Footwear used on a daily basis gets dirty within a matter of days, with white shoes in particular collecting layers of dust, dirt, and grime very quickly. Cleaning them regularly becomes essential to maintain their condition. People typically rely on brushes and soap to scrub away stains, which often leads to tired hands and physical exertion. This naturally raises the question of whether shoes can be washed in a washing machine just like regular clothes. The answer is yes, you can wash shoes in a washing machine quite easily. Here is a complete guide on how to do it correctly and safely.
Which types of shoes are safe for machine washing?
It is important to know that not all footwear is suited for machine cleaning. You can safely wash sports shoes or running shoes made from canvas, nylon, cotton, and synthetic materials in the washing machine without worrying about severe damage.
Step-by-step process for machine washing shoes
Begin by removing the shoelaces and the inner soles from the footwear. Wash the laces separately by hand and let the insoles air dry naturally. Next, use an old toothbrush to thoroughly brush away any dry mud, pebbles, and dirt stuck in the soles. Make sure there are no large stones or heavy debris left on the upper surface or the soles. Avoid placing shoes directly into the wash drum, as they can bang against the machine walls during the cycle, potentially damaging the drum and tearing the fabric. Instead, place the shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or an old cotton pillowcase and tie the open end securely.
Important precautions during the wash cycle
Along with the bagged shoes, toss a few old towels into the washing machine. These towels act as a buffer and prevent the shoes from slamming hard against the drum walls during the wash. Pour cold water into the machine, add washing powder, and run the cycle on the delicate or gentle mode. Once the wash is complete, take the shoes out immediately. Never dry your shoes in a machine dryer, as the heat can distort their shape and weaken the adhesive glue. Instead, stuff the shoes with tissue paper or old newspaper and place them in a well-ventilated, shaded spot to dry. You can use them again once they are completely dry. You can also read about alkaline water benefits to stay informed on healthy lifestyle habits.
