Whether your shoes are caked in mud from a weekend hike or your kids’ trainers are dirty from school sports, don’t toss them out just yet. Here’s everything you need to know about safely washing shoes in the washing machine.
Should You Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Whether or not you should machine wash your shoes largely depends on their material. Start by checking the care label to see if machine washing is recommended. Generally, shoes made from animal-based materials like leather or suede should not be washed in a machine, as water can damage these fabrics. Instead, opt for cleaning products designed specifically for these materials or consider taking them to a professional cleaner.
Similarly, shoes made from delicate fabrics such as satin or silk, or those with embellishments, should be handled with specialized care. However, many other types of shoes, including trainers and kids’ shoes, are machine washable. Shoes made from textiles like cotton, nylon, and polyester, as well as some PU or PVC materials, can typically withstand a machine wash. Always check the care label to be sure.
If the care label says ‘hand wash only,’ you may still be able to use a gentle ‘hand wash’ setting on your washing machine, but proceed with caution.
How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to wash your shoes quickly and efficiently in the washing machine:
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Before anything else, read the care label on your shoes to determine if they’re safe for machine washing. The label will provide guidance based on the fabric type. If machine washing isn’t recommended, you can use a toothbrush to remove surface dirt or a damp cloth as an alternative.
Step 2: Prepare Your Shoes
Remove the laces and scrub off any loose dirt from the surface of your shoes. Use a toothbrush to clean smaller areas like the eyelets, and a stiff-bristled brush for the main surface. For stubborn dirt or stains, rinse your shoes under a running tap before placing them in the machine. This preparation will ensure that your shoes are cleaned effectively in the wash.
Step 3: Protect Your Shoes (and Your Ears)
To protect your shoes during the wash, place them, along with the laces, in a mesh laundry bag. If you don’t have a laundry bag, an old pillowcase can work as an alternative. To reduce the noise of shoes banging against the drum, add a few towels to the load. The towels will act as a buffer, softening the impact and protecting both your shoes and the washing machine.
Step 4: Set Up Your Machine
Choose a cool water setting, ideally around 30 degrees, to prevent the colors of your shoes from running or fading. This is especially important for PU or PVC materials, as high temperatures can damage the coating. Use a color-safe detergent and place one cap in the drum before adding your towels and shoes.
Step 5: Air Dry Your Shoes
Instead of using a tumble dryer, which can cause the glue in your shoes to melt and compromise their structure, air dry your shoes. Place them in a warm area and stuff them with scrunched-up newspaper. The newspaper will absorb excess moisture and help your shoes retain their shape as they dry, ensuring they remain as comfortable as ever.
Whether you’re dashing between meetings or chasing after kids, your shoes endure a lot of wear and tear. With this guide, you can keep them clean and in good condition without the hassle of handwashing.