Mud, sweat, and daily wear can turn shoes grimy faster than expected, leaving many people unsure how to clean them without causing damage.
One common question keeps coming up: Can I put shoes in the washer, or does that risk ruining them for good?
The answer is not as simple as a yes or no.
Shoe materials, construction, and washing methods all play a role in what happens next.
Some pairs come out fresh and intact, while others may lose shape or wear down faster.
The sections ahead break down what makes the difference, which shoes handle washing better, and what steps help avoid costly mistakes.
Can I Put Shoes in the Washer?
Yes, some shoes can go in the washer, but not all of them.
Machine washing is generally safe for shoes made from canvas, mesh, or basic synthetic materials, especially when they are lightweight and flexible.
These shoes can handle gentle movement and cold water without losing shape.
However, shoes made from leather, suede, or with heavy soles and glued parts should stay out of the washer. Water and spinning can weaken adhesives, cause stiffness, or lead to cracking.
How the shoes are washed also matters. Using a gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent helps limit damage.
Removing laces and insoles before washing supports even cleaning and better results.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method for Shoes
Shoe material plays a key role in how it should be cleaned.
Here is a clear breakdown of safe and unsafe cleaning methods:
| Shoe Type | Washer | Hand Wash | Spot Clean |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas shoes | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Athletic sneakers (mesh or synthetic uppers) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fabric slippers and cloth footwear | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Leather shoes | ❌ | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Suede shoes | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Shoes with hard soles or glued layers | ❌ | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Shoes with embellishments | ❌ | ❌ | ⚠️ |
How to Wash Shoes in the Washer Safely?
Shoes can be washed in the washer safely if the right steps are followed. The key is reducing stress on the shoes while still getting them clean.
Each step below focuses on preventing damage and improving results:
1. Remove Laces and Insoles
Before washing, take out the laces and insoles. Laces can tangle or stretch during the cycle, while insoles often hold moisture and take longer to dry.
Washing them separately allows better cleaning and prevents odor buildup.
This step also helps water reach inside the shoe more evenly, leading to a cleaner finish without putting pressure on stitched or glued areas.
2. Place Shoes in a Laundry Bag
Always put shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This limits direct contact with the drum, reducing noise and impact damage.
The bag also helps prevent the shoes from knocking against the washer walls, which can loosen soles or scuff fabric.
For balance, adding a few towels to the load helps cushion movement during the cycle.
3. Use Cold Water and a Gentle Cycle
Cold water protects shoe materials from shrinking or weakening. A gentle cycle keeps agitation low, which is important for maintaining shape and structure.
Harsh cycles can strain seams and soften glue over time.
Mild detergent is enough for removing dirt without leaving residue or causing fabric wear, making this step both effective and safe.
4. Air-Dry Shoes Properly
After washing, let shoes air-dry only.
Heat from dryers can warp soles and cause glue to fail.
Place shoes in a well-ventilated area and stuff them with paper or cloth to help hold their shape.
Turning them occasionally supports even drying and prevents lingering moisture inside the shoe.
How to Dry Shoes Without Causing Damage?
Shoes should not be dried in a dryer after washing. Heat and tumbling can cause shrinking, warped soles, and weakened glue.
Safer drying methods rely on airflow and patience rather than heat.
- Air-Dry in a Ventilated Area: Place shoes in an open space with good airflow, away from heat or sunlight, to let moisture dry evenly.
- Use Paper Towels or Cloth for Shape Support: Stuff shoes with paper or cloth to absorb moisture and help them keep their shape while drying.
- Dry Shoes With a Fan: Use a fan to move air around the shoes, which speeds up drying without adding heat.
- Rotate Shoes During Drying: Turn shoes every few hours so all areas dry evenly and moisture does not stay trapped.
What to Avoid When Washing Shoes in the Washer?
The shoes often get damaged in the washer because of some avoidable mistakes.
Below are common errors that reduce shoe life and affect washing results:
- Using hot water: Hot water can shrink fabric and weaken glue.
- Skipping laces and insole removal: This leads to uneven cleaning and trapped moisture.
- Washing shoes without a laundry bag: Direct impact can damage both shoes and the washer.
- Choosing a heavy wash cycle: Strong agitation stresses seams and soles.
Can Shoes Go in The Washer: Reddit Insights
Most Reddit users advise against putting shoes in the washer unless there is no other option.
Across running and shoe-care discussions, users repeatedly recommend hand cleaning as the safer choice.
Many advise using a soft brush, mild soap, and water to clean mud without damaging the shoe.
Long soaking is discouraged as extended water exposure can damage foam cushioning and weaken glue.
Several users also warn against drying shoes in direct sunlight or near heat, noting that excess warmth can damage adhesives.
While some acknowledge that gentle machine washing may work in rare cases, the general view is that it shortens shoe lifespan.
Air-drying with steady airflow, such as using a fan, is commonly suggested as a safer alternative.
Key Takeaways
Washing shoes at home can be helpful, but results depend on how and what gets cleaned.
Fabric and mesh shoes usually handle gentle washing better, while leather, suede, and heavy designs are more likely to get damaged.
Preparation steps like removing laces, using cold water, and choosing air-drying over heat make a noticeable difference.
Many shoe owners also prefer hand cleaning to protect the structure and comfort. Choosing the correct method helps keep shoes clean without reducing their lifespan.
Have you ever washed your shoes at home? Share what worked or what did not in the comments below.
Stephanie Grace, a graduate with a degree in Fine Arts from the Savannah College of Art and Design, has been inspiring DIY enthusiasts with her creative and practical guidance for over 14 years. Her career in design and crafting began in a small artisan workshop, where she developed a passion for transforming everyday materials into beautiful and functional items. Stephanie joined our website in 2018, rapidly gaining popularity for her easy-to-follow DIY tutorials and innovative project ideas. Since then, she has been the creative mind behind our DIY section, helping readers bring their artistic visions to life. Outside her professional pursuits, Stephanie enjoys pottery and urban gardening, hobbies that showcase her love for hands-on creativity and nature.
