How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine with a Pillowcase?
Regular and thorough cleaning of shoes not only helps control problems like ugly stains and lasting shoe odours but also increases their lifespan.
Learning how to clean your shoes with a washing machine is essential as it saves time and effort. However, keep in mind that not all shoes are machine washable. Always read the labels before washing shoes in a washer.
In this guide, I will discuss how to clean shoes in a washing machine without a mesh bag and the different types of shoes that can be washed in the machine.
Related:
1. How to Dry Your Shoes Quickly
Can I Wash My Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Whether or not your shoes are machine washable depends on the material used to manufacture the shoes.
Always check the care labels before washing the shoes. These are usually located under the shoe’s tongue or somewhere along the heel and ankle.
Shoes Not suitable for Machine Washing:
As a general rule of thumb, it is advisable not to wash shoes made with animal fabrics such as:
- Leather
- Suede
- Vinyl
- Rubber
Water can easily damage these shoes. To clean them, use a cleaning product specially designed for these fabrics or get them cleaned by a professional.
Likewise, shoes made with materials like:
- Satin
- Silk
- Beading
- Embellishments like glitter or buckles
do not do well when cleaned with water and should be taken to a professional cleaner.
Shoes Suitable with Machine Washing:
Shoes made from textile materials are able to withstand machine washing and can be cleaned in a washer. These materials include:
- Cotton
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Canvas
Shoes made with these materials are durable enough to withstand the spinning motion of the washing machine. Examples of these shoes are trainers, running shoes, and tennis shoes.
Tip: If your shoe labels indicate “hand wash only,” you can still wash your shoes in a washing machine on the “hand wash setting.” Just proceed cautiously.
Best Way to Wash Your Shoes in a Washing Machine Without a Laundry Bag: A Step-by-Step Guide
Required Tools and Materials:
- Washing Machine
- Liquid Laundry Detergent
- An Empty Pillowcase
- A Toothbrush
- An Old Towel
Check the Tag for Care Instructions:
Before washing the shoes, read the care labels for washing instructions. You can usually find them under the tongue, or check the manufacturer’s website for recommended cleaning steps.
Follow these instructions to find the best way to wash your shoes based on their fabric type. Note the recommended water temperature and whether you can use chlorine bleach.
If you cannot fully wash the shoes in a machine or by hand, use an old toothbrush to remove surface dirt or a damp cloth as an alternative.
Always make sure to check the shoe material before putting them in the washing machine to avoid damage.
Getting Your Shoes Ready for Washing:
1. Remove the Insoles and Laces:
Remove the laces and put them in the pillowcase or a laundry bag to avoid them wrapping around any parts of the drum, or you can hand wash them after soaking them in detergent water.
If your shoe insoles are removable, take them out and clean them by wiping them with a damp sponge or a rag dipped in a soapy solution.
Avoid washing insoles in the washer as they can become waterlogged and take a long time to dry.
2. Remove the Dirt and Debris:
Use a soft bristle brush to scrub away any loose dirt from the surface, and use a toothbrush to remove dirt from small areas like eyelets.
If the shoes are muddy, rinse them off with a garden hose before placing them in the washing machine.
3. Place Your Shoes in a Pillowcase or Mesh Bag:
After pre-cleaning, place your shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase and tie the top closed to protect them from becoming snagged inside the drum.
4. Add the Shoes to the Washer with Towels:
Once you have placed the shoes inside the pillowcase, load them into the washing machine along with a few old towels or sheets for extra cushioning and to balance the load. Avoid using new towels because they could leach excess dye that could stain your shoes.
Set the machine to a gentle wash cycle using cold water and set the spin setting to slow or no spin. Add liquid detergent and avoid using powdered detergent as it can leave residue on your shoes.
Once you have loaded your shoes, it may take 30 to 45 minutes to wash them.
Tip: Keep the water temperature below 30 degrees to prevent the color of your shoes from fading.
5. Air Dry the Shoes:
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the shoes from the pillowcase and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
To speed up the drying process, stuff the shoes with old paper or toilet paper to help them retain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Avoid drying the shoes in the dryer because it may melt the glue.
Conclusion:
Cleaning shoes in the washing machine requires less time and effort, but keep in mind that not all shoes are machine washable.
Therefore, it is necessary to read the labels provided on the shoes before washing them in the washer.
FAQs
Yes, you can use a pillowcase instead of a mesh bag to wash your shoes in the washing machine. After prewashing, put the shoes inside the pillowcase and tie it with the shoelace if it does not have a zipper.
Not all shoes can be washed in the washing machine, but you can wash shoes made from canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester in the washer. It’s recommended to read the labels provided on the shoes before washing to avoid any damage.
Washing shoes with other usable clothes is not recommended as the dye in your clothes could stain your shoes. Additionally, the shoes may be dirty and contain bacteria or other contaminants that you do not want to transfer to your clothes.
