Staring at my mud-caked hiking boots after that disastrous camping trip, I had a moment of sheer desperation. Could I just… toss them in the washing machine? It felt like a nuclear option, a desperate plea to the laundry gods.
Honestly, I’ve wasted more money on “shoe cleaners” that do jack squat than I care to admit. The ones with the tiny brushes and the weird-smelling foam? Complete rip-offs. After my fourth attempt at a DIY cleaning solution that left my favourite sneakers looking worse than before, I was ready to risk the washing machine.
So, can you put shoes in the washing machine? It’s not a simple yes or no. It depends. A lot.
My Washing Machine Shoe Horror Story
Let’s get this out of the way: I once tried to wash a pair of suede loafers. Suede. In a washing machine. I know, I know. It seemed like a good idea at the time, a shortcut to avoid that painstaking hand-cleaning process. I pictured them coming out pristine, ready for a night out. Instead, they came out stiff, misshapen, and with a texture that felt like dried-out cardboard. The fuzzy nap was gone, replaced by a sad, matted fuzz. I swear I could hear them weeping in the dryer. That little experiment cost me a good $180 and a whole lot of regret. Never again with the delicate stuff. It’s a lesson learned the hard, expensive way.
[IMAGE: A pair of severely damaged suede loafers looking stiff and matted after being washed.]
What the Experts (supposedly) Say
Everyone and their dog on the internet seems to have an opinion. Some scream ‘NEVER!’, citing damage to the machine and the shoes. Others say ‘Sure, if you do it right!’ The truth, as always, is somewhere in the murky middle. Apparently, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommends cleaning shoes regularly to prevent issues, but they don’t specifically endorse machine washing as a go-to method. It’s more about general hygiene. (See Also: How To Wear Hiking Boots With Jeans)
This is where things get complicated. Some materials are absolute no-gos. Think leather, suede, anything with delicate embellishments like sequins or beads, or shoes with glued-on soles that might decide to make a break for it. These are the landmines you need to avoid.
The ‘yes, Probably’ Shoe Types
Okay, so what *can* go for a spin? Generally, most athletic shoes, canvas sneakers, and even some casual fabric shoes are fair game, provided they aren’t ancient or falling apart already. I’ve had decent luck with my old running shoes and some beat-up Vans. The key is preparation. First, bang out as much loose dirt and debris as humanly possible. Seriously, take them outside and give them a good whack against a curb. You don’t want that grit grinding away inside your machine.
Then, remove the laces and insoles. Wash those separately. Laces can get tangled and torn, and insoles often have special cushioning or arch support that can be ruined by the agitation. For the shoes themselves, use a gentle cycle, cold water, and a mild detergent. Absolutely no bleach. The noise they make during the cycle is actually quite alarming; it’s a rhythmic thudding, punctuated by the occasional clatter of a rogue eyelet hitting the drum.
Here’s a comparison of shoe types and their washing machine suitability:
| Shoe Type | Machine Washable? | My Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Running Shoes (Synthetic Mesh) | Yes, with caution | Good to go, just follow prep steps. |
| Canvas Sneakers (e.g., Converse, Vans) | Yes, generally | Usually fine, but watch out for glue. |
| Leather Dress Shoes | Absolutely Not | Will turn them into stiff bricks. |
| Suede Boots/Shoes | A Catastrophic Mistake | Don’t even think about it. |
| Shoes with Built-in Electronics | Never | Unless you want a very expensive paperweight. |
| Flip-Flops (Rubber/Plastic) | Yes, with caution | Might get a bit warped, but generally survive. |
The Drying Dilemma
This is almost as important as the washing. Never, ever, EVER put your shoes in the hot dryer. That’s a one-way ticket to shrinkage, warping, and glue failure. Air drying is your best friend. Stuff them with old towels or newspaper to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. You’ll be surprised how much water comes out, even after the spin cycle. It’s like squeezing a wet sponge that keeps on giving.
I usually let them sit near a fan for at least 48 hours. Sometimes longer, depending on the thickness of the material and humidity. You want them bone dry before you even think about wearing them again. Waiting feels like an eternity, especially when you’re eager to get back out there, but rushing it is how you end up with that lingering mildew smell that no amount of Febreze can defeat. (See Also: How To Wear Mens Jeans With Boots)
[IMAGE: A pair of running shoes being stuffed with newspaper and air-drying on a rack.]
My Contrarian Take: Hand Washing Is Overrated (sometimes)
Everyone bangs on about the sanctity of hand washing for shoes. And for delicate materials, sure, it’s necessary. But for my everyday gym shoes? Honestly, if I can get away with a machine wash and avoid spending 30 minutes scrubbing each individual tread with an old toothbrush, I’m going to do it. The key is knowing your shoe and being willing to accept a small risk for a huge time saving. I’ve probably washed my gym sneakers in the machine about ten times now, and they’re still kicking. It’s not as delicate as some articles make it out to be, provided you’re not washing silk slippers.
People Also Ask
Can You Wash Shoes with Glue?
It’s risky. While many modern athletic shoes use stronger adhesives, high heat from a washing machine or dryer can weaken them. If the glue is already looking a bit soft or degraded, it’s best to avoid machine washing altogether. You might end up with parts of your shoe detaching.
Can I Wash My Sneakers with Detergent?
Yes, but use a mild one. Harsh detergents can strip color and damage the fabric. A small amount of a gentle laundry detergent or even a specialized shoe cleaner is best. Avoid anything with bleach, as it can cause yellowing and weaken materials.
How Do I Get the Smell Out of Shoes?
Beyond washing, regular airing out is key. Baking soda sprinkled inside overnight can absorb odors. For persistent smells, consider UV shoe sanitizers or commercial odor-eating sprays. Sometimes, it’s just time for new shoes if the smell is deeply ingrained. (See Also: How To Wear Jeans With Boots For Guys)
Can You Put Shoes in a Cold Wash?
A cold wash is generally the safest bet. It minimizes the risk of colors bleeding, shrinking, or adhesives weakening compared to hot water. Most shoe materials can handle cold water just fine.
[IMAGE: Close-up of a shoe’s sole showing strong adhesive bonding.]
Verdict
So, can you put shoes in the washing machine? For most athletic shoes and durable canvas sneakers, yes, with proper preparation and a gentle cycle. It’s not the forbidden ritual many make it out to be, but you absolutely have to know your material.
My biggest takeaway? Don’t put anything remotely delicate or expensive in there unless you’re prepared to gamble and potentially lose. Suede loafers, leather boots, or anything with a glued-on heel are off-limits. Seriously, just don’t.
If you’re looking to clean your everyday gym shoes and you’ve bang ed out all the loose grit and removed the laces, a cold, gentle wash is probably fine. But if you’re still unsure, or if your shoes have seen better days already, stick to the old-fashioned hand wash. Sometimes, the extra effort is just worth it to avoid that sinking feeling of expensive regret.
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