Can I Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine? A Practical Guide

We’ve all been there: muddy sneakers after a sudden downpour, dusty canvas shoes after a weekend trip, or gym trainers that smell like they’ve survived a marathon you never ran. The question always follows: Can I just throw them in the washing machine and be done with it?

The short answer: sometimes yes, sometimes no. The longer answer needs a bit of nuance, because not all shoes are created equal.

Which Shoes Can Handle a Spin?

Fabric-based shoes, like canvas, synthetic mesh, or basic sports trainers, are usually fine in the wash. They’re built to handle friction and moisture. On the other hand, leather, suede, or shoes with glued-on trims can warp, discolor, or even fall apart under pressure. Think of it like asking if your favorite jacket is “machine safe”; the label matters.

Quick check before washing:

• Look for the care tag, usually under the tongue.
  

• If it mentions “hand wash only” or warns against soaking, trust it.
  
  

How to Wash Them Without Ruining Them

If your shoes make it past the eligibility test, don’t just toss them in and hope for the best. A few small steps can save you from regret.

1. Remove laces and insoles.
   Laces tangle, insoles hold water. Wash laces separately and air-dry insoles.
   
   

2. Pre-clean the dirt.
   Knock off dried mud and dust. Machines aren’t miracle workers; they’ll just redistribute dirt if you don’t.
   
   

3. Use a laundry bag or pillowcase.
   This reduces banging noises and protects both your shoes and the drum.
   
   

4. Add towels.
   Not for cleaning, but for balance. Towels absorb impact and cut down the machine’s “clunk” during spin.
   
   

5. Gentle cycle, cold water.
   Hot water weakens glue and warps shapes. Cold water keeps the structure intact.
   
   

6. Skip the dryer.
   Heat shrinks and cracks shoes. Instead, stuff them with newspaper or microfiber cloth and let them air dry.
   
   

Mistakes Most People Make

The biggest error? Speed. People want clean shoes in an hour. But shoes are layered, with foam, glue, fabric, and sometimes rubber. Rushing with heat or heavy spin is why they warp. Another common mistake is detergent overload. More soap doesn’t mean cleaner; it just means residue that stiffens fabric.

So, Is It Worth It?

Washing shoes in the machine works best for pairs you wear daily and don’t mind aging a bit faster. If it’s an expensive or limited-edition pair, hand washing is the safer call. For casual canvas or running shoes, though, the machine is a time saver, just with the right prep.

Think of it this way: the washing machine is a helper, not a magician. Used wisely, it gives you fresh shoes without hours of scrubbing. Used carelessly, it can turn your favorite pair into “yard work only” footwear.