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Washing shoes in the washing machine - how to wash shoes so as not to damage them


Your shoes have lost their freshness and have become covered with unsightly-looking stains that are difficult to remove? Are you wondering if washing your shoes in the washing machine is a good idea? Well - it depends. Both on the type of shoes and the material from which they are made. Which shoes can be washed in the washing machine and which ones need to be cleaned by hand?

What shoes can you wash in a washing machine?

Although at first the idea of ​​washing shoes in a washing machine may seem absurd, it is worth emphasizing that some types of shoes will survive this test unscathed. Moreover, manufacturers also allow for this possibility by placing appropriate information on the label. Therefore, to make sure that washing your shoes in a washing machine will not damage your favorite pair, do not forget to read the recommendations of the company that made the shoes.

In general Cloth shoes, such as sneakers or sneakers, can be washed in a washing machine well. The condition is that the shoes must be sewn. You may also hear that this method can also be used with sports shoes, but you should be especially careful in this case.

You will certainly be interested in the fact that some popular sports footwear manufacturers strictly prohibit washing their shoes in a washing machine. If you take the risk, there is a high probability that if the shoes are damaged during washing, the manufacturer will not accept the complaint.

In addition, categorically We do not recommend washing in the washing machine shoes such as: espadrilles, models made of grain leather and suede, as well as high heels and heavy ankle boots. and all glued models. Too long and intense contact with water would certainly contribute to their destruction, which in the case of models made of natural leather would have significant financial consequences. In the case of espadrilles, the element that will not survive washing in a washing machine is the characteristic straw sole.

Washing shoes in a washing machine step by step

You now know what types of footwear you can wash in the washing machine and what types should definitely not be washed in the washing machine. However, before you joyfully throw your favorite shoes into the washing machine drum, read our tips on how to wash your shoes safely so as not to destroy them.

  • Clean your shoes from larger dirt, such as mud and sand, which could damage the washing machine drum, lines or filters.

  • Remove the laces as the tight weave prevents precise removal of dirt. It is best to wash them by hand or in a small bag. If possible, we advise you to also remove the insert. 

  • Do not throw shoes directly into the drum! Use a canvas bag intended for washing shoes. An alternative would be, for example, a pillowcase or 2-3 towels that will absorb the impact of the shoes on the drum. 

  • To wash your shoes, use a small amount of gentle laundry detergent. It is recommended to completely avoid fabric softener. 

  • At what degrees are shoes washed? The water temperature should not exceed 40ºC 

  • Choose the shortest possible washing cycle, without spinning. In modern models of washing machines, you will certainly find a program designed for washing shoes.

After washing, dry the shoes thoroughly. Remember not to place your shoes directly in or out of the sun small distance from a radiator or stove which could deform or discolor it footwear. To maintain the desiredy shape shoes, they should be stuffed with newspapers while drying.

To sum up, washing shoes in a washing machine is only safe for specific shoe models. Before making a final decision, always read the instructions on the shoe packaging or on tag inside the shoe. Automatic washing models made of leather, as well as very contaminated ones, may result in damage to the shoes or washing machine. Choose hand washing whenever possible, using products available in shoe stores or using home remedies such as baking soda or a mild detergent.

If your shoes do not require washing, gently refreshing them with a soft cloth or sponge is enough. In turn, the unpleasant smell, which is the most common reason for washing shoes, can be effectively reduced with a special disinfectant. On our blog you will find an article on methods of removing unpleasant odors from shoes and cleaning white soles. We encourage you to read the tips that will certainly be useful in everyday shoe care.