How to Clean White Shoes in a Washing Machine is a skill that has captivated many a shoe enthusiast seeking to rescue their stained kicks. While it's not always a straightforward process, with the right techniques and materials, you can safely and successfully clean your white shoes in a washing machine.
Understanding the Risks
Cleaning white shoes in a washing machine can be a gamble, but not all shoes are made equally. Delicate materials, such as suede or nubuck, should never be subjected to washing in a machine. Similarly, shoes with loose threads, broken zippers, or weak stitching will not hold up well to the harsh conditions inside a washing machine. Check your shoes for warning labels and material tags, and if in doubt, it's wise to err on the side of caution.
Preparing Your Shoes for Washing
Before washing, you'll need to remove the laces, tongues, and insoles. If your shoes have an removable liner or insole, take these out as well. Set the liner aside to wash separately if you choose to machine wash it. Washing the liner alone using a gentle cycle will prevent any potential damage from being transferred to the rest of the shoe.
Next, clean the exterior using a soft brush or cloth and a mild soap solution. If stains are particularly stubborn, you can use an old toothbrush and a solution of soap and warm water to target tough spots. Be sure to brush in the direction of the shoe's fabric to prevent pushing the stain further into the material.
In case you have suede or nubuck shoes that require special cleaning, we have listed the required process in the table below.
| Type of Material | Cleaning Solution | Washing Conditions | Drying Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suede | Use a suede cleaner with a soft brush | Air dry on low heat or hand wash | Allow to air dry. |
| Nubuck | Hand wash with a mild soap solution | Use a gentle cycle; hot water may affect the leather | Moonlight dry - Air dry slowly in a cool place |
The Art of Washing
Once your shoes are prepared, it's time for the washing machine. Remove any dancing or restrictive items like jewelry, lanyards, or jingling equipment. Fill the drum loosely with two or three like items of the same material, as some fabrics may stretch or strain the shoes. Regular washing colorants or laundry bags are optional so ensure putting an old towel in the machine to ensure the shoes don't scratch when they hit moving parts.
Then start the washing machine and fill the cap with cold water and use the "bulging on delicate mode" that hottest water used is low to forty degrees Celsius. Check each shoe during the cycle to avoid rubbing or squashing if one shoe moves around while their mate is steady.
Safety Procedures
Leave your shoes in the washing machine to synchronize for several hours after the washing cycle completes. Don't touch them for at least a day before drying them at a low temperature with a cooling device. Don't use moisturizer or fabric protector made for shoes after washing, as this can damage your trim.
