Washing Sneakers in Washing Machine: Right Program & Key Tips

Your favorite sneakers accompany you on countless adventures, but inevitably end up accumulating dirt, dust, and bad odors. Washing them by hand can be tedious and doesn't always provide the desired results. Then the big question arises: can you wash sneakers in the washing machine? The answer is yes, in many cases, but with nuances and precautions. The secret lies in knowing which program to use for washing sneakers in the washing machine and following key steps to avoid damaging them or your appliance.

If you want to restore cleanliness to your sneakers without unnecessary risks, this guide will explain in detail how to do it safely and effectively, from preparation to final drying.

Are All Sneakers Washer-Safe?

No! This is the first and most important point. Before putting your sneakers in the drum, you must consider the material:

• Generally YES, can be washed:
  • Canvas or Fabric Sneakers: Like classic Converse or fabric Vans, and many running or casual sports shoes made of synthetic mesh (polyester, nylon).
  • Synthetic Material Sneakers: Many sneakers made primarily of durable plastics or rubbers.
• Generally should NOT be washed (or with extreme care and at your own risk):
  • Leather Sneakers: Water and detergent can dry out, crack, and deform leather. They require specific manual cleaning. Learn how to care for leather.
  • Suede or Nubuck Sneakers: Even more delicate than smooth leather. Water stains and mats them irreversibly. They need brushing and specific dry products. Discover how to clean suede.
  • Sneakers with Delicate Embellishments: Sequins, rhinestones, complex embroidery, LED lights... could detach or be damaged by agitation.
  • Sneakers with Technical Membranes (e.g., Gore-Tex): Although some can be washed, very specific instructions must be followed to avoid damaging the waterproof and breathable membrane. Consult our guide on how to wash Gore-Tex.

The Golden Rule: Always check the manufacturer's label. If there's no label or you have doubts, manual cleaning is safer.

Meticulous Preparation: Steps Before Washing

Don't just throw sneakers straight from the closet into the washer. Good preparation is essential:

1. Remove Laces and Insoles: Untie and remove the laces. Also take out the insoles if they are removable. These items wash better separately (laces can go in a small mesh bag with the sneakers or be hand-washed; insoles are best hand-washed with a brush and mild soap so they don't lose shape).
2. Thorough Surface Cleaning: This step is crucial! Use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great) to remove as much surface dirt as possible: dried mud, dust, sand, grass... Pay special attention to the soles and grooves. You can use a damp cloth to help. Why is this important? It prevents all that dirt from ending up in your washing machine's filter or redepositing onto the sneakers.
3. Protective Mesh Bag: Place each sneaker (or the pair if they fit loosely) into a zippered mesh laundry bag. If you don't have one, an old pillowcase tied shut can work. This serves a dual purpose:
   • Protects the sneakers from snagging or excessive banging.
   • Protects the washing machine drum from impacts by the sneakers.

   Although some wash without a bag, it's highly recommended.

4. Add "Cushioning": To prevent the sneakers from banging violently against the drum (which can damage both the sneakers and the washer, causing noise), add 3-4 old towels or thick rags (in non-bleeding colors) to the same wash load. They will act as shock absorbers.

Choosing the Right Program and Settings (The Key!)

Here lies the crux of washing sneakers in the machine without ruining them:

• Program: ALWAYS DELICATE! Choose the gentlest cycle your washing machine offers. Look for names like "Delicate," "Hand wash," "Wool," or even "Sportswear" (as long as it's a cold, short cycle). Avoid normal, intensive, or long programs.
• Temperature: COLD WATER! Fundamental. Always use cold water or a maximum of 30°C (86°F). Hot water can deform the sneakers, unglue the soles (which are often attached with heat-sensitive adhesives), and cause colors to fade.
• Detergent: LIQUID and MILD. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Powder detergent might not dissolve well in cold water and could leave white residue. Don't use too much.
• Fabric Softener: NEVER! Softener can leave residue that affects the technical materials of sports sneakers (reducing breathability) or simply leave a film that attracts more dirt.
• Spin Cycle: OFF or MINIMUM! This is another critical point. A fast spin cycle can brutally deform sneakers and damage the washer due to impacts. Ideally, disable the spin cycle completely. If you can't, select the lowest possible speed (e.g., 400 rpm, never more than 600 rpm).

The Washing Process: Step-by-Step

1. Place the cushioning towels or rags in the drum.
2. Add the mesh bag with the sneakers. Ensure there's enough space; don't force the load.
3. Add the correct dose of mild liquid detergent to the dispenser.
4. Select the delicate program, cold water, and disable/minimize the spin cycle.
5. Start the cycle.
6. Once finished, immediately remove the sneakers and towels.

Drying: The Final Phase (Dryer Prohibited!)

Washing the sneakers is only half the battle. Correct drying is essential for them to retain their shape and not get damaged.

• NEVER USE THE DRYER! The intense heat of the dryer is the number one enemy of sneakers. It can:
  • Deform the sneaker's structure.
  • Unglue soles and other glued elements.
  • Shrink or damage materials (especially rubber and synthetics).
  • Damage the dryer drum from impacts.
  • Did you know heat is one reason the dryer can shrink other types of clothes? With sneakers, the risk is even greater.
• Air Drying (Ideal): The best option is to let them air dry.
  • Stuff Them: Stuff crumpled paper towels or newspaper (without ink that could transfer, be careful with printed newspaper) inside the sneakers. This helps absorb moisture from the inside and maintain shape. Change the paper when it gets damp.
  • Suitable Location: Place them in a dry, well-ventilated place in the shade. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight (can degrade colors and materials) and direct heat sources (radiators, heaters).
  • Patience: Depending on humidity and ventilation, they might take one or two days (or more) to dry completely. Make sure they are 100% dry inside before wearing or storing them to prevent bad odors and mold.

What About Laces and Insoles?

• Laces: You can put them in a small mesh bag and wash them with the sneakers, or hand wash them with soap and water. If they are white and very dirty, you can soak them in a little diluted bleach (if cotton) or percarbonate.
• Insoles: Best to hand wash them with a soft brush, lukewarm water, and neutral soap. Rinse them well and let them air dry completely before putting them back. Washing them in the machine can deform them.

Ensure everything is perfectly dry before reassembling your sneakers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Washing Sneakers

Washing your fabric or synthetic sneakers in the washing machine can be a great way to bring them back to life, as long as you follow these precautions. Remember the key is preparation, choosing the right program (delicate, cold, and no spin!), and, above all, patient air drying.