Yes, shoes made of canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester are typically safe to clean in a washing machine, while those crafted from leather, suede, rubber, or vinyl should not be washined in the machine washing.
Dos and don’ts of washing shoes
Dos
- Read the care label or manufacturer’s instructions before washing your shoes.
- Remove any excess dirt or debris from the shoes before washing.
- Use a gentle cycle and cold water to avoid damaging the shoes.
- Use a mild detergent to avoid damaging the shoes’ materials.
- If possible, remove any removable insoles or inserts before washing.
- Air dry the shoes after washing, and avoid using heat sources such as a dryer or heater.
Don’ts
- Do not wash shoes made from leather, suede, rubber or vinyl in a washing machine.
- Do not use hot water, as it can shrink or damage the shoes.
- Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the shoes’ materials.
- Do not dry the shoes with direct heat sources, such as a dryer or heater, as it can cause the shoes to warp or shrink.
- Do not wash shoes with embellishments or delicate decorations, as they may become damaged or detached during the washing process.
5-step guide ot washing shoes
Step 1
Remove any loose dirt or debris from the shoes by brushing them off or using a dry cloth.
Step 2
If possible, remove any removable insoles or inserts from the shoes.
Step 3
Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them during the washing process.
Step 4
Wash the shoes on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
Step 5
After the wash cycle is complete, remove the shoes from the laundry bag and allow them to air dry. Avoid using a dryer or heater to dry the shoes, as this can cause damage to the materials. You may stuff the shoes with paper towels to help them keep their shape while drying.
FAQs
Can I wash all types of shoes in the washing machine?
No, not all shoes can be washed in a washing machine. Shoes made of materials like leather, suede, rubber, or vinyl should not be placed in a washing machine, as this can damage the materials.
What type of detergent should I use to wash my shoes?
It’s best to use a mild detergent when washing shoes. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the materials.
Can I dry my shoes in a dryer?
It’s not recommended to dry shoes in a dryer, as the heat can cause damage to the materials. It’s best to air dry shoes after washing.
How do I prevent my shoes from losing their shape during the washing process?
To prevent shoes from losing their shape during washing, stuff them with paper towels or old rags to help them keep their shape while they dry.
How often should I wash my shoes?
The frequency of washing your shoes will depend on how often you wear them and how dirty they get. As a general rule, it’s recommended to wash athletic shoes after every use to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.
Final thoughts ðŸ’
It is generally safe to wash shoes made of canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester in a washing machine with cold water and mild detergent. Shoes made from leather, suede, rubber, or vinyl should not be placed in a washing machine.
Read care labels, remove loose dirt, and air dry shoes after washing. FAQs covered topics such as which shoes can be washed in a machine, what detergent to use, and how to prevent shoes from losing their shape during washing.
Leave a Reply