Safe and Effective Ways to Clean Sneakers in the Washing Machine

4 minutes read

Keeping your sneakers fresh and clean is essential, but hand-washing can be time-consuming. Fortunately, many sneakers can be safely cleaned in the washing machine without damage—if you follow the right steps. Here’s a complete guide to washing your sneakers in the machine, so you can restore their look and prolong their lifespan.

Before You Begin: Check the Label

Before tossing your sneakers in the washer, always check the care label. Most fabric, canvas, or synthetic sneakers are machine-washable, but leather, suede, and certain specialty materials are not. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s website or stick to hand-washing.

What You’ll Need

• Mild liquid detergent
• Soft brush or old toothbrush
• Mesh laundry bags or pillowcases
• Old towels
• Baking soda (optional, for odor)
• Paper towels or clean rags (for drying)

Step-by-Step Guide to Machine-Washing Sneakers

1. Remove laces and insoles
   Take out the shoelaces and insoles before washing. Wash laces separately (you can place them in a mesh bag) and, if insoles are machine-safe, include them too. Otherwise, hand-wash insoles to prevent damage.
2. Brush off excess dirt
   Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to remove loose dirt, mud, or debris from the surface and soles. This prevents clogging your washing machine and ensures a thorough clean.
3. Pre-treat stains (if needed)
   If your sneakers have stubborn stains, apply a small amount of mild detergent or stain remover to the affected areas and gently scrub with the brush. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes for best results.
4. Use laundry bags or pillowcases
   Place each sneaker in a separate mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This protects the shoes and prevents them from banging against the drum, which can cause damage.
5. Add towels for balance and cushioning
   Wash your sneakers with a few old towels. The towels act as a buffer, reducing impact and noise while helping balance the load in the washing machine.
6. Select the right cycle and temperature
   Use a gentle or delicate cycle and cold water. Hot water can warp soles and damage adhesives. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can degrade both color and material.
7. Use mild detergent
   Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid powder detergents, as they may not dissolve properly and can leave residue on your sneakers.
8. Start the wash
   Run the gentle cycle. Double-check that your machine is balanced. If it becomes too loud or unsteady, pause and redistribute the load.
9. Air dry properly
   Never put sneakers in the dryer—the heat can cause shrinkage, warping, and glue breakdown. Instead, reshape your sneakers and stuff them with paper towels or clean rags to absorb moisture and help them retain their shape. Let them air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Extra Tips for Best Results

• Place a bit of baking soda in your sneakers before washing to help eliminate odors.
• Replace paper towels inside sneakers as they become damp during drying.
• For stubborn odor, let sneakers sit outside in fresh air after washing.
• To speed up drying, use a fan or place sneakers near a dehumidifier.

What to Avoid

• Do not use bleach or strong chemical cleaners.
• Never machine-wash leather or suede sneakers.
• Do not use the dryer or expose sneakers to direct heat.
• Avoid overloading the washing machine; sneakers should have room to move.

Conclusion

Machine-washing sneakers is quick and convenient when done right. By following these steps—removing laces and insoles, using mesh bags, selecting gentle cycles, and air drying—you can refresh your favorite kicks without risk of damage. Keep your sneakers looking and smelling great with regular gentle cleaning!

References

• American Cleaning Institute. “How to Clean Sneakers.” https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clothing/how-clean-sneakers
• Good Housekeeping. “How to Wash Sneakers in the Washing Machine.” https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a37910/clean-sneakers-in-the-washing-machine/
• Consumer Reports. “How to Clean Sneakers.” https://www.consumerreports.org/shoes/how-to-clean-sneakers-a2386926675/
• Real Simple. “How to Clean Sneakers in the Washing Machine.” https://www.realsimple.com/cleaning-organizing/cleaning/cleaning-sneakers-in-washing-machine
• Nike. “How to Clean Your Running Shoes.” https://www.nike.com/a/how-to-clean-running-shoes