Can you put shoes in the washer? What about putting shoes in the dryer? The answer is yes, and below is a quick guide on how to clean your shoes in the washing machine.
If you’ve ever stared down at your feet while wearing a particularly well-loved (read: dirty) pair of sneakers, you’ve probably wondered, “how do I wash these shoes without ruining them?” Because they bear the brunt of any active lifestyle, shoes can quickly become a home for dirt, bacteria, and odors.
The quick answer, is yes - When your favorite pair of shoes or sneakers are getting a little funky, it's okay to put them in the washer and let a machine do your dirty work for you. However, cleaning your shoes in the washing machine is not as simple as throwing them in. Like regular laundry, you can take steps to protect your shoes in the wash and increase the likelihood of a squeaky-clean outcome.
American Home Shield® is here to walk you through how to clean your shoes in the washer properly so you can avoid damaging them or your washing machine.
Before washing shoes in the washing machines, check the tags (usually found under the tongue of the shoe) or the manufacturer’s website for recommended cleaning steps. Even if you think the shoes are washable, some aren’t made to go in the washing machine. Likewise, certain materials require specific hand washing methods. Make sure the shoe type and material are fit for your washing machine.
Take out the laces and insoles from your shoes. Shoe laces can become tangled in the washing machine, and many insoles are delicate, so removing them is best.
Clean the laces and insoles by hand by scrubbing them with dishwashing soap or liquid detergent and a soft brush or rag. Allow them to air-dry completely before you return them to their rightful place. Alternatively, you can place the laces in a mesh garment bag along with your sneakers.
Use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris on the soles of your shoes.
Place the shoes in the washing machine. Pro tip: Washing shoes with several old towels balances the load, prevents your shoes from banging around during the cycle, and ensures your shoes won’t be impacted by new-towel dye.
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Remember that a delicate, cold-water cycle is best and will help keep your fabric shoes free from harm. Avoid powder detergent, which can get caught in shoe soles and shoelace holes. Instead, use liquid detergent or laundry pods.
After the wash cycle is complete, it’s time to dry your shoes.
You really shouldn’t be drying your shoes in the dryer. Dryer temperatures can damage the glue that holds shoes together. High heat can even cause certain fabric sneakers to shrink, permanently warping your shoes and affecting their fit and performance.
The best way to dry your shoes is to find a cool, sunny, and well-ventilated space and leave them there. Stuff some small towels inside your shoes to help them keep their shape as they dry. Generally, you should only wash your shoes when you can allow enough time for them to air-dry completely. Otherwise, you are just creating a moist environment for funky bacteria to thrive. If you need to speed things up, you can aim a fan or blow-dryer at your sneakers.
Once your shoes are clean and dry, add the soles and laces back in. Then, rock your spotless kicks.
What NOT to do when washing shoes in the washer
While cleaning your shoes in the washing machine may seem simple, there are several things you must steer clear of during the process. Here is a quick summary of the main things to avoid:
It’s normal to feel apprehensive about putting your shoes in the washing machine. If your shoes aren’t washer-friendly, or you simply don’t want to risk damaging them, try one of the following methods to wash them by hand:
Using your washer to make your shoes squeaky clean is easy and efficient, but it doesn’t come without risks. When learning to wash shoes in the washing machine, be mindful of factors like shoe material, wash cycle type, and appropriate drying methods. If you are ever in doubt, wash them by hand.
It’s also important to perform washer and dryer maintenance to ensure that your machine stays in tip-top shape for all your laundry needs. Consider signing up for a home warranty plan that includes warranty coverage for your washer and dryer. A washing machine warranty helps ensure peace of mind and budget protection. American Home Shield helps cover the cost to repair or replace covered parts of your home systems and appliances when they break down due to everyday wear and tear. So, if you need help draining water from the washing machine or the appliance is broken, simply submit a service request, pay your service fee, and we’ll send a Pro to your home to diagnose the issue.
See the plan agreement for coverage details, including service fees, limitations and exclusions. Charges for non-covered items may apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of shoes can I put in the washing machine?
Shoes made from canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester should be fine to throw in the washing machine. Most sneakers and tennis shoes are made from fabrics that can take the rough and tumble rigors of a machine wash.
Certain shoes don’t belong in the washer, like those made from leather, suede, rubber, and vinyl. Hand-wash or spot-clean them instead of putting them in the washing machine.
Do I need to add disinfectant to my wash cycle?
This is a matter of personal preference. Adding disinfectant to the wash cycle is wise if your shoes are particularly pungent and you are prone to suffering from fungal infections like athlete’s foot. To prevent nasty bacteria and fungi, try adding a pine oil disinfectant at the beginning of the wash cycle. The disinfectant needs to be at least 80 percent pine oil, and you’ll need to run the washer on a warm water cycle for it to be effective.
Which type of washing machine is best for washing shoes?
Front-load vs. top-load washers: Which one reigns supreme for your footwear? Front-load washing machines tend to be gentler and have better controls on spin and temperature.
Most top-load washing machines clean by agitation, which can be rough on your clothes. The exception is impeller models, which don’t feature a central column (the agitator). Impellers tend to be rare, but they are gentler on your clothes and shoes. This isn’t to say you should ban your shoes from your top loader—if you use your best judgment and stick to a delicate cycle with cold water, your shoes should be fine.
AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.
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