How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine Without Damage

Dirty sneakers don’t have to end your style—learn how to wash them efficiently in a washing machine while preserving their quality and longevity.

Washing sneakers in a washing machine is safe when done correctly. Start by turning your sneakers inside out to protect the outer fabric and soles. Remove laces and insoles, and shake off loose dirt. Place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tearing. Use a gentle, cold-water-friendly detergent—avoid bleach or harsh chemicals. Run a short cycle on the delicate or wool setting, ensuring the machine isn’t overloaded to maintain cleaning effectiveness without stressing the material.

Before machine washing, inspect seams and zippers for loose threads or debris. Spot clean stubborn stains with a mild detergent beforehand to avoid spreading. Never soak sneakers for long periods; keep the cycle brief. Use cold water to prevent color fading and fabric distortion. Never apply fabric softener, as it can clog filters and damage soles.

After washing, gently shake off excess water and reshape the sneakers before air drying. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent material warping. Let them air-dry completely—never use a dryer or iron soles. Store clean sneakers in breathable bags to maintain freshness and extend lifespan.

Washing sneakers in a washing machine is a time-saving, effective method when done carefully. Follow these steps to keep your footwear clean, vibrant, and durable. For best results, combine machine washing with regular maintenance—your new favorite shoes will stay fresh and ready for every occasion.

Here's how to safely wash sneakers in the washing machine-and when to avoid the method. Devonn Vidal, footwear-care specialist and owner of Sneakky Klean, a Miami-based international sneaker-cleaning service with a mission "to provide top-tier cleaning and restoration while promoting sustainability by extending the life of your footwear.". Cleaning sneakers and other soft-soled shoes in the washing machine is usually safe, but there are some things to consider before you toss your shoes in the wash to avoid expensive damage to your machine.

Learn how to ensure your shoes and your washing machine will come out safely if you decide to clean your shoes in the washing machine. A washing machine provides a convenient solution to remove dirt and odors from shoes for a routine refresh. Shoes-especially sneakers -take a beating from Converse sneakers to Allbirds.

You can wash them at home in a washing machine or by hand to remove dirt, stains, and odor. Before tossing your shoes in the washing machine or a tub of water, read the cleaning instructions on the care tag. Mastering how to wash shoes in a washing machine keeps your footwear fresh and ready.

With proper prep, gentle washing, and careful drying, your sneakers stay like new. A guide to cleaning sneakers, leather or suede dress shoes & moreNo matter what kind of lifestyle you lead, your shoes will inevitably get dirty. Luckily, a simple cleaning and toss in the washing machine can remove excess dirt and grime.

What kinds of shoes can go in the washing machine, and how do you clean them without messing them up? Here's what to know about laundering shoes. Muddy, grimy shoes? Machine washing is easy. Running does a number on shoes.

I ran for years - through mud, snow, slush, you name it. When my shoes got filthy, I'd throw them in the wash and switch to another pair. Rinse and repeat, season after season.

All that machine washing could've taken a. Learn how to safely clean sneakers in the washing machine. This guide covers preparation, washing cycles, and drying for fresh, clean shoes.

HGTV shares how to clean sneakers and shoes in the washing machine to keep them looking great. Learn how to remove stains and treat yellowed soles, too.