How To Wash Shoes In a Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Washing shoes in a washing machine can be a convenient way to clean them, but it's crucial to do it correctly to avoid damaging your shoes or your machine. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process for washing various types of shoes effectively.
Preparing Your Shoes for the Wash
Before tossing your shoes into the washing machine, take these preparatory steps:
1. Remove Loose Dirt and Debris:
Use a brush or cloth to remove any loose dirt, mud, or pebbles from your shoes. This prevents larger debris from damaging your washing machine. Don't skip this step!
2. Remove Insoles (if removable):
Many shoes have removable insoles. Take them out and wash them separately, either by hand or in a mesh laundry bag. This ensures thorough cleaning and prevents damage to the insoles. Hand-washing is generally recommended for delicate insoles.
3. Check Shoe Materials:
Canvas, cotton, and nylon shoes generally handle machine washing well. Leather, suede, and delicate materials should be avoided. Always check the care label on your shoes for specific washing instructions. If unsure, hand washing is the safest option.
4. Protect Your Machine:
Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag. This will contain them and prevent them from banging around and damaging the washing machine drum or other clothes. A pillowcase can also work in a pinch.
Washing Your Shoes in the Machine
With your shoes prepared, follow these steps for a successful wash:
1. Choose the Right Cycle:
Select a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Hot water can damage some shoe materials and set stains. Avoid using a high-spin cycle as the vigorous spinning can damage the shoes' structure.
2. Detergent Selection:
Use a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the shoes and fade their color. A liquid detergent is generally preferred over powder.
3. Add Shoes and Wash:
Place the mesh laundry bag containing your shoes into the washing machine. Add any other clothes you're washing (if applicable), ensuring the load isn't overcrowded. Start the washing machine.
4. Air Dry is Best:
Once the wash cycle is complete, do not put your shoes in the dryer. The heat can damage the shoes' shape and materials. Instead, remove them from the mesh bag and allow them to air dry completely. Stuffing them with crumpled newspaper can help them retain their shape while drying.
Specific Shoe Types and Washing Considerations:
- Sneakers: Generally tolerate machine washing well, but always check for specific care instructions.
- Running Shoes: Similar to sneakers, but pay extra attention to the drying process to prevent damage to the cushioning.
- Boots: Generally not recommended for machine washing due to their size and construction. Hand washing is preferred.
- Leather Shoes: Should never be machine washed. Always clean leather shoes by hand using appropriate leather cleaner.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
- Shoes still dirty after washing: Try pre-treating stubborn stains with a stain remover before washing.
- Shoes damaged after washing: This is likely due to using an inappropriate washing cycle or not protecting the shoes adequately.
- Shoes smell bad after washing: Ensure they're completely dry before storing them. Using a shoe deodorizer can help.
By following these steps, you can successfully wash your shoes in the washing machine, keeping them clean and extending their lifespan. Remember that prevention is key, so always clean your shoes regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Remember to always check the care label on your shoes before washing them.
