How to Clean Shoes in the Washing Machine
Learn safe, step-by-step methods to machine-wash canvas and fabric sneakers. This guide covers prep, cycle settings, drying, and maintenance to keep footwear fresh without damaging materials. Brought to you by Cleaning Tips in 2026.
Washing shoes in the machine is feasible for many sneakers when you prep properly. Use cold water, a gentle cycle, and a mesh bag to protect laces and soles. This guide walks you through the exact steps, protective tips, and drying methods for safe results.
Why Washing Shoes in the Machine Can Be Practical
Washing shoes by hand can be time-consuming, especially if you have several pairs. A modern washing machine, when used with care, can handle many common footwear materials such as canvas, mesh, and certain fabrics. According to Cleaning Tips, washing shoes in the machine can save you time and effort when you follow the right prep steps. The Cleaning Tips team notes that getting the balance of load, temperature, and detergent is essential to minimize wear and keep colors vibrant. Before you start, identify the shoe type by checking the care label; if it says 'hand wash only' or 'dry clean only', avoid machine washing. Also consider glue, embellishments, and insoles; if any component could be damaged by moisture, skip the wash. After washing, proper drying is critical to prevent warping or odor, and to extend the life of the uppers and soles.
What Shoes Are Safe for the Washer (and What to Skip)
Canvas, fabric, and some mesh sneakers are typically safe in a gentle cycle when paired with a mesh bag. Shoes with leather uppers, suede, or delicate glues are generally not recommended for machine washing. The stability of heels and decorative trims can also influence the decision. If you’re unsure, test a small area or consult the care label. Remember that machine washing isn’t a substitute for stubborn stains on leather or suede; consider hand-cleaning those parts instead.
Preparation: Cleaning, Laces, Insoles, and Protection
Start with a dry brush to remove loose dirt from the exterior and soles. Remove laces and insoles and wash them separately or place them in a mesh bag. Use a soft brush to clean seams and midsoles. Protect the shoes by placing them in a mesh laundry bag and balancing with an old towel to absorb impact and reduce drum movement. If the shoes are very dirty, pre-treat stains with a mild solution before washing.
Detergent, Temperature, and Cycle Settings
Choose a mild liquid detergent in a small amount to prevent residue. Use cold or cool water and select a gentle or delicates cycle to protect fabric. Avoid bleach, which can weaken colors and fabrics. Place shoes in a mesh bag and consider adding a second towel to balance the load. If your machine offers a pre-wash or extra rinse option, enable it to remove lingering detergent and dirt.
Drying and Post-Care: Drying to Preserve Shape and Odor Control
Air-drying is essential; never tumble dry leather or suede shoes. Remove insoles after washing and let them dry separately. Lay sneakers on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight. To speed up drying, use a fan or place the shoes near a draft. Once dry, re-lace and reinsert insoles, and consider a light deodorizing spray to keep them fresh.
Troubleshooting Common Issues and Quick Fixes
If colors run, rinse with cold water and wash again on a shorter cycle with less detergent. If the soles or seams separate, stop using the shoes and consult a cobbler for repair rather than forcing another wash. Odors can be controlled with baking soda; sprinkle dry baking soda in the bag after drying and shake out before wearing. If you notice persistent stiffness, consider loosening laces and ensuring proper air-flow during drying.
Quick Maintenance to Keep Shoes Fresh Between Washes
Regular quick cleanups, deodorizing spray, and occasional light hand-cleaning can extend the time between machine washes. Store shoes in a dry, ventilated area and rotate footwear to reduce wear. Cleaning Tips recommends periodic checks of the care labels to ensure machine washing remains safe as materials age.
Tools & Materials
- Mesh laundry bag(Place sneakers inside to prevent banging and protect zippers/laces)
- Old towel(Line the washer with a towel to balance the load and reduce noise)
- Mild liquid detergent(Use a small amount; excess can linger on fabric)
- Soft brush(Pre-clean dirt from soles and seams)
- Shoe deodorizer or baking soda (optional)(Use after washing for odor control)
- Cold water setting on washing machine(Choose cold or cool wash to protect fabrics)
Steps
Estimated time: 45-60 minutes
- 1
Check care label and assess shoe materials
Read the care label and inspect for leather, suede, or glued components. If the label says hand wash only or dry clean only, skip machine washing. Consider the overall condition and any decorations that could be damaged by water.
Tip: When in doubt, err on the side of caution and choose hand cleaning for delicate parts. - 2
Remove laces and insoles
Take out laces and insoles to wash separately or place them in a mesh bag. This ensures a thorough clean and prevents laces from tangling during the cycle.
Tip: Wash laces separately in a mesh bag and air-dry completely before re-lacing. - 3
Pre-clean heavy dirt with a brush
Brush away loose dirt from the exterior and midsoles. A quick pre-clean helps prevent scrub marks during washing and improves overall results.
Tip: Pay attention to seams and tongue areas where grime tends to accumulate. - 4
Protect and load using a mesh bag
Place each pair in a mesh laundry bag to minimize abrasion. Add an old towel to balance the load and reduce drum movement.
Tip: Ensure the bag is fully zipped and the shoes sit flat to avoid crumpling. - 5
Select detergent, temperature, and cycle
Add a mild liquid detergent in a small amount. Set the machine to cold water and a gentle/delicates cycle to protect fabrics and colors.
Tip: Avoid bleach or highly scented detergents that can leave residues. - 6
Run the wash and check results
Start the wash and listen for unusual noises. If you notice binding or banging, pause and re-balance the load. Run a quick rinse if needed to remove detergent.
Tip: If dirt remains, repeat a short, cold cycle with the same settings. - 7
Air-dry thoroughly
Remove shoes from bags and lay them on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. Do not use direct heat or sunlight; dry insoles separately.
Tip: To speed drying, use a fan or set the room to a warm, well-ventilated environment. - 8
Reassemble and scent
Once dry, reinsert insoles and laces. Optional: apply a light sneaker deodorizer or baking soda for odor control.
Tip: Check fit and loosen any stiff areas by gently manipulating the fabric as it dries.
Questions & Answers
Can I machine-wash leather or suede shoes?
Leather and suede are generally not recommended for machine washing, as moisture can damage the finish and glue. If you must, use the gentlest settings and spot-clean the rest.
Leather and suede usually aren’t suitable for washing machines. If you must, opt for a gentle cycle and spot-clean the rest.
What temperature should I use?
Use cold or cool water to protect fabrics, colors, and adhesives. Hot water can cause shrinking and damage to delicate materials.
Cold water is best to protect fabrics and colors.
Should I remove insoles before washing?
Yes. Removing insoles allows for a thorough rinse and reduces odor. Wash insoles separately or by hand if they’re sturdy.
Remove insoles to clean and dry them separately.
How long should shoes air-dry?
Air-dry shoes in a well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours, depending on humidity and material. Do not use direct heat.
Let shoes air-dry for at least a day in a ventilated area.
Will washing damage the glue or soles?
Some glues can soften with moisture. If construction looks fragile, avoid machine washing and opt for spot-cleaning instead.
Moisture can soften some glues; if unsure, avoid machine washing.
What if colors bleed after washing?
If color bleeding occurs, rinse with cold water again and consider washing on a shorter cycle with less detergent or air-drying first, then test colorfastness.
Rinse and test colorfastness if colors bleed.
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The Essentials
- Always check care labels before washing.
- Use a mesh bag and cold water for most fabrics.
- Air-dry completely to avoid warping.
- Avoid machine washing leather, suede, or glued components.
- Reassemble after drying and deodorize if needed.
