Can Shoes Go In The Washer?

Written ByKevin K. Shaw Last Updated on: Shoes
Can Shoes Go In The Washer?

Yes, some shoes can go in the washer, but it is important to check the care label first. Shoes made from canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester are usually safe to machine wash. These materials are durable and shouldn’t be damaged by laundry detergent. However, shoes made from leather, suede, rubber, or vinyl should not be placed in the washer. Additionally, delicate shoes with embellishments like beading or sequins may require special care, such as visiting a shoe repair specialist for cleaning.

Here are some tips for washing shoes in the washer:

  • Remove the laces and insoles. Insoles should be hand-washed, while laces should be either hand-washed or kept in a separate laundry bag or pillowcase in the washer.
  • Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This will protect them from getting banged around in the washer and damaging other clothes.
  • Use a cold water cycle on a delicate or gentle setting.
  • Use a mild detergent. Avoid using powder detergent, as it may not dissolve properly and could get caught in the shoes.
  • Do not put the shoes in the dryer. Dryers can damage shoe glue and warp their shape.

Instead, air dry your shoes in a well-ventilated area.

What are the potential risks or damages that can occur if you wash shoes in the washer?

Here are some of the potential risks or damages that can occur if you wash shoes in the washer:

  • Shrinking: Shoes made from natural materials like canvas, cotton, and wool can shrink in the washer, especially if washed on a hot water cycle.
  • Warping: The heat and agitation of the washer can cause the soles of shoes to warp, especially if the shoes are made from plastic or rubber.
  • Glue breakdown: The glue that holds shoes together can break down over time, and washing shoes in the washer can accelerate this process.
  • Damage to embellishments: Shoes with embellishments like beading, sequins, and rhinestones can be damaged in the washer.
  • Transfer of dye: Shoes with bright colors or patterns can bleed dye onto other clothes in the washer.

In addition to these risks, washing shoes in the washer can also damage the washing machine itself. The soles of shoes can scratch the drum of the washing machine, and small objects like shoelaces and insoles can get caught in the agitator.

To avoid these risks, it is important to follow the care instructions on your shoes. If the care label says “spot clean only,” do not wash the shoes in the washer.

If you do decide to wash your shoes in the washer, be sure to take the following precautions:

  • Remove the laces and insoles.
  • Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase.
  • Use a cold water cycle on a delicate or gentle setting.
  • Use a mild detergent. Avoid using powder detergent, as it may not dissolve properly and could get caught in the shoes.
  • Do not put the shoes in the dryer. Dryers can damage shoe glue and warp their shape.

Instead, air dry your shoes in a well-ventilated area.

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Are there any alternative methods for cleaning shoes without using a washer?

Yes, there are a number of alternative methods for cleaning shoes without using a washer. Here are a few tips:

  • Spot cleaning: For minor dirt and grime, you can spot clean your shoes with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Be sure to test the detergent in an inconspicuous area of the shoe first to make sure it does not damage the material.
  • Hand washing: If your shoes are very dirty, you can hand wash them. Fill a sink or basin with warm water and a small amount of detergent. Remove the laces and insoles, and then place the shoes in the soapy water. Use a soft brush to scrub the shoes, paying particular attention to any areas that are particularly dirty. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water and then air dry them.
  • Using a shoe cleaning kit: There are a number of shoe cleaning kits available on the market that contain everything you need to clean your shoes, including a brush, cleaning solution, and protector. These kits can be especially helpful for cleaning shoes made from delicate materials like suede and leather.

How should you properly dry shoes after washing them?

The best way to dry shoes after washing them is to air dry them in a well-ventilated area. This will help to prevent the shoes from shrinking or warping. Here are some tips for air drying shoes:

  • Remove the laces and insoles. Insoles can be air dried separately, while laces should be either air dried or kept in a separate laundry bag or pillowcase in the washer.
  • Stuff the shoes with newspaper or towels. This will help to absorb moisture and prevent the shoes from collapsing.
  • Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, such as a sunny spot on a porch or balcony. Avoid placing the shoes in direct sunlight, as this can damage the material.
  • Check the shoes periodically to see if they are dry. If the shoes are still damp after 24 hours, you can use a fan to help circulate the air and speed up the drying process.

Do not put shoes in the dryer. The heat and agitation of the dryer can damage shoe glue and warp their shape.

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Kevin K. Shaw is a fashion blogger who loves all things related to style, beauty and culture. He has been blogging for years now and he takes pride in his work.