Master the Art of Washing Your Shoes in a Washing Machine Safely

Cleaning your shoes in a washing machine can be effortless—just follow the care labels carefully!

Which Shoes Are Suitable for Machine Washing?

Before tossing your shoes into the washer, it's crucial to check whether machine washing is safe for them. Look for care instructions on the label inside the shoe or the original packaging. If there are no specific guidelines, here are general recommendations:

• Machine washing is generally safe for textile sneakers, canvas shoes, and rubber flip-flops. Shoes made from breathable membranes, polyester, and nylon also tolerate machine cleaning well.

• Avoid washing shoes made from genuine or synthetic leather, as well as those with glued soles, since washing might cause the sole to detach. Suede and nubuck shoes, footwear with fur or velvet inserts (including indoor slippers), patent leather boots, and shoes with large metallic decorations are also not suitable for machine washing. These materials can lose their appearance and durability after a wash cycle.

Preparation Tips Before Washing Your Shoes

If your shoes are machine-washable, take these steps to protect their look and longevity:

1. Remove dirt, stones, and sand from the soles by scrubbing them gently with a brush and mild soapy water.

2. Treat any visible stains with a stain remover and let it sit for 10–15 minutes or as directed on the product. No need to rinse—it will be cleaned during the wash.

3. Take out shoelaces, insoles, and any detachable decorative elements. Wash these separately inside a mesh laundry bag to prevent damage or loss.

4. Fasten all Velcro closures and straps to maintain the shoe’s shape and avoid damage during washing.

5. Place the shoes inside a dedicated laundry bag or an old pillowcase tied securely to prevent them from banging around inside the drum.

6. Wash shoes separately from other clothing items to avoid color transfer.

7. Use liquid detergents, which are gentler and rinse out more easily than powders. For shoes with technical membranes, select a specialized gel that preserves the fabric's properties.

Washing Sneakers and Canvas Shoes

Follow the preparation steps above: clean the soles, remove laces and insoles, and place the shoes in a laundry bag or pillowcase. Tie the pillowcase securely to avoid losing the shoes during the cycle. For heavier or larger sneakers, add a large, colorfast towel to cushion impact inside the drum.

Use a delicate or shoe-specific cycle with water temperature not exceeding 86°F (30°C). Avoid hot water as it may deform soles and shrink fabrics.

Cleaning Rubber Flip-Flops

Wipe the soles with a damp cloth, then place the flip-flops in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. Wash on a gentle or hand-wash cycle using liquid detergent.

Washing Textile Slippers

Brush or wipe the soles clean and ensure all decorative parts are securely attached—repair loose elements with needle and thread if necessary. Place slippers in a laundry bag and wash on a delicate or hand-wash cycle with liquid detergent for gentle yet effective cleaning.

This method is also suitable for shoes made from membranes, polyester, and nylon.

Drying Your Shoes Properly

Check the shoe label for drying instructions. If tumble drying is not recommended, avoid using a dryer.

For rubber flip-flops, wipe them dry with an absorbent cloth and let them air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent cracking.

Hang slippers outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to dry naturally.

For sneakers and canvas shoes, stuff them with crumpled paper to absorb moisture and help maintain shape. Dry them at room temperature or in the shade outdoors. You can keep the shoes laced while drying for easier paper stuffing and better shape retention, or dry them unlaced while supporting the tongue with your hand.

With these tips, you can confidently wash your machine-friendly shoes and keep them looking fresh and clean for longer.

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