Gym shoes often carry odors that a proper washer cycle, with the right preparation, can effectively eliminate. If you’re wondering how to wash gym shoes in washer, you’re in the right place. It’s a simple process that can save your favorite pair and keep them fresh for many more workouts.
This guide will walk you through every step. You’ll learn how to prepare your shoes, choose the correct washer settings, and dry them properly. Following these steps helps prevent damage and ensures your shoes come out clean and odor-free.
How To Wash Gym Shoes In Washer
Washing gym shoes in a washing machine is a straightforward task when you know the steps. The key is preparation and using gentle settings. Rushing the process or using harsh cycles can warp the shoes or damage the materials.
This method works for most synthetic athletic shoes, including running shoes and cross-trainers. However, you should avoid washing leather, suede, or shoes with special electronics or glued-on decorations. Always check the manufacturer’s care label first if you can find it.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, collect everything you need. Having your supplies ready makes the process smooth and efficient. You likely have most of these items at home already.
- Old toothbrush or soft brush
- Mild laundry detergent (liquid is often preferred)
- Baking soda or a specialty shoe deodorizer (optional)
- White vinegar (for odor removal)
- 2-4 old towels or pillowcases
- Laces and removable insoles
Pre-Treat Stains And Remove Debris
Never put shoes in the washer caked in mud or dirt. This can clog your machine and won’t clean the shoes properly. Start by knocking the shoes together outside to dislodge dried mud and dirt.
Use the old toothbrush to scrub off any caked-on grime from the soles and sides. For stubborn stains on the fabric, create a paste with a little detergent and water. Gently scrub the stained areas and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
Addressing Specific Stain Types
Different stains may need slighty different approaches. Grass stains often respond well to a pre-treatment with a bit of vinegar. For scuff marks on rubber soles, a magic eraser can work wonders before you even start the wash cycle.
Remove Laces And Insoles
Always take out the laces and any removable insoles. Washing them separately ensures a more thorough clean. You can toss the laces and insoles into a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase tied shut.
This prevents the laces from tangling around the shoes or the washer’s agitator. It also allows water and detergent to reach all surfaces of the insole, where odors commonly linger.
Place Shoes In A Protective Bag Or Pillowcase
This is a crucial step for protecting both your shoes and your washing machine. Placing shoes directly in the drum can cause them to bang around, damaging the shoe’s structure and the machine’s interior.
Put each shoe into an old pillowcase or a dedicated mesh laundry bag. Tie the pillowcase closed with a knot or a rubber band. This cushions the shoes and contains any small parts that might come loose.
Add Towels For Balance
To prevent a loud, unbalanced load, add two or three old towels to the washer. The towels act as buffers, cushioning the shoes and helping to balance the load. This reduces noise and wear on your machine’s bearings.
Make sure the towels are also clean and free of heavy debris. They will get washed along with your shoes, so it’s a good way to get another chore done at the same time.
Select The Correct Washer Settings
Choosing the wrong cycle is a common mistake. You must use a gentle, cold water cycle. Avoid any settings with heat, as it can degrade adhesives and shrink materials.
- Cycle: Delicate, Gentle, or Hand Wash
- Water Temperature: Cold
- Spin Speed: Low or no spin if available
- Detergent: Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softener.
For extra odor fighting, you can add half a cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser. It acts as a natural deodorizer and won’t leave a vinegar smell after the rinse cycle.
Air Dry Your Shoes Completely
Never, ever put gym shoes in the dryer. The intense heat can melt glue, warp soles, and shrink fabric. Always air dry them completely.
Take the shoes out of the pillowcase immediately after the cycle ends. Stuff them loosely with crumpled paper towels or dry white towels to absorb moisture from the inside and help them retain their shape. Replace the stuffing every few hours as it becomes damp.
Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators. A fan pointed in their direction can significantly speed up drying time. Let the insoles and laces dry separately.
Reassemble Your Fresh Shoes
Once everything is completely dry—which can take 24 to 48 hours—you can put your shoes back together. Check the insoles and the toe box area for any remaining dampness.
Thread the clean laces back through the eyelets. Insert the dry insoles. Your gym shoes are now clean, fresh, and ready for your next session without the worry of odors or dirt.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the correct steps. Avoiding these errors will extend the life of your shoes and keep your washing machine running smoothly.
Using Hot Water Or Harsh Cycles
Hot water is the enemy of gym shoes. It can break down the adhesives that hold the shoe together and cause colors to run or fade. Always stick to a cold water wash on a gentle setting to preserve the materials.
Skipping The Protective Bag
Putting shoes in loose is a recipe for damaged shoes and a noisy machine. The constant banging can detach soles and damage the washer’s drum. The pillowcase or mesh bag is a simple but essential layer of protection.
Using Too Much Detergent
Excess detergent doesn’t rinse out easily from the dense materials of a shoe. It can leave a residue that traps dirt and may contribute to odors. Use about half the amount you would for a normal load of laundry.
Putting Shoes In The Dryer
This bears repeating. The dryer’s heat is too intense for the plastics, glues, and foams in athletic shoes. It will dramatically shorten their lifespan. Patience during air drying is non-negotiable.
FAQ: Washing Gym Shoes
You might still have some questions about the process. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cleaning athletic shoes.
Can I Wash All Types Of Gym Shoes In The Washing Machine?
No, not all shoes are washer-safe. Machine washing is generally safe for most modern synthetic athletic shoes. However, avoid washing leather basketball shoes, suede trainers, or shoes with lots of embellishments. Shoes with a leather or “premium” build should be spot-cleaned by hand.
How Often Should I Wash My Gym Shoes?
A good rule of thumb is to wash them every few weeks if you use them regularly. If you notice odors or visible dirt, it’s time for a clean. Washing them too frequently can cause unneccessary wear, so base it on use and condition.
What Is The Best Way To Remove Bad Odors From Shoes?
Prevention is key. Let your shoes air out after every use. Using moisture-wicking socks helps. For existing odors, sprinkle baking soda inside them overnight before you wash. Adding white vinegar to the wash cycle is also highly effective at neutralizing smells.
Can I Use Bleach To Whiten My Shoes?
It is not recommended. Bleach can weaken fabrics and cause yellowing on white rubber soles over time. For whitening, a paste of baking soda and water applied to the rubber parts before washing is a safer alternative. There are also commercial whitening products made for sneakers.
My Shoes Have A Strange Smell After Washing. What Happened?
This usually means they did not dry completely. Moisture trapped inside can lead to mildew growth, which causes a musty smell. Ensure you stuff them with absorbent material and allow ample time for drying in a breezy area. You may need to re-wash them if mildew has set in.
Maintaining Your Gym Shoes Between Washes
Proper care between machine washes keeps your shoes looking and smelling better for longer. A little daily maintenance reduces how often you need to do a deep clean.
Immediate Post-Workout Care
When you take off your shoes after a workout, don’t just toss them in a dark closet. Remove the insoles to let them air out separately. If the insoles are very damp, you can pat them dry with a paper towel.
Stuff the toe box of each shoe with a couple pieces of crumpled newspaper or paper towels. This absorbs sweat and helps maintain the shoe’s shape as it dries. Place them in a well-ventilated spot.
Regular Spot Cleaning
For minor dirt or fresh stains, spot cleaning is your best friend. Keep a soft brush and a mild soap solution handy. A quick scrub on a soiled area right after it happens prevents stains from setting and keeps the overall shoe cleaner.
This approach is especially useful for the midsole and outsole, which tend to pick up dirt quickly. A regular wipe-down can extend the time between full machine washes significantly.
Storing Your Shoes Correctly
Where you store your shoes matters. Avoid airtight containers or plastic bags, as they trap moisture and promote odor-causing bacteria. A shoe rack in a cool, dry place is ideal.
If you need to pack them in a gym bag, use a ventilated shoe bag. Let them air out as soon as you get home. Never store shoes while they are still damp from sweat or weather.
Following this comprehensive guide ensures you can confidently clean your gym shoes in the washer. The process revitalizes your footwear, making every run, lift, or workout more pleasant. With proper preparation and care, your shoes will support you for many more miles to come.