How To Easily Clean Your Shoes In The Washing Machine | Quick & Easy Guide. Washing your shoes in the washing machine might seem intimidating, but it’s actually surprisingly easy. Moreover, the washing machine can provide a deeper clean than a hand wash. To get your shoes sparkling-clean again, all you need to do is to prepare the shoes, choose the right washing settings, and add the right cleaning products.
How To Easily Clean Your Shoes
How To Easily Clean Your Shoes to Take the laces out of your shoes and stuff them with newspaper. If the laces are heavily soiled, you can even wash them in a separate load. Put the shoes in the machine and make sure to fasten them well to the sides in order to prevent them from banging around. Choose a delicate cycle and cold water, as hot water may damage the material of your shoes. Add a small amount of detergent or a specific cleaner for shoes and run the machine.
How to Clean Shoes in the Washing Machine
Once the cycle ends, carefully remove the shoes and check to see if they need a second round. If so, bring the shoes to the machine and repeat the process. Otherwise, air-dry the shoes on a rack or by stuffing them again with newspapers. By allowing your shoes to dry naturally, you can preserve their shape and lifespan.
Evaluate Your Shoes Before Washing
Before you use the washing machine to clean your shoes, you should make sure it is suitable for the process. Consider your shoes’ material and examine the soles for any wear and tear. Check the shoe tags for any washing instructions from the manufacturer. If in doubt, handwashing is usually the safest and most effective way to clean shoes.
If your shoes are machine washable, there are a few steps you can follow for the best results. Before you add them to the washing machine, remove the laces and any inner soles. Give your shoes a good cleaning with warm water, soap and a brush to remove any dirt and debris. Make sure to wipe away any remaining soap suds with a damp cloth.
Choose the Right Temperature
Once you have prepared your shoes, it is time to choose the right temperature for the washing cycle. If your shoes are made of leather, you will probably want to use a cold water cycle. It is better to be safe than sorry, as the heat of a hot wash can damage delicate leather. For sneakers, you can opt for a few options. For canvas shoes, you can use a cold cycle, while a warm cycle will work best for synthetic materials.
Any cycle you choose should be gentle, as shoes are delicate items How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. Avoid any washing cycle that has an agitator as this can damage the delicate parts of your footwear. When you select the temperature, be sure to also choose a sufficient spin cycle to remove as much excess water as possible.
Take Precautions When Drying
When the washing cycle is complete, it is time to dry your shoes. Before you place them in the dryer, it is a good idea to stuff the shoes with newspaper to help them hold their shape. Make sure the dryer has the correct setting and do not put your shoes in the dryer for too long as this can also cause damage.
It is also important to note that not all shoes can go in the dryer. For example, shoes with rubber soles can become warped in the dryer. In this case, air drying is the best option. If possible, try to avoid direct sunlight when drying your shoes as this can cause the colours of fabrics to fade.
Pre-Treatment and Stain Removal
Stains can be tricky to remove from your shoes. To make the task easier, it is important to act as soon as you notice a stain. Spray the affected area with a pre-treatment detergent and then spot wash with a toothbrush. This should remove any dirt. For tougher stains, such as oil, you can use a baking soda and water paste to help remove the stain. Once the paste dries, you can wipe it away with a damp cloth.
Clean Regularly to Maintain Your Shoes
To keep your shoes in the best condition, try to clean them regularly. This can help to remove any dirt or debris and stop them from wearing out too soon. With the right approach and care, the washing machine can be a very effective way to keep your footwear looking its best.
Sort Out The Materials
Before you jump into the pile of clothes, sort out the materials. Segregate your shoes according to type, rather than mixing in dress shoe, with leisure shoes, and with running shoes. Assess the materials your shoes are made out of. Washable shoes must be made out of all materials that are suitable for a washing machine. If your shoes are made of leather or suede, they must be hand-washed instead. It’s also a good idea to separate light and dark clothing pieces, as well as checking labels for additional washing instructions.
Brush Out The Soles
In order to prevent dirt and other particles from clogging up the washing machine, it is necessary to brush out the soles. Remember to pay extra attention to the front and back of the insoles, as well as any cracks or crevices in the soles. You may want to use an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to get into the smaller spaces. How To Easily Clean Your Shoes, you can use a cloth to wipe off any dirt and debris that might have accumulated on the upper part of the shoe.
Soak The Shoes In Water
Once you have brushed out the soles of the shoes, you can soak them in a basin of warm water with some mild soap. This will help remove any caked on dirt, as well as any odors that may be present. Allow the shoes to soak for at least five minutes before taking them out to rinse them off. Make sure to rinse the soap off completely, as this can build up on the shoes and damage their material.
Place The Shoes In The Machine
Once you have rinsed your shoes, you can then place them in the washing machine. Make sure that you follow the instructions on the washing label and use the gentle or delicate cycle setting. If your shoes have laces, you should remove them and place them in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase. This will help keep them from tangling and will also keep them from getting damaged in the washing machine.
Remove The Shoes From The Machine
Once the washing cycle is complete, you can remove the shoes from the machine. Shake off as much water as you can, and then place the shoes in the dryer. Make sure to use the low heat setting, as high heat can damage the material of the shoes. How To Easily Clean Your Shoes, you may want to add a fabric softener sheet to the dryer, as this will help keep the shoes smelling nice and fresh. Once the shoes are dry, you can lather them up with some shoe polish and brush them off. This will help restore the color and shine of the shoes, making them look good as new.
Putting Shoes in the Washing Machine
The first step of washing your shoes in the washing machine is to put your shoes in the machine. This step can be difficult because of the size of some shoes, so you may have to think carefully about how to fit them in. Remember not to overload the machine, as this can cause damage. If your shoes are too big for the machine, you may have to hand-wash them, which can be more time consuming. Make sure that any laces or strings have been removed from your shoes and that any Velcro straps have been secured.
Choosing a Detergent
When it comes to choosing a detergent, be extra careful. Not all detergents are suitable for machine washing shoes and some could leave your shoes looking worse rather than better. Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, and any other harsh products as this could cause discolouration or other damage. Look for a detergent specifically designed for washing shoes, or use a mild laundry detergent.
Controlling the Washing Cycle
To successfully wash your shoes in the washing machine, you will need to be able to control the washing cycle. Look at the instructions on your washing machine to get an idea of what settings are available and which are best for shoes. Be sure to set a gentle cycle and low spin speed and to use cold water, as this will be better for your shoes than hot.
Checking the Detergent
Before you start the washing cycle How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. A good idea is to check the detergent you are using for anything that could potentially cause discolouration or other damage to your shoes. Try not to use any products containing bleach or other harsh chemicals, as these could ruin the fabric of your shoes. Always read the instructions on the detergent carefully to make sure you are using the right product.
Damage to Your Shoes
Be aware that machine-washing your shoes can cause damage. If you put your shoes in the washing machine without following the steps above, they could be ruined. Avoid using too much detergent, as this can cause fading and discolouration. If you are using the wrong detergent, it could cause fading or the fabric could harden. It is also important to remember that some shoes are hand-wash only and should never be put in a washing machine.
Check Washability Beforehand
Before you start washing your shoes in the washing machine, ensure the shoes are washable. Many types of shoes cannot be put in the washing machine, and if put inside, it may damage the material or the stitching. To check the washability, try to check for the symbols and instructions given on the tag attached to the shoes.
Turn the shoes and look for a small tag or label stating information about the material of the shoes and manufacturer’s instructions. If the label doesn’t state any explicit instructions, then take a test by drying a slightly wet cloth then pressing it against a hidden area of the shoes. If any color is soaking in the cloth, it implies that the shoes are not washable.
Remove Insoles and Laces
Once you are sure that you can proceed with the washing, remove the insoles and the shoelaces from the shoes. Removing these parts will help while cleaning and will save them from the damage of powerful cleaning. To remove the insoles, pull out the insides of the shoes. Use labels and stripes to easily identify each insole. Also, unknot the laces from the holes and keep them in a safe place.
Insert in Mesh Bag for Protection
For protecting your shoes from the powerful cleaning action of a washing machine, insert them in a mesh bag. Some people use a pillowcase, but a bag with small holes will be able to let the hot water and detergent enter the shoes for washing. Even if the material of your shoes gets damaged by mistake, the bag will not let them get damaged any further. For avoiding any kind of discoloration, remove the metal parts of the shoes and wash them separately.
Check Washing Instructions Given
There might be some washing instructions given by the manufacturer of the shoes How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. It is better to check those instructions before you start washing the shoes. It is normal to have separate instructions for reading materials such as leather or cloth so it is better to check that instruction in each case. There are multiple types of cleaning cycles in a washing machine, so it is better to use the mildest cycle available. Detergents can also affect the cleaning process, so use only mild detergents for the shoes for better care.
Dry Shoes and Lace Up
Once the cleaning process is done and the water is drained from the washing machine, take the shoes out of the mesh bag. Before you start wearing them, make sure the shoes are completely dry. Excess water in the material may cause issues later How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. To make the shoes more comfortable and give them a natural look, put up the laces back and try on the shoes.
Check The Material Of Your Shoes
Before you can successfully clean your shoes, first you have to make sure the material it is made from is machine-washable. Certain types of leather and materials like suede can not be machined washed, and must be hand washed. If you aren’t sure, check the tags inside the shoes or read the instructions online so you know what you can do. Always use a low spin cycle and a gentle washing cycle to set the machine too.
Remove Dirt And Dust
Once you know that your shoes are washer safe you can start the process of getting them ready for a spin in the machine. Remove the laces and give the shoes a thorough brushing to remove any dust and dirt that has built up on them. Pay special attention to the tread and soles to make sure they are as clean as possible. Once you are happy that your shoes are as clean as possible you can proceed to the next step.
Put Inside Washbag
Take a mesh wash bag and put the shoes inside. This will help protect them from any damage in the washing machine by reducing the number of buttons and soles that knock up against each other. Make sure you close the washbag and tie it securely closed before you put it inside the machine.
Set The Washing Machine
Once the shoes are safely inside the mesh bag, it’s time to add them to the washing machine. Select the gentle setting and a mild detergent. You should set the machine to a low spin, approximately 600-800 rpm, and also select the cold wash option.
Once The Cycle Is Done
Once the washing cycle is finished, you need to remove the shoes from the washbag. Place the shoes in an area where they will get direct sunlight to help them dry and restore their natural shape. Place some newspaper underneath the shoes, as the newspaper will help absorb the moisture more effectively.
Unless the instructions on the tags inside the shoes call for otherwise, do not place them into a dryer. This could also damage some shoes as strong drying cycles can cause serious damage. Allow them to air dry in direct sunlight until the inside and outside are dry.
Step One – Before You Start
When it comes to cleaning your shoes in the washing machine, it’s important to remember to always check the labels first. Some materials and fabrics can easily be damaged by the use of a washing machine, so check the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure that the materials can indeed handle the wash. Pre-treat any areas which are stained before beginning. This will help break up any stains and make the washing process easier.
Step Two – Preparing Your Shoes
Once you have checked the fabric, it’s time to prepare the shoes. Start by tying laces and undoing the hooks, if there are any, to make sure the fabric can get a thorough clean. Remove any loose pieces of dirt or debris from the soles and uppers of the shoes, then place the shoe in a pillowcase or place it in a mesh bag. This will help to protect the shoe when it is spinning in the washing machine.
Step Three – Adding Detergent
When you have added the shoe to the machine, you need to add the detergent. Make sure that you use a mild, non-abrasive detergent like Woolite or a non-dye detergent. You only need a small amount of detergent – one capful or teaspoon should suffice.
Step Four – Setting The Cycle
The next step is to set the washing cycle How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. It is best to set the washing machine to a delicate cycle – this will help to ensure that your shoe doesn’t damage during the wash. Make sure that the temperature is no more than 40°C.
Step Five – Drying Your Shoes
Once the cycle is finished, it’s important to dry your shoes correctly. Do not put your shoes in the dryer as the heat may damage the fabric. Instead, dry the shoes by placing newspaper or a clean cloth inside the shoe. This helps to absorb any moisture and make sure that the shoes are air-dried.
Finally, once your shoes have been washed and dried, it is important to store them correctly. If you have stored your shoes in a mesh bag, allow them to air dry before putting them away. If you have stored them in a pillowcase, make sure the fabric is completely dry before putting the shoes away. Properly cared-for shoes can last many years, so it is important to take the time to look after them properly.
Can You Really Wash Your Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash your shoes in the washing machine, depending on the material. Most shoes are safe to put in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. However, before you do, you should make sure you check the care instructions on the shoe’s label. Leather and suede should not go in the washing machine, as they can be easily damaged by the powerful spinning and tumbling of the washing machine. Some fabrics, like canvas and nylon, can be machine washed, with the guidance of the care label. Before you even think of tossing your shoes in the washing machine, you should double-check to make sure they are machine washable.
How Should You Prepare Your Shoes For the Washing Machine?
Before washing your shoes in the washing machine, you should take the time to strip them of any dirt, debris, and laces. If you are washing sneakers, take out the shoelaces and place them in a separate, fabric-safe bag. This will ensure that the laces don’t tangle, fray, or become caught in the machine during the spin cycle. You can also use a shoe brush to scrub away any dirt and debris that has built up on the exterior of your shoe. If your shoes have a lot of dirt built up, you might want to start by shaking them vigorously outside to remove as much of the dirt as possible.
What Soap and Cleaning Solutions Are Recommended To Use?
Shoes can be washed with mild detergents, like Woolite, that are typically used for delicates. Avoid using harsh chemical cleansing solutions, like chlorine and bleach, as they can damage leather and suede shoes and cause discoloration.
If the shoes are heavily soiled, and you don’t want to use a traditional cleaning solution, then you can try using a home remedy, like a mixture of white vinegar and coarse salt. Simply mix the two ingredients together and create a paste to scrub and clean the shoe’s exterior. The vinegar works to kill germs and fungi, while the salt helps to scrub away stubborn stains and dirt.
Should Anything Be Put in the Washing Machine With the Shoes?
If you are washing shoes, you should also add an old pillowcase or washer bag to the machine. This will help protect the shoes during the washing cycle and reduce the amount of damage that could occur to the shoe’s material. If you are washing shoes with cleats, then you should also add a few tennis balls to the washing machine. The balls will help to reduce the amount of pounding and agitation that the shoes receive from the washing machine. This will help to keep the shoe’s materials from becoming damaged during the wash cycle.
What Setting Should You Use?
When washing shoes, you should set your machine to a gentle, cold-water cycle. The cold water will help to preserve the shoe’s material, while the gentle setting will ensure that the machine does not cause any damage to the shoes’ shape or material. Before putting the shoes in the machine, you should try to tighten the laces to prevent the shoes from becoming overly stretched during the cycle.
What Kind of Detergent Should Be Used?
The type of detergent you use will depend on the material of your shoes. For white canvas shoes, you can use a mild detergent that is designed for whites. For colored shoes, you should use a color-safe detergent. If the shoes have a lot of dirt and debris built up, then you can use a detergent that is designed for heavy soiling. You should also avoid any detergent that contains bleach, as it can cause damage and discoloration to most shoe materials.
Should You Add Any Fabric Softener To the Washing Machine?
Fabric softener is not recommended for shoes How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. While fabric softener can help to preserve and soften fabrics, it is not designed to be used on shoes. Fabric softener can damage the shoe’s material and can lead to discoloration. It is also important to note that fabric softener can cause a slippery surface on the shoe, which can make the shoe difficult to walk on.
Should You Dry Your Shoes in the Washing Machine?
No, you should not dry your shoes in the washing machine. The heat from the dryer can cause damage to certain types of shoe materials. If you need to dry your shoes quickly, you can put them in
Read the Care Instructions
Before washing any kind of footwear in the washer, you should consult the product label to make sure it is machine-washable. It is especially important to read the apparel tag if you are washing any type of fabric sneaker instead of leather, as the fabric may not hold up as well in the washer.
Remove the Insoles and Laces
You should liberate laces, foam-cushioned insoles, and the other easily removable elements of your shoes before placing them in the washer. This will ensure that the removable parts are not damaged or ruined by the detergent and water. If you plan to keep the laces, you should place them inside a fabric bag or pillowcase prior to washing.
Wash With Detergent and Cold Water
Using a cold setting, fill the washing machine with detergent and water. You can choose a short cycle setting or a delicate cycle setting depending on the type of shoes and how dirty they are. Do not use a harsh detergent, as it could cause the components of your shoes to deteriorate.
Dry the Shoes
The drying process is one of the most important steps, as leaving your shoes damp could cause mildew and other damage. Dry the shoes with a cloth to remove any remaining moisture How To Easily Clean Your Shoes. To stop any possible fading, you should use a cooler setting in the dryer if you are drying them in the machine, or place them in the sun on an outdoor clothesline.
In The Bottom Line
Washing your shoes in the washing machine is a great way to keep them looking their best, but it is important to be careful when doing so. Reading the care instructions and removing the laces, insoles, and other removable parts before washing is important, and you should wash the shoes on a gentle cycle with a light detergent. Finally, make sure to thoroughly dry the shoes after washing. With the right care and maintenance, washing your shoes in the washing machine can help keep them looking like new for longer.
