Wash Shoes Easily with This Comprehensive Guide

Keeping your favorite shoes clean doesn’t have to be a chore. This guide provides a comprehensive list of essentials for washing shoes, from gentle detergents to effective stain removers, ensuring your footwear looks its best. For a wider selection of apparel and accessories that complement any style, explore InktasticMerch.

What You’ll Need To Wash Shoes

Before you begin cleaning your footwear, it’s essential to gather the appropriate supplies. The specific items required can vary based on the shoe’s material and the cleaning method you choose. Here’s a comprehensive list of essentials for washing shoes:

Gentle Laundry Detergent: This is the foundational cleaning agent for both machine and hand washing. Opt for a mild detergent formulated for delicate fabrics to prevent damage. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that can compromise the shoe’s material integrity.
Plastic Tub or Sink: A dedicated plastic tub is ideal, but a clean sink can also serve the purpose for hand washing.
Microfiber Cloth: This soft cloth is perfect for gently scrubbing away surface dirt and stains without abrading the material.
Soft-Bristled Brush: A nylon brush with soft bristles is recommended for dislodging dirt from crevices and textured surfaces without causing wear.
Drying Rack: Utilizing a drying rack promotes better air circulation, significantly speeding up the drying process.
Enzyme-Based Stain Remover: For persistent or deeply set stains, an enzyme-based cleaner is highly effective at breaking down organic matter and lifting discoloration.
Baking Soda: This common household item is an excellent natural deodorizer, capable of neutralizing unpleasant odors within the shoes.
Laundry Disinfectant: To combat odor-causing bacteria and fungi, a laundry disinfectant can be added to the wash cycle or used as a pre-treatment.

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Laundry Stuffer (e.g., Newspapers): Stuffing shoes with newspaper or other absorbent material helps them retain their shape during the drying process and absorbs excess moisture.
Melamine Eraser: Often referred to as a “magic eraser,” this is particularly useful for removing scuff marks and restoring the brightness of white soles and rubber components.
Dishwashing Liquid: A small amount of mild dish soap can be effective for spot-cleaning or as part of a hand-washing solution, especially for greasy marks.

How To Wash Shoes In The Washing Machine

For durable shoes that can withstand machine washing, follow these steps to achieve a thorough clean:

Step 1: Consult Shoe Care Labels

Begin by carefully examining the care label on your shoes. Different materials have distinct washing requirements. For instance, sneakers typically made from polyester, cotton, or nylon are generally durable enough for machine washing with a liquid detergent. However, materials like suede, leather, or certain synthetics should be avoided in a washing machine and are better suited for hand washing or specialized cleaning methods.

Step 2: Remove Laces and Insoles

To ensure a more effective clean and prevent damage, remove the shoelaces and any removable insoles from the shoes. These items can often be cleaned separately.

Step 3: Prepare Shoes for Washing

Before placing the shoes in the washing machine, take a moment to brush off any loose dirt or debris from the exterior, laces, and insoles. You can use your regular detergent and a toothbrush or soft brush for this initial cleaning. To protect the shoes and your washing machine during the cycle, place them inside a mesh laundry bag. A thin pillowcase can also serve as a suitable alternative, preventing them from banging against the drum.

Step 4: Select Wash Cycle and Settings

It is crucial to avoid using hot water, as high temperatures can warp the shoe’s shape, cause colors to fade, and potentially damage adhesives. Opt for a cold water setting and a gentle, slow-spin cycle. If your washing machine has a “no-spin” option, this can be particularly beneficial for minimizing stress on the shoes.

Step 5: Air Dry Thoroughly

Never place your shoes in a clothes dryer. The intense heat can melt glues, warp materials, and cause shrinkage, permanently damaging their structure and fit. After washing, remove the shoes, laces, and insoles from the mesh bag. Lay them on a clean, dry towel. To expedite the drying process, you can place them in a well-ventilated area, near a fan, or outdoors in a breezy spot, ensuring they are out of direct sunlight. Allow up to 24 hours for them to dry completely.

How To Wash Shoes By Hand

For shoes that require a gentler approach or if you prefer not to use a washing machine, hand washing is an effective alternative:

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Create a cleaning mixture by combining a small amount of mild liquid detergent with warm water in a tub or sink. Ensure the detergent is gentle to prevent any potential damage to the shoe’s materials.

Step 2: Fill the Tub or Sink

Fill your chosen basin with enough warm water to comfortably submerge the shoes. Avoid using excessively hot water, as it can be detrimental to certain materials.

Step 3: Soak the Shoes

Submerge the shoes in the prepared water and allow them to soak for approximately one hour. This duration helps to loosen accumulated dirt and stains, making them easier to remove. Note: This soaking method is not suitable for suede shoes, which require minimal water exposure. For suede, use a specialized suede eraser or brush.

Step 4: Gently Scrub Away Dirt

Using a soft-bristle brush, carefully scrub away the loosened dirt and stains from the shoes. It is imperative to avoid using harsh brushes, as they can easily damage the shoe’s fabric or surface.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Once the dirt and stains have been removed, rinse the shoes completely with cold water. This step ensures that all soap residue is eliminated, preventing potential stiffness or discoloration.

Step 6: Air Dry Properly

After rinsing, follow the same air-drying procedure outlined in the machine washing method. Place the shoes on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, and allow them to dry naturally. Stuffing them with newspaper can aid in maintaining their shape and absorbing moisture.

Additional Tips for Washing Your Shoes

To ensure the best results and longevity for your footwear, consider these helpful tips:

Material-Specific Care: Always verify the shoe’s material composition and consult any specific care instructions. Materials such as suede, leather, nubuck, and velvet demand specialized cleaning techniques and products to prevent damage and preserve their appearance.
Remove and Clean Components Separately: For optimal cleaning, always remove removable insoles and shoelaces before washing. Insoles can often be wiped down with a damp cloth or washed separately according to their material. Shoelaces can be hand-washed or placed in a mesh bag with the shoes.

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Utilize Baking Soda for Odor Control: To effectively combat persistent odors, especially in athletic or heavily worn shoes, incorporate baking soda into your cleaning routine. You can add a tablespoon to the wash water or sprinkle it inside the shoes overnight before washing.
Avoid Direct Sunlight During Drying: While ventilation is important, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and potentially degrade certain materials. Opt for indirect light or a shaded, breezy location for drying.
Pre-Treat Stubborn Stains: For challenging stains, pre-treating is essential. Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap or a dedicated stain remover directly to the stained area and let it sit for a short period before washing the shoes.
Hand Wash Delicate Materials: Shoes crafted from delicate fabrics like satin, mesh, or fine knits are best cleaned by hand. This method allows for more control and gentler treatment, minimizing the risk of snagging or tearing.

Determining How Often to Wash Your Shoes

The frequency with which you should wash your shoes is influenced by several factors, including environmental conditions, the materials they are made from, and how often you wear them:

Environmental Conditions: If you live in an area prone to frequent rain, mud, or dust, your shoes will likely require more regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and prevent material degradation.

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Shoe Material: Certain materials, such as canvas and synthetic mesh, are relatively durable and easier to clean, allowing for more frequent washing. Conversely, materials like leather and suede are more sensitive and should be cleaned less often to preserve their natural texture and quality.
Wear Frequency: Shoes that are worn daily will accumulate more dirt and odor than those worn only occasionally. Therefore, daily wear necessitates more frequent cleaning to keep them fresh and presentable.

When faced with a diverse laundry load comprising various materials, from delicate silks to robust running shoes and cotton apparel, it’s natural to question whether everything can be washed together. The answer is definitively no. Different fabrics require distinct washing cycles, temperatures, and detergents to prevent damage and ensure optimal cleaning. Managing multiple wash cycles for each item type can be time-consuming and inconvenient.

Consider outsourcing your laundry needs to a professional cleaning service like Rinse. With extensive experience in handling a wide array of textiles, Rinse professionals possess the expertise to clean each material appropriately. While shoe cleaning is not currently offered, Rinse provides convenient pickup and delivery services for all your wash-and-fold laundry requirements. Combined with specialized services such as dry cleaning, Rinse offers a comprehensive solution for all your garment care needs.

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With these detailed steps and tips, you’re well on your way to keeping your shoes looking their best. For more expert advice and guides on various household topics, be sure to explore the rest of our Blog.