcase
Put each shoe in a laundry bag or pillowcase to keep them from banging around. Tying the pillowcase shut keeps them from escaping mid-wash. This reduces noise and prevents your shoes from hitting the washer walls too hard.
Step 4: Add Towels for Balance
Throw in a couple of old towels with the shoes. They cushion the shoes during the spin cycle and help balance the load, which protects your washer’s drum.
Step 5: Use a Cold, Gentle Cycle
Set your washer to a cold water setting with a gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water can warp the glue or rubber in your shoes. Cold water is safer and still gets the job done when paired with a decent detergent.
Step 6: Air Dry Your Shoes
Never put shoes in a dryer. That’s a fast track to shrinking or melting them.
- Let them air dry at room temperature
- Stuff them with paper towels or newspaper to help them keep their shape and dry faster
Avoid drying them under direct sunlight for long hours—it can fade the color or harden the material.
Tips to Keep in Mind When You Wash Shoes in Washing Machine
Here are a few helpful pointers from my own experiences:
- Check your shoe label – Most brands like Nike or Adidas will mention whether they’re machine-washable
- Use minimal detergent – Too much soap leaves residue and can make your shoes stiff
- Never use bleach – It’s harsh and damages fabric and color
- Wash similar colors together – White shoes? Don’t mix with dark towels
- Avoid spinning at high speed – Go easy on the spin to reduce wear and tear
These small tips can make a big difference in how clean and fresh your shoes come out.
How Often Should You Wash Shoes in a Machine?
I recommend washing shoes in the washing machine once every couple of months or only when they’re visibly dirty or smelly.
Over-washing can weaken the stitching and wear down materials. For regular maintenance, just wiping them down with a damp cloth or using a sneaker spray usually does the trick.
Alternatives to Washing Shoes in Washing Machine
Sometimes it’s better to hand wash your shoes, especially if they’re expensive or delicate.
You can also try:
- Spot cleaning with a toothbrush and detergent mix
- Using a sneaker cleaning kit
- Dry shampoo or baking soda for deodorizing
These methods are gentler and help extend the life of your shoes.
Final Thoughts
Washing shoes in a washing machine is one of those things that sounds risky, but if you do it right, it’s actually super effective.
Just follow the steps, prep your shoes properly, and always air dry. It’s honestly a time-saver and gets your sneakers looking fresh without the elbow grease.
I do this for my canvas shoes all the time, and they still look like new. Just don’t try it with leather or suede—those are better off with a little extra care by hand.
Your Thoughts?
- Have you ever tried washing your shoes in the machine?
- What type of shoes are you planning to clean?
- Want a guide on how to clean leather or suede shoes too?
Drop your thoughts or questions below—I’d love to hear what worked for you!