How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine Safely Without Damage

Many sneakers can be washed in a washing machine, but not every pair is machine washable. Sneakers made from canvas, cotton, nylon, and some synthetic materials can often be cleaned in a washer, while leather, suede, and delicate or heavily decorated shoes usually require a different cleaning method.

Using the wrong washing cycle or drying method can cause sneakers to lose their shape, fade, develop loose glue, or become damaged. Checking the manufacturer's care instructions before washing is always the safest approach.

Sneakers You Should Keep Out of the Washing Machine

Avoid putting sneakers in the washer if they are made from materials that can be easily damaged by water or mechanical agitation.

This includes many:

• Suede sneakers

• Leather sneakers

• Shoes with delicate embroidery

• Shoes with glued-on decorations

• Sneakers with electronic components

• Shoes with fragile structural elements

For these types of footwear, use the cleaning method recommended by the manufacturer.

Preparing Sneakers Before Machine Washing

Putting dirty sneakers directly into the washing machine isn't the best approach. A few preparation steps can make the cleaning process safer and more effective.

Remove the Laces

Take the laces out before washing. They can be washed separately, either by hand or in a suitable laundry bag if their care instructions allow machine washing.

Remove the Insoles

If the insoles are removable, take them out and check their care instructions.

Some insoles can be washed, while others should only be wiped clean. Allow them to dry completely before putting them back into the sneakers.

Remove Loose Dirt

Use a soft brush or cloth to remove loose mud, dirt, and debris from the soles and upper parts of the sneakers.

This prevents large amounts of dirt from entering your washing machine.

Check for Damage

Inspect the sneakers for:

• Loose soles

• Torn fabric

• Detached stitching

• Damaged eyelets

• Peeling material

Machine washing a shoe that is already damaged can make the problem worse.

How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine

1. Put the Sneakers in a Laundry Bag

Place the sneakers inside a mesh laundry bag or suitable protective bag if recommended by the manufacturer.

This can reduce excessive movement and prevent the shoes from repeatedly hitting the washing-machine drum.

2. Add Towels if Appropriate

If the manufacturer's instructions permit it, adding a few old towels can cushion the sneakers during the wash.

Don't overload the washing machine. There needs to be enough space for everything to move freely.

3. Choose a Gentle Cycle

Use a gentle or delicate cycle when machine washing is permitted.

Avoid aggressive cycles designed for heavily soiled laundry unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them.

4. Use Cold or Cool Water

Cold or cool water is generally preferable when the care instructions allow it.

Hot water can increase the risk of color fading, material damage, and weakening of adhesives in some sneakers.

5. Use a Small Amount of Mild Detergent

Use a suitable mild laundry detergent and follow the recommended dosage.

Avoid using bleach unless the sneaker manufacturer specifically says it is safe for the material.

Can You Wash White Sneakers in a Washing Machine?

Some white canvas or synthetic sneakers can be machine washed, but check their care instructions first.

Before washing, remove as much surface dirt as possible. A gentle wash with an appropriate detergent may help remove everyday dirt.

Avoid assuming that every white sneaker is machine washable simply because it is made from fabric. Construction and adhesives can vary significantly between shoes.

Can You Wash Sneakers With Clothes?

It is generally better to wash sneakers separately from your regular clothing.

Sneakers can contain dirt and debris, and their soles may damage or soil other garments.

If you use towels to cushion the sneakers, choose old towels that you don't mind getting dirty.

The Most Important Part: Drying Your Sneakers

Proper drying is just as important as washing.

Do not automatically put machine-washable sneakers into a hot dryer.

High heat can cause:

• Shrinkage

• Material deformation

• Glue deterioration

• Loss of shape

• Cracking or warping

Instead, follow the manufacturer's drying instructions. If air-drying is recommended, place the sneakers in a well-ventilated area away from excessive heat.

You can stuff them loosely with clean paper to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Replace the paper if it becomes saturated.

Allow the sneakers to dry completely before wearing them.

Can You Put Sneakers in a Dryer?

Some sneakers may be dryer-safe, but many manufacturers recommend air-drying instead.

If the care label says do not tumble dry, follow that instruction. Even when tumble drying is allowed, use the recommended temperature and cycle.

Avoid placing sneakers directly against a high-heat source such as a radiator or heater.

How to Prevent Sneakers From Losing Their Shape

Sneakers can become misshapen when they are saturated with water.

To help maintain their shape:

1. Remove excess water gently.

2. Don't wring the sneakers aggressively.

3. Reshape them while damp.

4. Stuff them loosely with clean paper if appropriate.

5. Let them dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.

Never twist or wring structured sneakers aggressively.

How Often Should You Machine Wash Sneakers?

Sneakers generally don't need to be machine washed after every use.

Frequent machine washing can contribute to:

• Material wear

• Fading

• Glue deterioration

• Loss of structural support

• Premature damage

For everyday dirt, brushing or spot-cleaning your sneakers can often be enough. Save machine washing for occasions when a more thorough cleaning is necessary and the shoes are suitable for it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Washing Leather or Suede Sneakers

Water and machine agitation can seriously damage these materials.

Using Hot Water

High temperatures can affect certain fabrics, colors, and adhesives.

Adding Too Much Detergent

Excess detergent can be difficult to rinse out and may leave residue on the sneakers.

Using Bleach Without Checking

Bleach can discolor or damage many shoe materials.

Using High Dryer Heat

Heat can deform sneakers and weaken adhesives.

Skipping the Pre-Clean

Large pieces of mud and dirt should be removed before the shoes go into the washing machine.

Washing Damaged Sneakers

A machine cycle can worsen loose soles, torn fabric, or weak stitching.

When Hand Cleaning Is a Better Choice

Even if a sneaker is technically washable, hand cleaning may be the better option when the shoes only have a small amount of dirt.

Use a soft brush or cloth with an appropriate cleaning solution and focus on the affected areas.

This avoids unnecessary exposure to the agitation and moisture of a complete washing cycle.

Quick Sneaker Washing Checklist

Before putting your sneakers in the washing machine:

✓ Check the manufacturer's instructions
✓ Remove laces and removable insoles
✓ Brush off loose dirt and mud
✓ Inspect for damage
✓ Use a laundry bag if recommended
✓ Choose a gentle cycle
✓ Use cold or cool water when permitted
✓ Use mild detergent
✓ Avoid bleach unless specifically approved
✓ Air-dry when recommended
✓ Avoid high heat

Final Verdict

Yes, some sneakers can be washed in a washing machine, particularly certain canvas, cotton, nylon, and synthetic styles. However, machine washing isn't suitable for every type of sneaker.

Always check the manufacturer's instructions before washing. When machine washing is allowed, prepare the shoes properly, use a gentle cycle and suitable detergent, and avoid excessive heat during drying. Leather, suede, and delicate sneakers are generally better cleaned using methods specifically designed for those materials.

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