How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your sneakers fresh and clean doesn’t have to mean hand-washing or dry cleaning. With the right washing machine technique, you can safely clean your favorite kicks without damage—just follow this expert guide.

Not all sneakers are machine-washable—always check the care label first. For machine-worthy pairs, place them in a mesh laundry bag to protect soles and seams. Use cold water, gentle detergent, and avoid bleach or harsh chemicals. Select a delicate or hand-wash cycle with low agitation to prevent stretching or color fading. Remove sneakers promptly after washing and air-dry away from direct heat to maintain shape and material integrity.

Begin by removing laces and any detachable components like insoles or clips. Brush off dirt before loading. Use a soft brush or cloth with mild detergent—never scrub aggressively. Avoid overloading the machine to ensure even cleaning and prevent damage from friction. Place sneakers on the drum carefully, ensuring they don’t overlap or get tangled.

Once the cycle ends, gently shake out excess water and lay sneakers flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid wringing or twisting, which can distort their form. Once dry, reattach laces and store in a breathable shoe bag to preserve freshness. Regular maintenance extends lifespan and keeps your sneakers looking sharp.

Washing sneakers in a washing machine offers a convenient, effective cleaning method when done correctly. By following these steps, you protect your investment and maintain performance and style. For best results, always inspect your sneakers first and prioritize gentle care—your next favorite pair deserves the right treatment.

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. 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.

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. 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. 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. 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.

Discover how to safely wash sneakers in the washing machine using Tide detergent and Downy Rinse. Follow these tips for fresh and clean shoes!