Learning how to machine wash running shoes is a great way to keep your gear fresh. Cleaning your running shoes in a washing machine can be done carefully to extend their life without damaging materials. This method saves you time and effort compared to tedious hand washing.
Many runners worry about ruining their shoes. With the right prep and settings, you can safely clean them. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process.
We will cover everything from pre-wash checks to drying techniques. You’ll get your shoes looking and smelling new again.
How To Machine Wash Running Shoes
This is your complete roadmap for the machine washing process. Following these steps in order is crucial for protecting your investment. Do not skip the preparation phase.
Essential Pre-Wash Preparation Steps
Preparation is the most important part of the entire process. Rushing into washing can lead to damaged shoes. These steps ensure your shoes are ready for the machine.
Check the Manufacturer’s Care Label
First, locate the care label inside the shoe, usually under the tongue or along the heel collar. Look for any specific washing instructions or warnings. If the label explicitly says “Do Not Machine Wash,” you should heed that advice and consider hand washing instead.
Remove Laces and Insoles
Take out the shoelaces and removable insoles or sock liners. Washing these components separately prevents them from tangling or causing damage inside the drum. It also allows for a more thorough clean for each part.
- Laces: You can place them in a mesh laundry bag or a tied pillowcase.
- Insoles: These are often best cleaned by hand with a mild soap, as machine washing can sometimes warp their shape.
Brush Off Excess Dirt and Debris
Use a dry, soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly) to knock off loose mud, dirt, leaves, and gravel. This prevents your washing machine from becoming clogged with debris. It also stops abrasive particles from grinding against the shoe’s fabric during the cycle.
Choosing The Right Washing Machine Settings
Modern washing machines offer many cycles, but only a few are shoe-friendly. Selecting the wrong one is a common mistake that can shorten your shoe’s lifespan.
Opt for a Gentle or Delicate Cycle
Always choose the gentlest cycle available on your machine. This is typically labeled “Delicate,” “Hand Wash,” or “Gentle.” These cycles use slower agitation and spin speeds, which mimicks careful hand washing and reduces stress on the shoe’s glue and materials.
Use Cold Water Only
Set the water temperature to cold. Hot water can degrade the adhesives that hold the shoe together, cause colors to bleed, and may shrink or warp certain synthetic materials. Cold water is effective for cleaning and is much safer.
Skip the Spin Cycle If Possible
If your machine allows you to disable the high-speed spin cycle, do so. The forceful spinning can throw shoes against the drum, potentially damaging their structure. If you cannot disable it, the gentle cycle’s slower spin is acceptable.
Selecting And Using Cleaning Products
You do not need special cleaners. Harsh detergents can break down technical fabrics. Stick with simple, mild options.
- Mild Laundry Detergent: Use a small amount of a standard, liquid, dye-free, and fragrance-free detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as they can degrade materials and reduce moisture-wicking properties.
- Alternative: Baking Soda and Vinegar: For a natural clean and odor fight, you can add half a cup of baking soda to the drum with the shoes and use half a cup of white vinegar in the detergent dispenser. This combination helps neutralize stubborn smells.
The Step-by-Step Washing Process
Now, you are ready to load the machine. Follow this sequence for the best results.
- Place Shoes in a Mesh Bag or Pillowcase: Put each shoe into a separate mesh laundry bag or a tied pillowcase. This provides an extra layer of protection against the drum’s movements.
- Add Towels for Balance: Throw in two or three old towels. They act as buffers, cushioning the shoes and helping to balance the load, which reduces noise and wear on your machine.
- Load the Machine: Place the bagged shoes and towels into the washing machine drum. Distribute them evenly.
- Add Detergent: Pour a small amount (about half the usual quantity) of mild detergent into the dispenser.
- Start the Cycle: Double-check your settings: Cold water, gentle cycle. Then start the machine.
Proper Drying Techniques
How you dry your shoes is just as important as how you wash them. Never, ever use a clothes dryer or direct heat source.
Air Drying Is the Only Safe Method
Remove the shoes from their bags immediately after the cycle ends. Stuff them loosely with crumpled paper towels or white newspaper. This helps absorb moisture from the inside and maintains the shoe’s shape as they dry.
- Why it works: The paper draws out the internal dampness that air alone cannot reach.
- Replace Paper: Change the paper every few hours if the shoes are very wet.
Find the Perfect Drying Spot
Place the stuffed shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heaters, or radiators. A cool, dry room with a fan circulating air is ideal. Direct heat can cause materials to become brittle and glue to fail.
Let them dry naturally for 24 to 48 hours. Be patient; thorough drying prevents mold and mildew growth inside the shoe. Do not wear them while they are even slightly damp.
Cleaning Laces And Insoles Separately
For a complete refresh, clean the other components. This makes a significant difference in overall freshness.
Machine wash the laces in the mesh bag along with the shoes or separately. For insoles, hand washing is often safer. Use a small amount of mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush to gently scrub them. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely before reinserting them.
When You Should Avoid Machine Washing
Machine washing is not suitable for all types of running shoes. Recognizing these exceptions will save your specialty footwear.
- Leather or Suede Shoes: These materials require specific cleaning methods and will be ruined in a washing machine.
- Electronics-Enabled Shoes: Any shoes with embedded electronics, lights, or advanced digital components should never be submerged or machine washed.
- Very Old or Delicate Shoes: If the shoes are already falling apart or the midsole is extremely cracked, the agitation might finish them off.
- Racing Spikes or Track Shoes: These are designed for lightweight performance, not durability, and often cannot withstand machine washing.
Maintaining Shoes Between Washes
Regular upkeep reduces the frequency of needed deep cleans. It also prolongs the time between necessary machine washes.
After each run, knock your shoes together to remove loose dirt. If they are muddy, let the mud dry completely and then brush it off. Use a disinfectant spray designed for shoes to control odor-causing bacteria. Stuffing them with cedar shoe trees or dry paper after runs helps absorb moisture and maintain form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Put My Running Shoes in the Dryer?
No, you should never put running shoes in a clothes dryer. The intense heat can melt glues, warp the midsole foam, shrink materials, and significantly shorten the shoe’s lifespan. Always allow them to air dry naturally.
How Often Should I Wash My Running Shoes?
A good rule is to machine wash them only when necessary, typically every 4-6 weeks of regular use, or when they become visibly dirty or develop odors. Over-washing can accelerate wear. Focus on spot cleaning and airing them out after each use to extend time between full washes.
What Is the Best Way to Wash Shoes Without a Washing Machine?
For hand washing, use a soft brush, cool water, and a small amount of mild detergent. Gently scrub the exterior and rinse thoroughly. The key steps for drying remain the same: stuff with paper and air dry away from heat.
Can Machine Washing Damage the Cushioning in My Shoes?
If done correctly using the gentle method described, machine washing should not damage the cushioning. The risk comes from harsh cycles, hot water, or improper drying. The midsole foam is designed to be durable, but excessive heat is its enemy.
Is It Safe to Wash Waterproof Running Shoes?
Check the manufacturer’s instructions. Many modern waterproof membranes (like Gore-Tex) are machine washable to restore their water repellency. Use a technical cleaner recommended for waterproof gear and follow the specific care instructions. Avoid fabric softener, as it can clog the membrane.