Can You Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine?

Last Updated on: 17th July 2023, 04:12 pm

Are you curious whether or not you can wash a pair of shoes in the washing machine? Several types of shoes can be washed in the washing machine. However, you can’t wash all types of shoes in the washer.

A pair of shoes is an essential fashion and dressing accessory. However, all types of shoes can’t be washed. So pay close attention to this blog post. We might be able to help you out with washing your shoes in the washing machine.

So can a washing machine wash your shoes? The short answer is yes; you can wash your shoes in the washing machine and bring them back to life.

Whether you wear sneakers, athletic shoes, tennis shoes, sandals, boots, or leather shoes, you always want to keep them clean and shining. The shine does fade away after using them 3 to 4 times. Your shoes look good on you and you want to revive them for future use.

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However, before you throw your shoes in the washing machine, remember that shoes made up of cotton, polyester, and nylon can withstand a washing machine wash, but shoes made up of leather, satin, or silk should not be washed in the washing machine whatsoever.

Tools/Products required to clean up the shoes:

• Washing machine
• Detergent
• Laundry bags
• Old toothbrush
• Old cloth

Steps of washing shoes in the washing machine

The process of washing your shoes in the washing machine may not seem difficult, but it’s vital to know every step. You can’t just take your shoes off and throw them in the washing machine. Here’s the step-by-step guide to washing shoes in the washing machine:

Step 1: Prepare your arsenal

A washing machine is your best bet to remove stains and grime. More assistance is required for heavily stained shoes with layers of dirt and mud. To remove the excess filth and mud, an old toothbrush is preferable. You can also use an old towel to rub off the excess dirt from your shoes.

Step 2: Remove laces

It is a good idea to remove your laces and insoles from your shoes and wash them separately. Separately place your shoes and laces in a laundry bag. An empty pillowcase can be used if you don’t have a laundry bag. You should know that you can wash pillows in the washing machine, but you have to remove the pillowcases before the wash.

Anyway, if you have tried washing your shoes before in a washing machine, you know how noisy it can be, so don’t forget to put in old towels. These towels will act as a barrier, preventing your shoes from slamming into the drum throughout the washing process.

Step 3: Washing the shoes

Since you’re washing shoes in the washing machine, make sure you know every step of the process. Once the laces are removed, start with the wash. Use liquid detergent and cold water to avoid your shoes’ colors from fading. If at all feasible, select a cycle with a low spin speed. Low spin speeds will assist in keeping your washer balanced.

Step 4: Air drying

Remove your shoes and laces from the laundry bags once the wash cycle is over and allow them to air dry. Air-drying your shoes instead of drying them in a dryer is an excellent option.

To absorb excess moisture and help your shoes hold their shape while they dry, fill them with clean rags or paper towels. Place your shoes in a sunny, dry spot where they get plenty of air and sunshine. It would make the drying process faster.

Bonus tip: Disinfect them

Use a disinfectant at the start of the shoe-washing cycle to prevent any fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

How to get rid of the bad odor

No one likes smelly shoes or socks. If you’re sure your socks are fine and the pair of shoes are the culprit, then this section is going to help you. It’s easier than most people think to get rid of a bad odor in your shoes. Use the following suggestions to turn things around for you:

• The insole should be cleaned. Remove the soles and wash them with dishwashing solutions or detergent.
• Allow the soles to air dry before reinstalling them in the shoes.
• Using plenty of bicarbonate, sift the insides of the shoes. Vacuum or shake out the next morning after leaving overnight. The bicarbonate draws moisture while also neutralizing unpleasant odors.
• You can purchase specific silica balls that eliminate the musty odor.
• If your old soles can no longer be refreshed, replace them with a new pair of fresh ones.

Can I dry my shoes in the dryer?

I know drying your shoes in the dryer seems like the fastest method, but it may not turn out to be the best decision. 

High temperatures can harm the glue that keeps them together and certain fabrics or fashion accessories may shrink as a result. You probably know washing machines can shrink clothes. Using the dryer on your shoes can permanently deform them, affecting their fit and function.

The best way is to thoroughly dry your shoes, choose a cool, well-ventilated area and allow them to air dry. However, you can use a ceiling or pedestal fan if available.

Once your pair of shoes is dried, replace the insoles in your shoes and re-tie the laces.

Whatever your strangest shoe stain is, these incredibly simple washing instructions can assist you to clean your shoes.