The Do’s and Don’ts of Washing Sneakers in a Machine

Sneakers are built to take a beating, whether it’s running errands, hitting the gym, or just day-to-day wear. But eventually, they start to look less than fresh. The good news? In many cases, you can wash your sneakers in a washing machine. The bad news? If you don’t do it properly,

you risk damaging both your shoes and the washer.

To help you out, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the do’s and don’ts of machine-washing sneakers.

The Do’s

1. Do Check the Label: Not all sneakers are washing-machine friendly. Fabric, canvas, and synthetic sneakers usually wash well, while leather, suede, and delicate materials should always be cleaned by hand.

2. Do Remove Laces and Insoles: Laces can tangle, and insoles can hold water. Wash the laces separately in a mesh bag, and air-dry insoles on their own.

3. Do Use a Mesh Bag or Pillowcase: Placing your sneakers in a mesh laundry bag (or an old pillowcase) protects them and your washing machine from unnecessary wear and tear.

4. Do Add Towels to the Load: Washing sneakers alone can cause loud banging and potentially damage the machine. Adding a few towels helps balance the load and reduces noise.

5. Do Use Cold Water and Gentle Cycle: Hot water can warp rubber and weaken glue. Stick to cold water and a gentle cycle for the best results.

6. Do Air Dry: Always air-dry your sneakers. High heat from the dryer can melt adhesives and damage the shoe structure. Instead, stuff them with paper towels to absorb moisture and help them keep their shape.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Wash Leather or Suede Sneakers: These materials don’t handle water well. Instead, use specialty cleaners or a damp cloth for spot cleaning.

2. Don’t Overdo the Detergent: A little goes a long way. Too much detergent can leave residue that’s hard to rinse out and might attract dirt later.

3. Don’t Forget to Prep First: Remove excess dirt and mud with a brush or cloth before tossing sneakers into the machine. This prevents clogging and ensures a more effective wash.

4. Don’t Use Bleach Unless Absolutely Necessary: Bleach can weaken fabrics and cause yellowing. If you’re aiming for bright whites, try a sneaker-safe cleaner instead.

5. Don’t Rush the Drying Process: Sneakers may take a day or two to fully dry. Avoid shortcuts like hair dryers or heaters, which can warp or crack the materials.

Final Thoughts

Washing sneakers in a machine can be a game-changer, if you do it the right way. Follow these do’s and don’ts, and you’ll have sneakers that look (and smell) almost as good as new without risking damage.

At Stone Drive Coin Laundry, our high-capacity machines are perfect for handling bulky items like sneakers, bedding, and more. Stop by and let us help make laundry day easier!

Located at 1700 Pinebrook Dr., Suite 2, Kingsport, TN 37660