How To Wash Sports Shoes In Washing Machine

Learn How To Wash Sports Shoes In Washing Machine. Follow our step-by-step guide, including tips for removing laces and insoles, using a special washing bag, selecting the right wash program, and adding disinfectant stain remover.

Hey there, fellow athletes and active enthusiasts! If you’re wondering how to thoroughly clean your beloved sports shoes without breaking a sweat, you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to safely wash your sports shoes in a washing machine, ensuring they look fresh and ready for your next adventure.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of the process, let’s gather the essential supplies you’ll need:

1. Sports Shoes: The stars of the show, of course.
2. Mesh Laundry Bag: Protects your shoes and the washing machine drum.
3. Mild Detergent: Gentle on fabrics and colors.
4. Old Toothbrush: Perfect for scrubbing out tough spots.
5. Towels: For stuffing inside the shoes and aiding in the drying process.
6. Cold Water: Optimal temperature to prevent color fading and material damage.

Prepping Your Shoes

1. Remove Laces and Insoles: Start by taking out the laces and insoles. This ensures a more thorough cleaning and prevents tangling.
2. Brush Off Loose Dirt: Use your old toothbrush to gently remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoes. This step helps prevent clogs in the washing machine.

Using the Washing Machine

1. Place Shoes in Mesh Bag: Insert your shoes into the mesh laundry bag. This prevents them from banging around inside the washing machine.
2. Add Towels: For balance, toss in a couple of towels and your shoes. This prevents excessive banging and helps maintain the shape of the shoes.
3. Add Detergent: Add the recommended amount to the washing machine using a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
4. Choose Delicate Cycle: Select your washing machine’s delicate or gentle cycle. Use cold water to prevent shrinking or color fading.

Post-Washing Care

1. Air Dry: After washing, remove your shoes and let them air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can damage the materials.
2. Reassemble Insoles and Laces: Once your shoes are dry, reinsert the insoles and laces. Your shoes are now ready to hit the pavement again!

Quick Tips

• Frequency: Washing your sports shoes every few weeks or as needed helps maintain their freshness.
• Stain Pre-treatment: Pre-treat stubborn stains before washing to ensure better results.
• Avoid Dryer: Never use a dryer to speed up the drying process, as high heat can warp materials and affect the shoe’s performance.

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to safely washing your sports shoes in the washing machine. By following these steps and taking extra care, you can extend the life of your favorite sports shoes and keep them looking as good as new. Happy cleaning, and enjoy your next active adventure!

Remember, before storing or organizing your shoes, it’s essential to clean and disinfect them to reduce the risk of exposure to microorganisms from the dirt and grime accumulated during everyday use.

Benefits of Washing Sports Shoes in a Washing Machine

• Convenience and time-saving.
• Effectiveness in removing dirt and grime.
• Gentle on the shoes compared to hand washing.

Personal Experience:

• Precautions to take before washing.
• Use a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase for protection.
• Importance of a gentle wash cycle and mild detergent.
• Air-drying instead of using a dryer.

Dos & Don’ts When Washing

To achieve the best cleaning results, consider the following additional tips:

1. Wrap Your Shoes with Towels: Wrap your shoes with towels before placing them in the mesh bag. This provides additional protection and minimizes noise during the wash cycle. Use old towels to prevent any potential color transfer if your boots are light-colored.
2. Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Avoid excessive detergent, which can leave stains and make your shoes stiff. Follow the recommended dosage for your specific detergent to achieve optimal cleaning results.
3. Avoid High Heat: Opt for a cool or gentle setting when washing your shoes. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage to the shoes’ materials. Similarly, when drying, choose the air-dry method instead of using heat.
4. Ensure Insoles Are Fully Dry: Before placing them back into the shoes, ensure they are scorched. Trapped moisture can lead to unpleasant odors. Patting them with a sponge can help expedite the drying process.
5. Avoid Direct Sunlight: When drying your shoes, avoid direct exposure to sunlight, as it may cause fading of colors. Instead, choose a shaded area or a well-ventilated indoor space. Placing them near a refrigerator vent or fan can help accelerate the drying process. Opening the shoe tongue improves airflow and aids in drying.

By following these tips, you can achieve clean shoes and extend their lifespan. 

What Not to Do When Washing Shoes in the Washer

While washing your shoes in the washing machine can be simple, there are certain precautions to remember. 

1. Avoid washing fabrics like leather or suede in the machine, as it can damage their appearance and texture.
2. Do not use warm or hot water during the wash cycle. High temperatures can warp shoes, damage fabrics, and cause colors to bleed.
3. Avoid using powder detergent, as it may not dissolve properly and can become trapped in your shoes.
4. Remove the laces and insoles before placing the shoes in the washer. Insoles should be hand-washed, while laces can either be hand-washed or placed in a separate laundry bag or pillowcase.
5. Never put your shoes in the dryer. Dryer heat can harm the adhesive and alter the shape of your shoes.

Alternatives to Washing Shoes

If you’re hesitant about using the washing machine or your shoes aren’t machine-friendly, you can try these alternative methods to clean them by hand:

1. Hand-washing fabric shoes: Create a solution using one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and two cups of warm water. Scrub the fabric shoes with the solution and a toothbrush, then dry them with a paper towel. You can also use this mixture to clean the insoles.
2. Using vinegar for leather shoes: Mix distilled white vinegar and cold water in equal parts. Dampen a cloth with the solution and wipe down your leather shoes. Allow them to air-dry afterward.

Which Shoes Are Machine Washable?

Knowing which types of footwear can handle the process of machine-washing shoes is essential. While some boots are suitable for machine washing, others require special care or should be cleaned by hand. 

Machine Washable Shoes:

1. Canvas Shoes: Shoes made from canvas are highly washable and can withstand a washing machine’s agitation. Canvas sneakers, slip-ons, and casual shoes are great candidates for machine washing.
2. Nylon Shoes: Shoes constructed with nylon materials are generally safe for machine washing. They are known for their durability and ability to maintain shape even after being laundered.
3. Cotton Shoes: Many cotton shoes, such as fabric sneakers and espadrilles, can be safely washed in a washing machine. Just make sure to follow the care instructions for specific washing recommendations.
4. Polyester Shoes: Polyester is a resilient material that can endure machine washing without losing shape or color. Shoes made from polyester blends are often suitable for machine cleaning.

Non-Machine Washable Shoes:

1. Leather Shoes: Leather shoes require special care and should not be washed in a washing machine. Instead, use a damp cloth, leather cleaner, or conditioner to remove dirt and stains.
2. Suede Shoes: Suede is a delicate material that water can damage. To clean suede shoes, use a suede brush or eraser to remove dirt and stains gently.
3. Rubber and Vinyl Shoes: Shoes made of rubber or vinyl should not be machine washed, as the harsh agitation can cause damage. Instead, wipe them clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
4. Sports Shoes with Cleats: Shoes with rubber or metal cleats, such as soccer or baseball, should not be machine washed. These shoes require specialized cleaning to preserve their performance and durability.

Remember, proper care and maintenance are key to extending the life of your shoes and keeping them looking their best for more reading about Gents sports shoes.

Will Shoes Break the Washing Machine?

When appropriately washed, shoes are unlikely to cause any damage to the washing machine. However, to ensure their safety and prevent potential damage, placing the shoes in a mesh garment bag or pillowcase before washing is advisable. 

This helps to contain the shoes and prevent them from forcefully tumbling inside the drum, reducing the risk of harming the machine.

Do Shoes Shrink in the Washing Machine?

Shoes can shrink in the washing machine, especially if exposed to hot water. To avoid shrinkage, always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Washing shoes on a cold water cycle is generally recommended, which helps prevent shrinking and maintains their original size and shape. 

Also, avoid using high heat settings in the dryer, as this can cause shoes to shrink.

Can I Put Sneakers in the Washing Machine with Clothes?

While it is possible to wash sneakers in the washing machine along with clothes, it is generally recommended to wash them separately. To prevent any potential color bleeding or damage to the clothes, it’s advisable to clean the shoes with a few old towels or garments instead.

This helps balance the load and reduces the likelihood of dye transfers or stains that can occur with newer fabrics.

What Setting Should I Use to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine?

Select a gentle cycle with cold water to wash shoes in the washing machine. Opt for a slow or no-spin setting to minimize any potential damage to the boots. Removing the laces and insoles and placing the shoes in a closed mesh bag or pillowcase before washing is important. 

Always refer to the care tag or manufacturer’s instructions for specific washing recommendations.

For more about Sports Gear, and for more about Shoes.

Bottom Line:

Washing sports shoes in the washing machine can be a practical and efficient method to keep them clean and fresh. You can maintain your athletic footwear and extend its lifespan by following the recommended steps and taking necessary precautions. Learn more about Perfect Footwear: Running Shoes for Heel Strikers

Frequently Discussed Topics:

Q. What are the best ways to clean sports shoes in a washing machine? A. Start by removing dirt or debris from your shoes with a brush and then place it into a laundry bag (or pillow case) to prevent the laces from getting tangled up with other items.

Q. How often should sports shoes be washed? A. It depends on how often they are used, but most of the time, shoes can be washed after one to two weeks. 

Q. How do I protect my sneakers from premature wear? A. It all begins with proper maintenance. As a rule of thumb, we recommend cleaning your sneakers at least once a week and storing them in an airy and cool place.

 Q. Why do I need to use detergent when washing my sports shoes? A. Detergent is necessary because it helps to remove dirt and other contaminants from the material. We recommend using a detergent that contains softeners, which will help preserve the elasticity of the shoe.

 Q. Can I wash my sneakers in the washing machine? A. Yes, sneakers can be washed in the washing machine. Make sure you set it to the correct temperature and wash it together with other delicate items.

 Q. Should I use detergent when washing sneakers by hand? A. Yes, if you want to clean it properly.

Q. What are the best detergents for cleaning sports shoes in a washing machine? A. We recommend using a detergent with a softener for washing sneakers in the machine.

 Q. Can I use bleach to clean my sneakers? A. Never use bleach on your sneakers! Bleach will ruin their color, the uppers, and may even discolor the soles!

Q. What are the best detergents for sports shoes in a washing machine? A. We recommend using a detergent with softener for washing sneakers i