Machine washing shoes is easy and straight forward to do, and can help to make your shoes look brand new for longer.
Make sure to remove both your shoelaces as well as your insoles before putting your shoes in the washing machine. Be sure to place your shoes into a mesh laundry bag and use liquid laundry detergent while they are in the wash.
Air dry your shoes and allow them to dry for a day or two before wearing again. You can find ways to dry your shoes without a dryer.
While your cleaning your shoes think about washing your shoelaces.
If your shoes are extremely dirty, you will need to give special attention to them. Especially if you have created creases, because the dirt will sit in the depth of the crease and be extremely hard to get out if baked in.
You can get the creases out of your shoes, or if your ahead of the game, you can learn how to not crease your shoes.
Things You'll Need:
- A washing machine
- A mesh laundry bag
- Liquid laundry detergent
- A damp cloth
- A soft brush
How To Wash Shoes
Carefully follow the directions below to properly wash shoes in the washing machine. If you’re looking to wash New Balance 550 (like the picture below) I made a specific guide.
1. Remove the shoelaces
Remove the shoe laces from the shoes. If you also want to wash your shoelaces at this time, read our step-by-step guide on how to clean shoelaces.
2. Remove the insoles
Remove the insoles from the shoe and wash separately. Insoles are typically made from a very absorbent material, which means that putting them in the washing machine can leave them waterlogged for days. Hand wash shoe insoles by using a damp cloth or soft brush to remove debris.
3. Pre-treat scuffs and stains
Pre-treat scuffs and stains on your shoes that may not come off in the wash. Use a brush or damp rag to remove dirt and debris from your shoes before placing them into the washing machine.
4. Put shoes in washable bag
Put the shoes in a washable laundry bag and place them into the washing machine. You can use a mesh bag or pillowcase if you do not have a laundry bag (usually mesh.)
5. Add liquid detergent with the shoes
Add liquid laundry detergent to the washing machine. Do not use powder laundry detergent and do not use bleach.
6. Delicate wash cycle for your shoes
Adjust the settings on the washing machine to a delicate/gentle wash cycle and wash with cold water (how long does a washer take?).
7. Take shoes out right away to dry
Allow the shoes to air dry in a cool place with lots of sunlight. The ultraviolet light given off by the sun actually helps to brighten whites, if your shoes happen to be white.
8. Dry for 1-2 days
Be patient let shoes dry fully, which may take a day or two, depending on the environment where they are drying.
If you are needing your shoes in the same day as washing them you can also dry the shoes in a dryer. I must warn you that this is not a smart option if you want your shoes to last a long time.
Better understand the drying process with our article how long does a dryer take & how hot does a dryer get.
I would only suggest you do this is the shoes are old and look worn already. You will most likely alter the fabric and could even shrink the shoes.
Once your shoes are clean follow our guides on different ways to lace them up.
Different types of stains will need some extra love from you.
FAQ
Most kinds of shoes are allowed to be washed in the washing machine, however you should avoid putting shoes made of leather, suede, rubber and vinyl in the washing machine.
Washing shoes in the washing machine is a highly effective way to wash them. Hand washing dirty shoes with a damp cloth and soft brush is also a good way to wash shoes.
