Can I Wash Tennis Shoes In The Washer?

Many people have questions about how to properly care for their shoes. Can I Wash Tennis Shoes In The Washer? is a blog that provides tips and tricks for taking care of all types of shoes.

Introduction

Washing your tennis shoes in the washer is generally not a good idea, as it can damage the shoes and the washer itself. However, if you must wash them in the washer, there are some tips you can follow to minimize the damage.

The Risks of Washing Tennis Shoes in the Washer

Washing your tennis shoes in the washer may save you time, but it can also damage your shoes. The washing machine can cause the soles to separate from the shoes and the fabric to break down. If you must wash your shoes in the washer, be sure to use a gentle cycle and put them in a mesh bag to protect them.

Shrinking

While you may be tempted to wash your shoes in the washer, there are some risks associated with doing so. One of the biggest risks is that your shoes may shrink.

Shrinking occurs when the fabric of your shoes is exposed to excess moisture and heat. When this happens, the fibers of the fabric contract, causing the shoes to become smaller. In some cases, shrinking can be so severe that the shoes no longer fit properly.

Another risk of washing shoes in the washer is that they can become damaged. The agitation from the washing machine can cause seams and soles to come apart, and it can also wear down the fabric of your shoes. If you have a pair of shoes that you really love, it’s best to hand wash them to avoid any potential damage.

Finally, washing your shoes in the washer can also lead to color bleeding. This happens when the dyes in your shoe’s fabric run or transfer onto other items in the load. To avoid this, you should always wash your shoes with similar colors and avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals.

Water Damage

Washing your shoes in the washer can cause water damage, which can lead to a number of problems. The first is that it can cause the shoes to lose their shape. This is because the water can cause the materials in the shoes to expand and contract, which can change their shape. The second is that water damage can cause the shoes to become brittle and break down over time. The third is that it can discolor the shoes and make them look old and worn.

Deforming

Washing your shoes in the washing machine can cause them to deform. The agitation from the washer can cause the shoes to rub against each other and break down the materials. Additionally, Gym shoes often have metal shanks in them to provide support. These can rust and break when they become wet.

How to Wash Tennis Shoes in the Washer

You can wash tennis shoes in the washer, but you need to take a few precautions first. You should always check the care label on your shoes to see if they are machine-washable. You should also put your shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from getting damaged in the washer. Finally, you should use a gentle cycle and cold water when washing your shoes.

Use a Mesh Bag

If your shoes are new, check to see if they have any care instruction labels. Many shoes these days are labeled “machine washable,” in which case you can wash them with your other clothes. If your shoes don’t have a care label, assume they are not machine-washable.

To protect your shoes and your washing machine, put them in a mesh bag designed for laundering delicate items. This will keep them from getting tangled up with other items in the washer and prevent them from banging around and getting scuffed.

If your shoes are particularly dirty or smelly, you may want to pretreat them with a stain remover or OdorKlenz Sport Shoe Deodorizer & Cleaner prior to washing.

Use Cold Water

Tennis shoes can be washed in the washing machine, but you’ll need to take a few precautions to prevent them from being damaged. First, always use cold water and the gentle cycle. High temperatures can damage the adhesives that hold shoes together, as well as the fabric and shape of the shoe. Second, use a very small amount of mild detergent; too much soap can leave a residue on shoes that will attract dirt. You may also want to put your shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from other items in the wash.

Use a Gentle Cycle

Tennis shoes can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle using cold water and a mild detergent. You should wash your shoes separately from other clothing items to avoid damage or color bleeding, and always use a mesh bag designed for delicate items. Tennis shoes can also be washed by hand using a soft brush and a mild detergent; just make sure they are thoroughly rinsed before being left to air dry.

Conclusion

If your shoes are made of sturdy materials like leather or nylon, and they have a rubber sole, then it should be fine to wash them in the washing machine. However, if your shoes are made of delicate materials like suede or mesh, you should hand wash them instead.