Shoes get dirty fast. Dust, mud, sweat, and odor build up from daily use, workouts, or outdoor walking. Hand washing shoes can take time and effort, so many people prefer using a washing machine. But washing shoes the wrong way can damage their shape, loosen glue, or even harm the washer.
This guide explains how to wash shoes in washing machine safely and correctly. You will learn which shoes can be washed, how to prepare them, the best washing settings, and how to dry them without damage. When done right, machine washing can keep your shoes clean, fresh, and long-lasting.
Is It Safe to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?
Yes, it is safe to wash many types of shoes in a washing machine, as long as you use the correct method.
Most modern shoes are made with fabric, mesh, and foam materials that can handle water. However, shoes are heavier than clothes and have hard soles. During spinning, they can bang against the drum, make loud noise, and lose their shape if not protected.
That is why preparation, gentle settings, and proper protection are essential when washing shoes in a washer.
Which Shoes Can Be Washed in a Washing Machine?
Shoes That Are Usually Safe to Machine Wash
These shoes can be washed using gentle settings:
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Sneakers
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Running shoes
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Gym shoes
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Canvas shoes
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Kids’ school shoes
They are mostly made from fabric and mesh that clean well in water.
Shoes You Should Not Wash in a Machine
Avoid machine washing:
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Leather shoes
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Suede shoes
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Shoes with heavy decorations
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Shoes with glued stones or metal parts
Water and spinning can damage these materials. Hand cleaning is safer for them.
Preparing Shoes Before Washing
Remove Laces and Insoles
Always remove laces and insoles before washing. Laces can tangle, and insoles absorb 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 separately.
Brush Off Dirt and Mud
Before putting shoes into the washing machine, remove loose dirt. Tap the shoes together outside and use a soft brush to clean the soles and edges. This keeps your washer clean and helps detergent work better.
How to Protect Shoes in the Washing Machine
Use a Mesh Laundry Bag (Recommended)
The safest way to wash 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 protects shoes while allowing water and detergent to circulate freely for deep cleaning.
If you want detailed instructions, your earlier guides on how to wash shoes in washing machine with mesh bag explain this method step by step.
If You Don’t Have a Mesh Bag
When a bag is not available, follow the emergency method explained in your article on how to wash shoes in washing machine without mesh bag:
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Wrap shoes in old towels or a pillowcase
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Add extra towels to balance the load
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Use gentle settings only
This method works occasionally but is not ideal for frequent washing.
Best Washing Machine Settings for Shoes
Water Temperature
Use cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can soften glue and cause the sole to separate from the upper part of the shoe.
Wash Cycle
Choose a gentle or delicate cycle. Slow movement and low spin speed help protect shoe shape, stitching, and foam.
Detergent Type
Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and strong chemicals, as they can fade color and weaken fabric.
Balancing the Load Correctly
Never wash shoes alone. Add two or three towels or some soft clothes to the washer. This balances the drum and reduces vibration, noise, and damage during spinning.
How to Dry Shoes After Washing
Never Use a Dryer
Dryers produce heat that can:
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Shrink fabric
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Crack rubber soles
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Loosen glue
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Warp shoe shape
Even low heat can damage shoes over time.
Air Dry the Right Way
Remove shoes from the bag or towels after washing. Stuff them with paper or clean cloth to help them 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.
Common Mistakes When Washing Shoes in a Machine
Using Hot Water
Hot water damages glue and fabric. Cold water is safer and still effective for cleaning.
Fast Spin Cycles
High spin speed can bend soles and stress stitching. Gentle cycles are enough.
Washing Shoes Too Often
Frequent machine washing can shorten shoe life. Wash only when dirt and odor build up.
How Often Should You Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine?
For everyday shoes, washing once every few weeks is enough. For gym or work shoes, wash them when odor becomes noticeable, but always use gentle settings and protection.
Rotating between two pairs of shoes can also reduce how often each pair needs washing.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to wash shoes in washing machine the right way helps remove dirt, sweat, and odor without damaging shoe shape or structure. The key steps are proper preparation, gentle washing settings, and careful air drying.
For regular and worry-free washing, using a dedicated Shoe Washing Bag is the safest choice. It cushions shoes, reduces noise, protects the washer, and makes shoe cleaning easier and more reliable every time.
