Putting shoes in the washer and dryer can seem like a convenient way to clean them, but there are risks involved that you should consider first. The materials and construction of some shoes may not hold up well to machine washing and high heat drying. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of putting shoes in these appliances.
The Potential Benefits of Washing Shoes in the Machine
Using your washing machine to clean shoes offers some apparent benefits:
- It’s quick and convenient. Just toss them in with your regular laundry load.
- The washer’s agitation cleans the shoes more thoroughly all over.
- It saves the effort of hand washing.
- Some washers have cycles that are gentler on delicates.
Risks of Putting Shoes in the Washer
While it seems easy enough to throw shoes in the wash, there are also some drawbacks and risks to consider:
- The water and agitation can degradation glues, linings, embellishments or other components.
- Leather, suede, nubuck, canvas and other materials may become damaged or misshapen.
- The shoe inserts may become compressed and lose cushioning ability.
- Shoes with electronic components will likely be damaged.
- Items can bang around and scuff each other during the wash cycle.
- Shoes may shrink if water temperature is too hot.
Considerations for Drying Shoes in the Machine
While machine drying shoes may seem like the quickest option after washing them, it also comes with risks:
- The high heat can degrade glues and damage materials.
- Leather, suede and canvas shoes may become stiff and cracked.
- Inserts may compress and shrink.
- Electronics will be damaged.
- Shoes may shrink and become misshapen if dried using high heat.
Air drying shoes after washing is the safest approach. Stuff them with paper towels to help them retain shape as they dry.
Tips for Washing Shoes Safely
If you do opt to machine wash shoes, keep these tips in mind:
- Check the shoe’s care label – follow any warnings or instructions.
- Use the gentle cycle with cold water.
- Use a small amount of mild detergent.
- Place shoes in a garment bag or pillowcase.
- Stuff shoes with towels to retain shape.
- Allow to fully air dry after washing.
- Don’t dry clean leather or suede shoes.
- Spot clean when possible instead of full washing.
Types of Shoes Not Suitable for Washing
The following types of shoes are better off not being machine washed or dried:
- Leather shoes – can become damaged, dried out, misshapen
- Suede or nubuck shoes – fabrics damaged
- Canvas sneakers – can become ripped, glue can degrade
- Running shoes – inserts and support compromised
- Electronics – will short circuit and fail
- High heels – adhesives and materials at risk of damage
- Flip flops – can become warped and shrunken
When Hand Washing is Best
For shoes made of delicate materials or construction, hand washing is safest. Here are some instances its best to avoid the machine and wash by hand:
- Leather dress shoes
- Suede heels
- Canvas slip-ons
- Knit sneakers
- Oxfords
- Sandals with embellishments
- Flip flops and slides
Use a small bowl or bin filled with cool water and a gentle cleaner. Use a soft cloth to spot clean stains first. Allow shoes to air dry fully after hand washing.
Conclusion
While it may seem quick and convenient to toss shoes in the washer and dryer, take time to consider the risks involved for your particular footwear. Leather, suede, canvas and other delicate materials may become damaged from the water, detergent, and mechanical or heat action. Electronics will fail. In many cases, hand washing and air drying is the safest approach. When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s care guidelines for your shoes.