If you are wondering about how to wash shoes in washing machine at home, then you have landed on the right page. Cleaning your shoes regularly is a basic need that everyone must follow. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a working professional, or a student, wearing clean shoes makes a noticeable difference in your aura. In fact, you can also get your shoes cleaned by professionals once in a while to extend their lifespan. In the following article, you will learn how to clean shoes in washing machine at home.

Which Shoes Can Handle the Washing Machine?

Every shoe is created differently, and every shoe requires a tailored cleaning. Some are fine to be washed in a washing machine, while others should be hand-washed. Before tossing your shoes in the washing machine, consider their material and check the label for specific washing instructions.

Shoes that can be washed using a Washing Machine:

  • Canvas Shoes: These are usually the easiest to wash. Canvas sneakers, such as Converse or Vans, can withstand a machine wash. Cleaning canvas shoes in the washing machine is generally safe.
  • Synthetic material sports Shoes: materials like nylon and polyester are durable and often found in running shoes or everyday shoes. These shoes can be machine washed, and they usually dry faster than other types due to their material.
  • Cloth Shoes: Cloth shoes can be washed in a washing machine, but adjust the water temperature and RPM (revolutions per minute) to prevent damage to the shoes.

Shoes You Should NOT Put in the Washing Machine:

  • Leather Shoes: A Washing machine can damage the leather. It can dry it out, crack it, or make it stiff.
  • Suede Shoes: Suede is a delicate material. Water and washing machines can damage the texture of the shoe or cause colour bleeding.

Any shoe that is made of delicate material must NOT be washed in a washing machine; instead, they should be hand-washed, or you can hire a cleaning service for the cleaning and washing of such shoes.

Preparing Your Shoes Before Washing

Before putting your shoes in the washing machine, a few essential steps are needed. These steps will help you achieve the best possible results while preventing any damage.

  • Remove Loose Dirt: Bang your shoes together outdoors to remove loose dirt, mud, or rocks, and scrub them with a clean brush to wipe off the remaining dirt.
  • Remove Laces and Soles: Before washing your shoes in the machine, remove their laces and soles; washing shoes with laces can cause them to tangle. You should also remove the insoles. Cleaning insoles in washing machines is possible, but it’s better to wash them by hand. Washing them by hand allows them to dry correctly.
  • Place Shoes in a Laundry Bag: Putting your shoes in a bag helps to protect them. The bag will prevent the shoes from banging around too much in the drum. This will also help protect your washing machine.

How to clean shoes in washing machine

After going through the procedure mentioned above, it’s now time to know how to clean shoes in washing machine. Here’s a step-by-step process on how to clean shoes at home in a washing machine.

  • Load the Washing Machine: Place your shoes in a mesh bag and add them to the washing machine. Add some old clothes or towels to provide cushioning for the shoes and prevent banging in the washing machine.
  • Choose the Right temperature: The water should be cold or lukewarm. Hot water can damage shoe materials and cause colour bleeding.
  • Use Mild Detergent: Use a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the texture of the shoes.
  • Skip the Dryer: Air Dry the Shoes: The heat from a dryer can damage your shoes, particularly the glue and rubber parts. Instead, wipe the wet shoe with a dry, clean cloth and place the shoes in a well-ventilated area to let them air dry.

How to wash shoes at home– by hand

–For delicate or non-machine-washable shoes, here’s how to wash shoes at home safely by hand:

  • Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild detergent or shoe cleaner.
  • Scrub the Surface: Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the shoe’s surface gently. For leather, use a damp cloth and a suitable cleaner.
  • Rinse Carefully: Dampen a clean cloth and gently wipe down the shoes to remove any remaining soap residue. Don’t soak the shoes in water.
  • Dry Properly: Gently pat the shoes dry with a towel and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.

– Choosing between hand-washing canvas shoes or using a sneaker cycle in the washer is just one part of the picture—our Laundry Tips for Professionals article dives deeper into care routines for your full wardrobe.

When should you consider professional shoe cleaning services?

Now that you know how to clean shoes in washing machine, you should also know that while it is okay to clean your shoes at home, getting them cleaned by a professional will give your shoes an extended lifespan. Here are some points to consider if you’re unsure whether to have your shoes cleaned by professionals or not.

  • Unable to remove stains and dirt even after washing at home several times
  • If you don’t want to harm the delicate fabric of your shoes, like leather and suede
  • If you are a working professional or busy with other important chores
  • Want to eliminate the sweaty odour of your shoes.

If you are facing all the above-mentioned problems even after cleaning your shoes countless times at home, then you must consider professional cleaners like CleanHive to get your shoes cleaned.

How can CleanHive clean your shoes?

CleanHive is one of the most professional and suitable shoe cleaning service providers you will ever find. Don’t believe us? Well, read how they will clean your shoes with an authentic cleaning process and make your shoes look new.

  1. CleanHive uses organic cleaning solutions for your shoes
  2. They have highly trained experts to get your shoes cleaned
  3. They follow a proper cleaning and shoe dry cleaning process
  4. CleanHive picks up and drops your shoes right at your doorstep
  5. They clean the delicate shoe fabrics gently and with utmost care.

Conclusion

Cleaning your shoes not only makes them look clean, but it also extends their lifespan and removes the unpleasant odour of sweat and bacteria . Just like dry cleaning your shoes helps keep your feet fresh and odor-free, dry cleaning your clothes protects delicate fabrics and keeps them feeling soft and comfortable on your skin. Whether you wash them in a washing machine or clean them by hand at home, following the proper techniques is crucial to prevent any kind of damage. Washing your shoes at home can be a challenging task if you don’t know how to wash shoes in washing machine or by hand; there’s always an option to hire a professional to get this done without any hassle. So if you want your old shoes to look brand new, reach out to CleanHive now!

FAQs

Q1. Can all shoes be cleaned in a washing machine?
Ans. No, shoes made from leather, suede, or delicate materials should not be machine-washed. Instead, they can be cleaned by hand, or you can hire a professional to clean them.

Q2. How long do shoes take to air dry?
Ans. It can take 12 to 24 hours, depending on the material and ventilation. Stuffing shoes with paper or dry, clean cloth helps speed up the process.

Q3. What detergent should I use?
Ans. Use a gentle, non-bleach liquid detergent, as there’s a risk of damage from harsh chemicals and bleach. Additionally, avoid powder detergents, as they may not dissolve completely in cold water.

Q4. Why shouldn’t I wash shoes with laces and insoles?
Ans. You should wash your laces and insoles separately; the laces can get tangled and can be damaged, and washing shoes with insoles can cause improper drying.

Q5. Why do I need to get my shoes cleaned by a professional?
Ans. Getting your shoes cleaned by a professional restores the original charm of your shoes, which can’t be done by cleaning or washing them at home. A professional knows how to clean your shoes properly, preventing any damage.