Introduction
Have you ever been in a situation where you need to quickly clean your shoes but don’t have the time or energy to do it by hand? You may be tempted to put your shoes in the washing machine, but is that really a good idea? Can you put shoes in the washer?
This article will break down all the important information you need to know about washing shoes in the washing machine. We’ll cover the steps for safely washing shoes in the washing machine, types of shoes that should never go in the washer, tips for cleaning shoes in the washing machine without damaging them, and the pros and cons of washing shoes in the washing machine.
How to Clean Shoes in the Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you decide to take the plunge and wash your shoes in the washing machine, make sure you follow these steps. They will help you safely and effectively clean your shoes in the washing machine.
Step 1: Check the Label
Before putting any type of shoe in the washing machine, make sure you check the label. Some shoes can be washed in the washing machine, while others should only be cleaned by hand. If there is no label on the shoe, then assume it cannot be washed in the washing machine.
Step 2: Prepare the Washing Machine
Once you’ve confirmed that the shoes can be washed in the washing machine, it’s time to prepare the machine for use. Make sure you remove any lint or debris from the drum of the washing machine. Also, check the settings and make sure you select a gentle cycle and cold water.
Step 3: Load the Shoes
Now it’s time to load the shoes into the washing machine. Place the shoes in a mesh bag to protect them from damage during the cycle. It’s also a good idea to add a few towels or other pieces of clothing to the load to keep the shoes from banging against each other. This will help prevent damage to the shoes.
Step 4: Choose the Appropriate Cycle and Detergent
Next, select the appropriate cycle for the load size and the type of fabric. For example, if you are washing sneakers, choose the delicate cycle. In addition, make sure you use a mild detergent specifically designed for washing delicate fabrics.
Step 5: Dry the Shoes
Once the cycle has finished, remove the shoes from the washing machine and air dry them. Never put shoes in the dryer as this can cause them to shrink or become misshapen.
What You Need to Know Before Putting Shoes in the Washer
Before you put any type of shoe in the washing machine, there are a few things you need to consider. First, some types of shoes should never be placed in the washing machine. Second, check your shoes for any signs of wear or damage before placing them in the washing machine.
Types of Shoes That Should Never Be Put in the Washer
If your shoes have any of the following features, then they should not be placed in the washing machine: leather, suede, velvet, sequins, fur, glitter, rhinestones, decorative beads, or any other type of embellishment.
Checking Shoes for Damage
Before washing any type of shoe in the washing machine, check it for any signs of wear or damage. Look for fraying seams, missing pieces, or any other type of damage. If your shoes have any of these issues, then they should not be placed in the washing machine.
Can You Put All Types of Shoes in the Washing Machine?
The answer to this question depends on the type of shoes you are trying to clean. Here is a breakdown of the different types of shoes and whether or not you can put them in the washing machine.
Sneakers
Sneakers are one of the most common types of shoes and can generally be placed in the washing machine. However, make sure you check the label first to confirm that the shoes are machine washable. Also, make sure to select a gentle cycle and cold water.
Leather Shoes
Leather shoes should never be placed in the washing machine. Instead, they should be cleaned by hand using a specialized leather cleaner. This will help preserve the integrity of the leather.
Slippers
Slippers are usually made of synthetic materials and can generally be placed in the washing machine. However, make sure you check the label first to confirm that the slippers are machine washable.
High Heels
High heels should never be placed in the washing machine. Instead, they should be cleaned by hand using a soft cloth and mild soap. This will help preserve the shape of the heel.
A Guide to Washing Shoes in the Washing Machine Without Damaging Them
Washing shoes in the washing machine can be a great way to quickly and easily clean your shoes. However, if you don’t take the proper precautions, you can end up damaging your shoes. Here are a few tips for washing shoes in the washing machine without damaging them.
Use a Mesh Bag
When washing shoes in the washing machine, it’s a good idea to place them in a mesh bag. This will help prevent the shoes from banging against each other and becoming damaged.
Adjust the Water Temperature
Make sure you adjust the water temperature to the appropriate setting for the type of shoe. For example, if you are washing sneakers, the water should be set to cold. Otherwise, the shoes may become damaged.
Don’t Overload the Machine
It’s important to not overload the washing machine when washing shoes. Otherwise, the shoes may become damaged due to excessive movement during the cycle.
The Pros and Cons of Washing Shoes in the Washing Machine
Washing shoes in the washing machine can be a great way to quickly and easily clean your shoes. However, there are both pros and cons to washing shoes in the washing machine.
Pros
The main benefit of washing shoes in the washing machine is that it is fast and easy. It also helps to save time and energy since you don’t have to clean the shoes by hand. Additionally, washing shoes in the washing machine can help remove stubborn stains and odors.
Cons
One of the main drawbacks of washing shoes in the washing machine is that it can be hard on the shoes. The agitation and heat can cause the shoes to become misshapen or shrink. Additionally, certain types of shoes should never be placed in the washing machine, such as leather or suede shoes.
Tips for Cleaning Shoes in the Washing Machine Safely
If you decide to wash your shoes in the washing machine, make sure you follow these tips to ensure the shoes come out looking as good as new.
Use Low Heat Settings
Make sure you select a low heat setting when washing shoes in the washing machine. High heat settings can cause the shoes to shrink or become misshapen.
Pre-Treat Stains
If your shoes have any stubborn stains, it’s a good idea to pre-treat them before washing. This will help ensure that the stains are completely removed during the cycle.
Air Dry Shoes
Once the cycle is finished, remove the shoes from the washing machine and air dry them. Never put shoes in the dryer as this can cause them to shrink or become misshapen.
Don’t Put Shoes in the Dryer
Finally, never put shoes in the dryer after washing them in the washing machine. The high heat of the dryer can cause the shoes to shrink or become misshapen.
Conclusion
Washing shoes in the washing machine can be a great way to quickly and easily clean your shoes. However, it’s important to take the proper precautions to ensure that your shoes come out looking as good as new. Make sure you check the label first to confirm that the shoes are machine washable. Additionally, use a mesh bag, adjust the water temperature, and air dry the shoes after the cycle is finished.
