Can You Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Many casual shoes can be machine washed, including canvas sneakers, athletic shoes, and fabric flats. Remove laces and insoles, place shoes in a mesh bag, and use a gentle cold cycle. However, leather, suede, dress shoes, and shoes with embellishments should never be machine washed.
Key Takeaways
- Machine-washable shoes are typically made of durable, synthetic materials or canvas.
- Even washable shoes may have glue that weakens over repeated machine washings.
- White canvas shoes may benefit from a baking soda paste pre-treatment for tough stains.
Explanation
Machine-washable shoes are typically made of durable, synthetic materials or canvas. Athletic shoes like running and cross-training shoes often wash well. The key is checking that materials can withstand water immersion and agitation without damage.
To protect shoes during washing, remove laces and insoles to wash separately. Place shoes in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag to prevent them from banging around. Add towels to the load for cushioning. Use cold water and a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
Never put shoes in the dryer - the heat can warp soles, damage glue, and shrink materials. Instead, stuff shoes with paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight.
Shoe construction determines washability more than the outer material. Shoes held together primarily with adhesive (most athletic shoes) tolerate machine washing better than stitched dress shoes, because the agitation can stress stitching more than glue bonds at cold temperatures. However, repeated hot-water washing weakens adhesive over time. Limit machine washing to once every 4-6 weeks at most, and spot-clean between full washes. A mixture of warm water, dish soap, and a soft brush handles most everyday scuffs and stains without the machine.
For white canvas shoes like Converse or Vans, pre-treating with a paste of 2 tablespoons baking soda, 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide, and 1 tablespoon water before machine washing dramatically improves whitening results. Apply the paste with an old toothbrush, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash as usual. Avoid chlorine bleach on shoes with colored stitching or rubber soles, as it can yellow rubber and break down the toe cap adhesive. After washing, stuff with white paper (not newspaper, which can transfer ink to wet fabric) and place in front of a fan rather than in direct sunlight.
Things to Know
- Even washable shoes may have glue that weakens over repeated machine washings.
- White canvas shoes may benefit from a baking soda paste pre-treatment for tough stains.
- Some shoe manufacturers explicitly void warranties if shoes are machine washed.
- Memory foam insoles should be hand-washed only, as machine agitation can break down the foam structure permanently.