Can Shoes Be Put In The Washing Machine?
Generally speaking, shoes made of canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester can be washed in a washing machine. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check the care label. Always check the care label on your shoes before washing them. This will tell you if they are machine-washable and what settings to use.
- Remove the laces and insoles. The laces and insoles can be washed separately in the washing machine.
- Use a mesh laundry bag. A mesh laundry bag will help to protect your shoes from damage.
- Wash on a cold, gentle cycle. A cold, gentle cycle will help to prevent your shoes from shrinking or fading.
- Air dry your shoes. Do not put your shoes in the dryer, as this can damage them.
Here are some of the disadvantages of washing shoes in the washing machine:
- The shoes may be damaged by the agitation of the washing machine.
- The shoes may shrink or fade.
- The shoes may lose their shape.
- The shoes may become misaligned.
- The shoes may become dirty again quickly.
If you are not sure whether or not your shoes can be washed in the washing machine, it is best to err on the side of caution and hand-wash them.
Here are some tips for hand-washing shoes:
- Fill a sink or bucket with warm water and mild detergent.
- Soak the shoes in the solution for 30 minutes.
- Scrub the shoes with a soft brush.
- Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water.
- Air dry the shoes.
Hand-washing your shoes may take more time and effort, but it is the safest way to clean them and prevent damage.
What’s the best way to dry shoes after washing them in a machine?
The best way to dry shoes after washing them in a machine is to air dry them. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes.
- Stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb the moisture.
- Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, such as a closet or on a drying rack.
- Check the shoes periodically and replace the newspaper or paper towels as needed.
- Allow the shoes to dry completely before wearing them again.
Here are some additional tips for drying shoes after washing them in a machine:
- Avoid using direct sunlight, as this can damage the shoes.
- Do not use a hair dryer or other heat source, as this can also damage the shoes.
- Be patient. It may take several days for the shoes to dry completely.
If you are in a hurry to dry your shoes, you can try using a shoe dryer. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as using a shoe dryer incorrectly can damage your shoes.
Here are some of the things you should avoid doing when drying shoes after washing them in a machine:
- Do not put your shoes in the dryer. The heat from the dryer can damage the shoes and the glue that holds them together.
- Do not leave your shoes wet for too long. This can cause mold and mildew to grow.
- Do not put your shoes in direct sunlight. The sun’s rays can fade the colors of your shoes and damage the materials.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your shoes dry properly and last for many years to come.
Are there any types of shoes that should never be washed in a washing machine?
Yes, there are some types of shoes that should never be washed in a washing machine. These include:
- Leather shoes: Leather shoes can be damaged by the water and detergent in the washing machine. The leather can shrink, fade, or crack.
- Suede shoes: Suede shoes can also be damaged by the water and detergent in the washing machine. The suede can become matted and lose its nap.
- Vinyl shoes: Vinyl shoes can become warped and misshapen in the washing machine.
- Rubber shoes: Rubber shoes can be damaged by the detergent in the washing machine. The rubber can become brittle and crack.
- Shoes with metal parts: Shoes with metal parts, such as buckles or zippers, can damage the washing machine. The metal can scratch the drum or the other clothes in the wash.
- Shoes with delicate fabrics: Shoes with delicate fabrics, such as silk or satin, can be damaged by the water and detergent in the washing machine. The fabrics can shrink, fade, or tear.
If you are not sure whether or not your shoes can be washed in the washing machine, it is best to err on the side of caution and hand-wash them.
Here are some tips for hand-washing shoes:
- Fill a sink or bucket with warm water and mild detergent.
- Soak the shoes in the solution for 30 minutes.
- Scrub the shoes with a soft brush.
- Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water.
- Air dry the shoes.
Hand-washing your shoes may take more time and effort, but it is the safest way to clean them and prevent damage.
How often should I consider washing my shoes to keep them clean and odor-free?
The frequency with which you should wash your shoes depends on a few factors, including the type of shoe, how often you wear them, and how active you are.
- Type of shoe: Some shoes, such as sneakers, are more likely to get dirty and smelly than others, such as dress shoes. You may need to wash sneakers more often, especially if you wear them for workouts or other activities that make them sweaty.
- How often you wear them: If you wear your shoes every day, you will need to wash them more often than if you only wear them occasionally.
- How active you are: If you are active and sweat a lot, you will need to wash your shoes more often than if you are not as active.
In general, you should wash your shoes at least once a month. However, if you find that they are getting dirty or smelly more often, you may need to wash them more frequently.
Here are some tips for keeping your shoes clean and odor-free:
- Remove the insoles and laces from your shoes and wash them separately.
- Wipe down the outside of your shoes with a damp cloth.
- Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight.
- Use a shoe deodorizer.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your shoes clean and odor-free for longer.
Resources
- https://www.ahs.com/home-matters/quick-tips/can-you-wash-shoes-in-washing-machine/
- https://www.tru.earth/Putting-Your-Shoes-in-the-Washing-Machine
- https://www.reddit.com/r/RunningShoeGeeks/comments/10jiym0/advice_for_putting_shoes_through_the_washer/
- https://www.electrolux.com.sg/blog/put-shoes-in-washing-machine/
- https://www.wikihow.com/Wash-Shoes-in-a-Washing-Machine
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