How to Wash Gym Shoes in Washing Machine?

Gym shoes go through a lot. Sweat, dirt, dust, and bacteria build up quickly, especially if you wear them regularly for workouts, running, or training. Over time, this causes bad odor and stains that simple wiping cannot remove.

Washing gym shoes in a washing machine can be an effective solution, but only when done correctly. If you use the wrong settings or skip protection, gym shoes can lose shape, weaken at the seams, or even fall apart. This guide explains how to wash gym shoes in washing machine safely, step by step, so they come out clean, fresh, and undamaged.

Is It Safe to Wash Gym Shoes in a Washing Machine?

Yes, most gym shoes can be washed in a washing machine. Modern gym shoes are usually made from mesh, fabric, and foam materials that can handle water. However, they still need gentle handling.

Gym shoes are lighter than casual shoes but often have glued soles and breathable mesh. During fast spin cycles, they can bend, twist, or get damaged if they move freely inside the drum. That is why preparation and protection are very important.

If you already read your guide on how to wash shoes in washing machine with mesh bag, the same safety principles apply here, especially for gym and training shoes.

Which Gym Shoes Are Safe to Machine Wash?

Gym Shoes That Can Be Washed

Most of these are safe with proper care:

• Running shoes

• Training shoes

• Cross-training shoes

• Lightweight gym sneakers

• Kids’ gym shoes

These shoes are usually made from fabric and mesh that dry well after washing.

Gym Shoes You Should Not Wash in a Machine

Avoid machine washing:

• Leather gym shoes

• Suede shoes

• Shoes with hard plastic decorations

• Very expensive or limited-edition shoes

These are better cleaned by hand to avoid damage.

Preparing Gym Shoes Before Washing

Remove Laces and Insoles

Always remove laces and insoles before washing. Laces can tangle, and insoles absorb sweat and water, which slows drying and traps odor.

Wash laces by hand using mild soap. Clean insoles with a damp cloth and let them air dry completely before putting them back.

Brush Off Dirt and Dust

Gym shoes often collect dust, mud, and sand around the sole. Tap the shoes together outside and use a soft brush to clean the outsole and edges. This prevents dirt from spreading inside the washing machine.

How to Protect Gym Shoes in the Washing Machine

Use a Mesh Laundry Bag (Best Option)

The safest way to wash gym shoes is to place them inside a mesh laundry bag. The bag cushions the shoes, reduces noise, and prevents them from hitting the metal drum.

A high-quality Shoe Washing Bag keeps gym shoes protected while allowing water and detergent to flow freely for deep cleaning.

For detailed placement and zipper protection, your earlier article on how to wash shoes in mesh bag explains this process in depth.

If You Don’t Have a Mesh Bag

If a mesh bag is not available, follow the method from your guide on how to wash shoes in washing machine without mesh bag:

• Wrap each shoe in an old towel or pillowcase

• Add extra towels to balance the load

• Use gentle settings only

This should be used as a temporary solution, not for frequent washing.

Best Washing Machine Settings for Gym Shoes

Water Temperature

Always use cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can weaken glue and cause soles to separate from the upper part of the shoe.

Wash Cycle

Select a gentle or delicate cycle. Gym shoes do not need strong agitation. Slow movement protects the mesh and foam structure.

Detergent

Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and strong chemicals, as they can damage fabric and fade colors.

Balancing the Load Properly

Never wash gym shoes alone. Add two or three towels or some soft clothes to the load. This balances the drum and reduces vibration and loud noise during spinning.

How to Dry Gym Shoes After Washing

Never Use a Dryer

Dryers produce heat that can:

• Shrink fabric

• Crack foam

• Loosen glue

• Deform the sole

Always air dry gym shoes.

Air Dry the Right Way

Remove shoes from the bag or towels. Stuff them with paper or clean cloth to help keep their shape. Place them in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Turn them every few hours so all sides dry evenly.

Avoid direct sunlight and heaters, which can harden materials.

Common Mistakes When Washing Gym Shoes

Washing Too Often

Frequent machine washing can shorten the life of gym shoes. Wash them only when dirt and odor build up.

Using Fast Spin Cycles

High spin speed can bend soles and stress stitching. Gentle cycles are enough.

Skipping Protection

Washing gym shoes without a bag or towel padding increases noise and damage risk.

How Often Should You Wash Gym Shoes?

For regular workouts, washing once every few weeks is enough. If you sweat heavily or train outdoors, wash them when odor becomes noticeable, but always use gentle settings and protection.

Rotating between two pairs of gym shoes also helps reduce how often each pair needs washing.

 

Final Thoughts

Learning how to wash gym shoes in washing machine the right way helps remove sweat, dirt, and odor without damaging the shoe structure. The key steps are proper preparation, gentle washing settings, and air drying.

For consistent protection and easier washing, using a dedicated Shoe Washing Bag is the safest choice. It cushions gym shoes, reduces noise, protects their shape, and keeps your washing machine safe, making every wash simple, quiet, and effective.