How To Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Washing sneakers in a washing machine can be a convenient way to clean your favorite kicks, but doing it incorrectly can damage them. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step process to ensure your sneakers come out clean and in good condition.
Preparing Your Sneakers for the Wash
Before tossing your sneakers into the washing machine, there's some essential prep work to do. This will help protect your shoes and your machine.
1. Remove Loose Dirt and Debris:
This is crucial. Use a brush—an old toothbrush works great—to remove excess dirt, mud, or pebbles from the surface of your sneakers. Pay close attention to the grooves and crevices. Don't skip this step! Leaving large debris in the machine can damage both your sneakers and the washing machine.
2. Remove Insoles:
Most sneakers have removable insoles. Take them out. Wash these separately, either by hand or in a mesh laundry bag in the washing machine on a delicate cycle. This allows for better cleaning of both the insole and the shoe itself.
3. Loose Laces & Ornaments:
Remove laces completely. Wash these separately, too. If your sneakers have any delicate ornaments or embellishments, consider removing them or protecting them with a mesh laundry bag. This prevents damage during the wash cycle.
4. Protect Your Washing Machine:
Place your sneakers in a mesh laundry bag. This helps contain any loose debris and protects your washing machine from damage. A pillowcase can work in a pinch, but a mesh laundry bag is ideal.
Washing Your Sneakers: Machine Settings
Now, it's time to wash your sneakers. The settings you choose are crucial for preserving your shoes' shape and longevity.
1. Choose the Right Cycle:
Select the delicate or gentle cycle. This will use a slower spin speed and gentler agitation, minimizing the risk of damage to your sneakers.
2. Water Temperature:
Use cold water. Hot water can damage certain materials and cause the colors to fade.
3. Detergent:
Use a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the materials and colors of your sneakers. A liquid detergent is generally preferred over powder.
4. Avoid Fabric Softener:
Fabric softener can leave a residue on your sneakers, reducing their breathability and potentially attracting more dirt. Skip the fabric softener entirely.
Drying Your Sneakers
Drying your sneakers properly is just as important as washing them.
1. Air Drying is Best:
After washing, remove your sneakers from the washing machine and remove them immediately from the mesh bag. Stuff them with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Then, allow them to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the materials.
2. Avoid the Dryer:
Never put your sneakers in the dryer. The high heat can damage the materials, cause shrinking, and even melt certain parts of the shoe.
Sneaker-Specific Considerations
- Canvas Sneakers: Generally hold up well to machine washing.
- Leather Sneakers: Require more careful cleaning and may be better hand-washed or professionally cleaned.
- Suede Sneakers: Should never be machine-washed. Clean these by hand with a specialized suede cleaner.
Conclusion
Washing sneakers in the washing machine can be a simple and effective cleaning method when done correctly. By following these steps, you can keep your sneakers clean and looking their best for longer. Remember, preparation, the right settings, and proper drying are key to success. Happy cleaning!
