In the modern world, sneakers are the most common and beloved footwear. It's hard to find a more comfortable option. They can be worn for a walk, in the rain, on vacation, on a hike, or playing sports.
Of course, sneakers aren't immune to dirt and dust, which can leave stains. Even daily wiping, brushing, or cleaning with a cloth can sometimes fail to remove serious stains, requiring more thorough care. You don't always want to spend the entire evening huffing and puffing to keep them looking pristine.
The question arises: Can sneakers be washed in an automatic washing machine? How effective is it and are there any pitfalls?
What you need to know before washing
Some shoe manufacturers firmly believe that undertaking such a washing process is at best reckless. This isn't entirely true.
There are actually some factors to consider when deciding whether to wash your sneakers before throwing them in the washing machine.
What shoes can't be washed?
Not everyone knows which sneakers are washable and which aren't. The decision to wash shoes in the washing machine depends on their quality. Of course, we're not talking about boots here, as it's obvious they shouldn't be thrown in the washing machine. But when it comes to sandals, moccasins, sandals, sneakers, and trainers, washing them is an acceptable, effective cleaning option.
It's safe to say that you shouldn't wash sneakers in a washing machine:
- With rubber, foam or genuine leather or imitation leather soles.
Washing will only lead to disappointment and damage—the sole will peel off and the material will fall apart. However, some leather shoe owners claim that washing was successful and didn't affect the quality of the shoe. 
Cheap, low quality.
Typically, such shoes are made using impractical materials and cheap glue that may not withstand the washing process.- With reflective inserts.
They may come off or peel off. - With damage, flaws and defects.
Washing will completely ruin them. - With protruding foam rubber.
During the spinning process, it can cause damage and lead to clogging of the machine. - Decorated with rhinestones, patches or decorative elements.
During the washing process they may fall off or leave traces of rust. - Suede.
This material is very sensitive to moisture, and after washing they will end up in the trash.
Some people think that you can wash suede sneakers in the washing machine, but the program should be so gentle as not to damage them, but this is very difficult to do.
How to properly wash sneakers in a washing machine
Before loading sports shoes into the washing machine, you need to prepare them and only then can you wash the sneakers in the machine.
How to prepare shoes?
- Shoes are washed thoroughly, and the soles are cleaned of dirt, pebbles, leaves, and sand so that they do not clog the pipe or filter of the washing machine.
- For effective cleaning, you may need an old toothbrush or knitting needle.
- If the stains are long-standing, you can soak the sneakers before washing them.
- After washing the shoes, remove the insoles (if they're not glued) and laces. Hand wash the laces with soap, and clean the insoles thoroughly with a shoe brush.
Drying insoles on a radiator is not recommended, as they may crack. After washing and drying, return them to their original position only after the shoes are completely dry.
The washing process
Next, you'll need a special mesh bag. If you don't have one, you can use a pillowcase. Place the sneakers in it and load them into the washing machine.
If you can't find a pillowcase, then having a few towels or sheets that fit in the washing machine with the sneakers will save the situation.
These manipulations will help avoid damage to the machine, especially if the shoes have decorative elements, and will improve the quality of washing.
What cycle should I use to wash sneakers in the washing machine?
- On the control panel, select the delicate wash program and low speed.
- Spinning and drying should be turned off.
- The temperature shouldn't exceed 40 degrees. If possible, set it to 20 degrees. Higher temperatures increase the risk of shoe fading and peeling.
- All that's left to do is add the powder and start the wash.
Please note that you cannot wash more than two pairs of shoes to avoid damaging the sunroof glass.
Another thing to keep in mind: using regular powder can leave streaks on your shoes. To avoid this, use liquid machine detergent. If you're washing white shoes, adding bleach is acceptable for added effectiveness.
How to dry washed sneakers
Several drying methods:
- Drying on the balcony, but not in direct sunlight. Only suitable for warmer months.
Using a special shoe dryerIt only takes 4 hours, and the ultraviolet light will not only perfectly dry your shoes but also provide antifungal treatment.- Sneakers are possible dry near electrical appliances, having previously filled them with napkins, office paper or toilet paper to prevent deformation.
Newspaper shouldn't be used because it can leave marks. The paper should be changed as often as possible to avoid slowing down the drying process. - If you are going to dry shoes on the radiator, then you need to line it with rags to prevent the sneakers from coming apart while drying. The best drying option is at room temperature.
- Using silica gel beadsThey are placed in both sneakers for 2-3 hours and then removed. Afterwards, the shoes are allowed to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
If you are unsure of the quality of your shoes and the success of the surgery, it is best to hand wash your favorite sneakers.
Shoe care after washing
If the washed shoes contain metal or decorative elements, they should be wiped with a dry cloth to prevent rust.
If you have leather inserts, lubricate them with cream and the result will be amazing.
Many sneaker models are treated with a special water-repellent treatment that will wash out during washing. After the shoes are completely dry, re-spray them with a water-repellent spray.
These simple rules on how to properly wash sneakers in the washing machine will restore your shoes to their fresh and pristine appearance.
