Ah, sneakers – our faithful companions on all walks, concerts, outings and everyday runs around the city. When they're new, they're a fashion statement. When they're dirty... they're more of a reminder that another part of your wardrobe needs to be washed. Bright sneakers are a magnet for stains, so it's no surprise that many people wonder: can I wash them in the washing machine? And if so – how can I avoid turning them into something that resembles a piece of textile art from the backyard?
Washing sneakers in washing machine It's not taboo, but it's also not something you do without thinking. If you want your shoes to survive this adventure without lasting consequences, you need to follow some basic rules of the game. From proper preparation to program selection and drying - every step counts. Below, we reveal exactly how to tackle this mini-project so that your sports allies are ready for urban adventures after washing.
How and when to put sneakers in the washing machine
First and foremost, the rule is: not everything goes in the machine. Leather sneakers, those made of suede, or those with delicate details like glitter, lacquer, or embellishments, prefer a gentler approach – say, hand cleaning with a damp cloth and a little patience. Canvas and cotton sneakers are much more durable and are suitable for machine washing.
Before loading them into the drum, make sure to prep them thoroughly. Remove the laces and wash them separately – ideally in a mesh bag with other delicate items like socks. If they’re removable, take out the insoles as well. Then give your sneakers a quick cleaning with a soft brush – removing any mud, dust, leaves or random crumbs that have mysteriously ended up inside.
When the sneakers are ready, put in a protective bag – even better, use a dedicated shoe washing bag. In extreme cases, a pillowcase will also suffice. Don’t forget to add some towels to the machine – they will soften the drum shocks and prevent your shoes from experiencing real spin trauma.
Program, temperature and everything the drum (doesn't) like
Sneakers do not need a rough wash, but a gentle touch. The washing machine should be set to program for delicate laundry, the temperature should not exceed 30 degrees Celsius. Why? Because the glue that holds most modern sneakers together simply breaks down in higher temperatures. And nothing ruins a day as quickly as a pair of broken-down sneakers that were working perfectly fine just a few hours ago.
Using a high-speed spin cycle is not recommended – not just for the sake of your shoes, but also for the sake of your washing machine. Sneakers that bang against the drum like a pair of jumbled castanets are not only annoying, but can also damage the inside of the machine in the long run.
Drying: no radiators or dryers, please
Although you might be tempted to throw them in the dryer and be done with it, don't be tempted. High temperatures can warp the sole, unravel the construction, and leave irreparable damage. Instead, sneakers air dry, in the shade, preferably outdoors where there is plenty of air circulation. You can fill the inside with paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture and maintain its shape.
Drying should be done slowly – this is not a quick fashion renovation, but a gentle rehabilitation after a water adventure.
When sneakers breathe a new life
Once you're done with the whole process, you'll be amazed at how much a freshly washed pair of sneakers can brighten up your day. They'll be ready for new adventures - from city streets to nature walks, except they'll smell more like detergent than the last concert.
And finally: yes, sneakers can be washed in the washing machine – if you know what you’re doing. Wash them carefully, gently and with a sense of the material. After all, they’re your favorite pair – not a test run. centrifuges.
