Keeping our footwear clean is essential not only for aesthetic reasons but also for hygiene and longevity. While many of us are accustomed to handwashing our shoes, using a washing machine can be a convenient and effective alternative.
Whether you're dealing with canvas sneakers or athletic shoes, mastering the true method can simplify the task of shoe maintenance and extend the lifespan of your favorite pairs.
Can you put shoes in the washer?
Yes, you can put certain types of shoes in the washer.
However, it's essential to check the care label or manufacturer's instructions before doing so.
Which shoes are machine washable?
Canvas Shoes: Canvas sneakers, slip-ons, and other casual shoes are often machine washable. They're durable and can handle the agitation of the washing machine well.
Nylon and Polyester Shoes: Many athletic shoes, including running shoes and trainers, are made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, which are usually safe for machine washing.
Rubber or Plastic Shoes: Some types of rubber or plastic shoes, such as flip-flops, water shoes, and certain types of sandals, can be washed in the machine.
Some Fabric Boots: Fabric-based boots like rain boots or some winter boots with removable liners may be machine washable. However, it's crucial to check the care label and remove any liners or inserts before washing.
Slippers: Many types of fabric or synthetic slippers can be washed in the washing machine for easy cleaning.
Which shoes cannot be machine washed?
Normally, these shoes cannot be washed in a washing machine:
- Leather Shoes: Leather is a delicate material that can be damaged by water and agitation in the washing machine. It can cause the leather to warp, shrink, or lose its shape.
- Suede Shoes: Suede is another material that is sensitive to water and can easily be ruined by the washing machine. Water can cause the suede to become discolored, stained, or damaged, altering its texture and appearance.
- Shoes with Delicate Embellishments: Shoes adorned with sequins, beads, embroidery, or other delicate embellishments should not be washed in the machine. The agitation and friction can cause these embellishments to become loose, fall off, or become damaged, ruining the overall appearance of the shoes.
- High-Heeled Shoes: Shoes with high heels, especially those with delicate construction or intricate designs, are not suitable for machine washing. The pressure and movement inside the machine can cause the heels to become misshapen, damaged, or detached from the shoe.
- Boots with Specialty Materials: Boots made from specialty materials like fur, shearling, or delicate fabrics are not typically suitable for machine washing. These materials can be damaged by water, heat, or agitation, altering their appearance and texture.
But, If you own one of our shoe washing bags, you can wash any type of shoes in the washing machine.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you begin washing your shoes, it's essential to prepare them properly:
- Check the Care Label: Start by checking the care label inside your shoes. This will indicate whether they are machine washable or if there are any specific instructions you need to follow.
- Remove Laces and Insoles: Take out the laces and insoles from your shoes. This will ensure a more thorough clean and prevent them from getting tangled or damaged during the wash cycle.
- Pre-Treat Stains: If there are any visible stains on your shoes, pre-treat them with a mild detergent or stain remover. Use a soft brush to gently scrub away any dirt or debris.
Notice: If you have one of our shoe washing bag, you can ignore these steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Washing Machine
Once your shoes are prepared, it's time to set up the washing machine:
Use a Shoe Washing Bag: Keep Your Shoes Fresh and Clean Effortlessly.
There are more than 12,000 chenille microfibers in the shoe washing bag with a length of 3cm, which is equivalent to brushing shoes by hand and can completely remove stains on shoes. and perfectly protect your shoes from scuffing during the washing process.
Why Choose Our Shoe Washing Bag?
- Wide Application: This shoe laundry bag is suitable for various types of shoes, including sneakers, on-cloud shoes, and hey-dude shoes.
- Prolongs Shoe Lifespan: Protects and preserves the quality of your shoes.
- Convenient and Efficient: Saves time and effort in maintaining your footwear.
- Bright and Stylish Design: Easy to spot and adds a touch of style to your laundry routine.
Simply put your shoes into the bag, zip them up, and place them in the washing machine, then your shoes look like new.
How to wash shoes in washing machine without mesh bag?
Washing shoes in a washing machine without a mesh bag can be a bit risky, as they might get damaged or cause damage to the machine.
However, if you're willing to take the chance, here are some steps you can follow:
- Preparation: Remove any excess dirt or debris from the shoes by hand. You can use an old toothbrush or a soft brush to gently scrub off the dirt.
- Laces and Insoles: Remove the shoelaces and insoles from the shoes. Wash them separately by hand or put them in a pillowcase to protect them during the wash cycle.
- Protect the Machine: If you're concerned about the shoes damaging the washing machine, you can place some towels or small blankets in with the shoes to act as a buffer.
Step 3: Washing Process
With your shoes and washing machine ready, it's time to start the washing process:
- Choose the Right Cycle: Select a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine. Use cold water to prevent any potential damage to the shoes.
- Use Mild Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent to the washing machine. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the materials of the shoes.
- Start the Machine: Start the washing machine and let it run through the selected cycle. Keep an eye on the machine to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Step 4: Drying
Once the wash cycle is complete, it's time to dry your shoes:
Allow the shoes to air dry
Take your shoes out of the washing machine. There are several ways to let them dry naturally without damage.
Remove Excess Moisture
- Shake Off Excess Water: After washing your shoes, gently shake them to remove any excess water. This will help speed up the drying process.
- Absorb Moisture: Use a clean towel or paper towels to gently pat the exterior and interior of the shoes to absorb any remaining moisture.
If you're in a hurry, a hair dryer can speed things up.
Stuff Shoes with Absorbent Material
- Use Paper Towels or Cloth: Stuff your shoes with crumpled paper towels, dry clothes, or even newspaper. This will help absorb moisture from the inside of the shoes and maintain their shape as they dry.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Ensure you don't overstuff the shoes, as this can distort their shape. Leave enough room for air circulation inside.
Air Dry in a Well-Ventilated Area
- Choose a Well-Ventilated Spot: Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause the shoes to shrink or yellow.
- Let Them Air Dry Naturally: Allow your shoes to air dry naturally. This may take anywhere from a few hours to overnight, depending on the humidity levels and airflow in the room.
Rotate and Monitor
- Rotate Shoes Periodically: To ensure even drying, rotate your shoes periodically. This will help all parts of the shoes dry uniformly.
- Check for Dryness: After a few hours, check the shoes to see if they're dry to the touch. If they still feel damp, continue air drying until completely dry.
- Avoid the Dryer: Avoid putting your shoes in the dryer, as the heat can damage the materials and cause them to shrink or warp.
How to Dry White Shoes Naturally After Washing
Drying white shoes properly is essential to maintain their color and prevent any damage.
If the shoes are white, you can cover them with toilet paper during the drying process and leave them in the sun to dry, to prevent the color from turning yellow.
Step 5: Reassemble and Wear
- Reinsert Insoles: Once your shoes are completely dry, remove the paper towels or cloths from inside. Reinsert the insoles if you remove them before washing.
- Lace Up and Enjoy: Lace up your shoes and they're ready to wear again! Your freshly washed and dried white shoes should now look clean and bright.