Wash Your Shoes in the Washing Machine (the Right Way): the Result Will be Perfect

Shoes often get very dirty due to contact with dirt, mud, and bacteria on the ground. Regular hand washing may not be sufficient for thorough cleaning and sanitizing. That’s where machine washing comes in. However, not all shoes are suitable for machine washing. Before attempting this, it’s crucial to read the labels and instructions. Materials like leather or suede usually require dry cleaning, as do shoes with delicate embellishments like ribbons, beads, or lace. Following these guidelines helps maintain the quality and appearance of your shoes.

Sneakers, often made of canvas or polyester materials, are some of the most commonly machine-washed footwear. Although they are durable, they still need specific care to avoid damage. Let’s explore some tips to ensure your sneakers come out clean and intact.

Useful tips for washing shoes in the washing machine

Before proceeding with washing, it’s crucial to remove any mud or dust that has built up both inside and on the surface of your sneakers. Shake your shoes outdoors to prevent dirt from scattering, then use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub away remaining debris.

If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out before washing. You can place them in a net bag for machine washing or choose to hand wash them separately using a solution of Marseille soap and bicarbonate of soda.

Regarding the laces, you can wash them with your shoes. However, wash them by hand if they are dark to prevent fading.

For machine washing, use a protective net, readily available in the market, to safeguard both your shoes and the washing machine. Select a cold wash cycle (up to 68° degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius) using the delicate setting with the lowest possible spin speed. Choose liquid detergents over powder to prevent residue from getting trapped in the fabric fibers, ensuring a thorough and gentle clean.

To remove stains from the rubber parts of your shoes, you can use a magic eraser. Wet it, wring it out, and gently rub it on the rubber surfaces to tackle stubborn marks. If you don’t have a protective net for your shoes, wrap them in a towel for added protection. To prevent your shoes from making noise in the washing machine, lock the laces in the door when closing it.