Can You Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine? The Ultimate Guide (+ Safer Alternatives!)

Intro: Washing Shoes in a Machine? Proceed with Caution!

Hey sneakerheads and busy bees! We’ve all been there: your favorite kicks are filthy, and hand-scrubbing feels like a chore. But before you hit that “start” button, let’s talk facts: Most shoes shouldn’t go in the washer—unless you’re cool with risking both your shoes and your machine** 210. Here’s the lowdown on when it’s safe, when it’s a hard NO, and how to clean shoes like a pro!

1. Can You Actually Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?

The Short Answer: Sometimes, but with major caveats.

• ✅ Safe for: Soft fabric shoes (e.g., canvas sneakers, cloth ballet flats), rubber sandals, or machine-washable shoes labeled as such10.

• 🚫 Avoid: Leather, suede, boots, shoes with glued soles, or anything with heavy embellishments (RIP, bedazzled kicks)28.

• ⚠️ Risks:

  • Shoe Damage: Hard soles can bang against the drum, causing cracks or loosening glue311.

  • Washer Damage: Dirt and debris can clog filters or scratch the drum411.

  • Gross Factor: Shoes carry bacteria that might linger in your washer, contaminating clothes later510.

Pro Tip: If you must machine-wash, use a mesh laundry bag, toss in towels for cushioning, and choose a gentle cycle with cold water710.

2. How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine (If You Dare)

Follow these steps to minimize disaster:

1. Prep the Shoes:

   • Remove laces and insoles (wash separately)8.

   • Brush off loose dirt with an old toothbrush7.

2. Bag ‘Em Up: Use a sturdy mesh laundry bag to protect both shoes and machine710.

3. Add Buffers: Throw in a few towels to reduce noise and impact2.

4. Choose Settings: Gentle cycle, cold water, no spin (to prevent warping)1011.

5. Skip the Dryer: Air-dry shoes away from direct sunlight to avoid shrinkage or yellowing38.

Fun Fact: Some front-load washers are gentler than top-loaders for shoes—but still not ideal11.

3. Safer Alternatives to Machine Washing

Not worth the risk? Try these methods instead:

A. Hand-Washing 101

• Tools Needed: Soft brush (old toothbrush works!), mild soap, and lukewarm water.

• Steps:

  1. Mix soap + water, scrub gently in circular motions.

  2. Rinse with a damp cloth (no soaking!)8.

  3. Stuff shoes with paper towels to absorb moisture and maintain shape8.

B. Spot-Cleaning Magic

• For Stains: Dab a mix of baking soda + water, let sit, then wipe8.

• White Shoes Yellowing? Rub with toothpaste (non-gel) and rinse—bye-bye stains8!

C. Specialized Cleaners

• Suede/Nubuck: Use a suede eraser or foam cleaner—never water8.

• Leather: Wipe with a damp cloth + leather conditioner8.

4. Critical Dos and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Check the care label first10.

• Air-dry shoes in a well-ventilated area3.

• Clean shoes regularly to prevent deep stains8.

❌ DON’T:

• Use bleach or hot water (unless you want discolored kicks)10.

• Soak shoes—this weakens glue and fibers8.

• Dry near heaters or in direct sun (warping alert!)8.

5. When to Say “Nope” to DIY Cleaning

If your shoes are…

• High-end leather or designer: Take them to a professional cleaner.

• Antique or sentimental: Don’t gamble—preserve their legacy!

• Super stinky: Try odor-neutralizing sprays or freeze them overnight (yes, really!)8.

Final Verdict: To Wash or Not to Wash?

Machine-Washing = Risky Flex. Save it for cheap, sturdy shoes you don’t mind replacing. For everything else, hand-washing or spot-cleaning is the way to go. Your shoes (and washer) will thank you!

TL;DR:

• 🚿 Machine-washable? Only if they’re soft, simple, and not your prized Jordans.

• ✋ Hand-wash: Safer, cheaper, and keeps shoes looking fresh longer.

• 🌞 Air-dry always: Sunlight = enemy of shoe longevity!

Stay clean, stay stylish! 👟✨