How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine: 8 Steps (with Pictures) (2024)

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of washing shoes in the washing machine? ›

Many shoes contain materials that wouldn't survive machine washing without damage. Also glue which can be dissolved/weakened by hot water. In addition, they might take a long time to dry.

It is not advisable to put more than two, maybe three, pairs of shoes in the washing machine at one time due to their weight and the damage they can do to your washing machine's drum.

Yes, you can put and wash shoes in the washing machine. While the thought of your sneakers banging around your drum may not sound so appealing, it's better than laboriously hand-scrubbing them in the sink.

If you don't have a laundry bag, an empty pillowcase is a good alternative. If you've ever tried washing shoes before, you'll know that it can get a little noisy, so make up the rest of the wash load with towels. These will act as a buffer, helping to stop your shoes banging against the drum during the wash.

If your shoes have any type of suede or leather trim or have been treated with a water-repellent, they should not be washed in a washing machine—hand-wash them instead. This is also true for any shoes embellished with trim, beading, or rope soles.

Wrap a towel or sheet around the outside: Wrap something soft and absorbent around the outside of your shoes to dry the outer areas. Place in a dry area: Keep your shoes indoors, away from direct sunlight, in an area that is dry and well-ventilated.

If you've noticed that your shoes are more noticeably smelly each time you put them on, you may be wondering, "Can you put shoes in the washer and dryer?" While there are some shoes that can be cleaned in your washing machine, you shouldn't put them in your clothes dryer afterward.

HOW MANY SHOES CAN BE WASHED AT ONCE? You can typically wash 2-3 pairs of shoes at a time, depending on the size of your washing machine. Make sure each pair of shoes is in its own laundry bag, and add an additional amount of Laundry Detergent per pair (read all detergent labels.)

You shouldn't wash your shoes in the washing machine with clothes as the dyes in your clothes could stain your shoes. Instead, place a few old towels in with your shoes to prevent them from bouncing around during the wash cycle. Remember to wash your shoes in a mesh garment bag.

What product to use to wash shoes? ›

Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or washing-up liquid. For white and light-coloured shoes, you can also make an effective cleaning paste by mixing bicarbonate of soda and water in equal parts.

Create a gentle cleaning solution of water with a few drops of detergent or dish soap. Next, use the toothbrush or old wash cloth to wipe down shoes on all sides. Rinse thoroughly with warm, clean water. Remove the insole and laces to give each part of your shoe a good scrub down.

Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap. For white and light-colored shoes, you can also make an effective cleaning paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water.

Put the shoes onto some newspaper and then insert a ball shaped piece of newspaper into the shoe up to the toe and wrap the outside of the shoe in newspaper too. The paper will draw out the moisture. Remove and replace with dry paper after an hour. This is the best method to protect your shoes.

Why You Shouldn't Rely on Your Dryer. Not only will your shoes get beat up as they tumble around the dryer, but the heat can also cause your shoes to shrink. Since the perfect fit makes the difference between a supported run and a painful one, you don't want to risk any change to the shape or fit of your shoes.

First things first: Nike does not recommend washing shoes in the washing machine. Properly hand-washing your shoes is the best way to ensure they won't be accidentally harmed in the process. Plus, it's possible to damage your washing machine by washing bulky items, like sneakers, inside.