Introduction
Do you have a pair of tennis shoes that are looking a little worse for wear? Are they covered in dirt and mud and need a good cleaning? If so, you’re probably wondering if it’s possible to wash them in the washing machine. The answer is yes – but there is a certain process that should be followed to ensure that your shoes come out clean and undamaged.
In this article, we’ll discuss the steps that should be taken when washing tennis shoes in a washing machine. We’ll go over how to prepare the shoes, what cycle to use, why detergent is important, why an old pillowcase is essential, and why air-drying is preferable to using the dryer. By the end of this article, you should have all the information you need to safely and effectively clean your tennis shoes in the washing machine.
Prepare the Shoes
The first step in washing your tennis shoes in the washing machine is to prepare them for cleaning. This means removing the laces, insoles, and any loose dirt or debris from the shoes. This is important because these items can get caught in the washer or cause damage to the shoes during the washing process.
Once the laces, insoles, and dirt have been removed, you should also check the shoes for any signs of wear or damage. If there are any weak spots or holes, consider hand-washing the shoes instead of using the washing machine to avoid further damage.
Choose the Right Cycle
Once the shoes are prepared, it’s time to choose the right cycle for your washing machine. You should always use a gentle cycle with cold water to clean your tennis shoes. Hot water can cause the colors to fade and can even cause shrinkage, so it’s best to stick with cold water. Additionally, a gentle cycle will help to protect the material of the shoes and prevent damage.
It’s also important to note that if your washing machine has an agitator, it is best to avoid using it. The agitator can cause damage to the shoes, so it’s best to opt for a washer without one.
Add Detergent
Once you’ve chosen the right cycle, it’s time to add detergent or a specialty shoe cleaner to the washer. You only need to add a small amount of detergent or cleaner; too much can cause the colors to fade or the material to break down. Additionally, you should avoid using fabric softener as it can make the shoes less breathable.
Using a detergent or cleaner will help to remove dirt and debris from the shoes and will leave them looking fresh and clean. It’s important to use a detergent specifically designed for washing shoes, as regular laundry detergents may not be strong enough to remove tough stains.
Use an Old Pillowcase
Once you’ve added detergent to the washer, it’s time to put the shoes in the machine. To protect the shoes from getting damaged, you should place them in an old pillowcase before putting them in the washer. This will help to reduce friction and keep the shoes from getting tangled in the washer.
Additionally, using an old pillowcase will help to keep the laces and insoles from getting lost in the washer. This is especially important if you plan on re-lacing the shoes after they’ve been washed.
Air-Dry
Once the washing cycle is complete, it’s important to air-dry the shoes rather than placing them in the dryer. The heat from the dryer can cause the colors to fade and can even cause shrinkage, so it’s best to avoid using it. Instead, stuff the shoes with newspaper and let them sit overnight to allow them to air-dry.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a fan to speed up the drying process. Just make sure that the fan isn’t blowing directly on the shoes, as this can cause the material to stiffen and can lead to cracking.
Re-lace
Once the shoes are completely dry, it’s time to replace the laces and insoles. This is important because the laces and insoles provide support and cushioning for your feet, and replacing them will help to extend the life of your shoes.
You should also inspect the shoes for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If there are any weak spots or holes, you may want to consider hand-washing the shoes instead of using the washing machine to avoid further damage.
Conclusion
Washing your tennis shoes in the washing machine is a great way to keep them looking fresh and clean. However, it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure that your shoes come out undamaged. Start by removing the laces, insoles, and any loose dirt or debris from the shoes. Then, choose a gentle cycle with cold water and add a small amount of detergent or specialty shoe cleaner to the washer. Put the shoes in an old pillowcase before placing them in the washer, and then air-dry the shoes by stuffing them with newspaper and letting them sit overnight. Finally, replace the laces and insoles once the shoes are dry. By following these steps, you should be able to safely and effectively clean your tennis shoes in the washing machine.
