Laundry expert reveals how to machine-wash shoes without ruining them
Your sneakers are filthy. You’re tempted to toss them in the washing machine, but will they survive the spin cycle?
It’s a question many of us have asked, especially when faced with muddy joggers, smelly gym shoes or crusty school kicks. Washing them by hand feels like a hassle, but machine-washing your shoes can go wrong if you’re not careful.
We spoke to Nicole Gibson, a laundry expert from Soka Australia (aka the Laundry Queen), to find out how to clean your shoes safely in the washing machine, plus when you really shouldn’t. She also shared her go-to DIY stain spray recipe that works wonders on everything from ugg boots to canvas shoes.
Can you wash shoes in the washing machine?
Nicole says you can wash your shoes in the washing machine – but advises against it if you can help it.
“Once you wash new shoes, they’re never the same,” says Nicole.
For example, dirty sports shoes could be “left to dry out. Then, see if you can vacuum them or get a dust brush and brush off the dirt,” she says.
If that doesn’t work, Nicole recommends using her combination spray of dishwashing liquid and vinegar to spot clean your shoes as best you can (recipe below).
The best way to wash dirty shoes: step-by-step guide
For ratty old shoes, like your trusty canvas Converse, you can wash them in the washing machine.
That said, Nicole advises against soaking canvas shoes, which means using a top loader washing machine should be avoided if you can.
“In a top loader, the shoes are sitting in more water than a front loader,” she says.
Here are Nicole’s step-by-step instructions for the best way to wash shoes in the washing machine.
- Spray shoes with her combination spray of dishwashing liquid and vinegar. Recipe below.
- Allow it to soak in.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush or spot clean with a microfibre cloth.
- Sprinkle bicarb soda.
- Place your shoes in a tight mesh bag and into your washing machine (preferably a front loader).
- Add a towel or bath mat to the cycle to cushion shoes from banging against the drum.
- Pop your washing on, using the delicate or hand wash cycle on cold. Twenty degrees is considered a cold wash.
- Dry in a warm breezy spot.
Soka DIY stain removal spray
What you’ll need
- 1 cup white vinegar (Nicole uses 8% white vinegar available in the condiment aisle).
- 3/4 cup clear dishwashing liquid (Nicole uses clear Palmolive eco).
Method
- Heat in microwave for 1 minute (once only – no need to reheat before use)
- Stir gently
- Pour into a spray bottle
- Swirl before use
red converse shoes in a washing machine
What if you don’t have a mesh bag?
If you don’t have a mesh bag to wash your shoes in, you don’t have to rush out and buy one. A simple substitute is to use an old pillow case. You will need a separate pillow case for each shoe. Fasten the case around the shoe with a shoe lace or piece of string. Add a towel into the drum for added protection.
Do you have to use the delicate cycle?
You don’t have it, but it is recommended. A typical cycle uses less water but relies on friction to help clean your clothes. When it’s just a pair of shoes in the washing machine, the more water around your shoes, the cleaner they will be. Additionally, it’s recommended to use the lowest spin cycle or none at all to prevent damaging your machine.
Do different shoe manufacturers have other instructions for cleaning?
Different shoe manufacturers often have their specific cleaning instructions, and it’s a good idea to check the label or website before tossing your shoes in the washing machine.
Nike does not recommend washing sneakers in the washing machine. The brand recommends spot cleaning and leaving to air dry. Similarly, Adidas and Asics do not recommend washing shoes in a washing machine.
If you have a stubborn stain that you need help removing, Nicole is happy to help. Contact her via the @sokaaustalia Instagram page.
