Can You Machine Wash Tennis Shoes?

Can you machine wash tennis shoes? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you should keep in mind before you do.

Introduction

Tennis shoes are a wardrobe staple for many people, but they can be difficult to keep clean. You might be wondering if it is possible to machine wash your tennis shoes. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know before you put them in the washing machine.

Machine washing your tennis shoes is a good way to freshen them up and remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface. However, you should avoid washing your shoes too often, as this can damage the material and shorten their lifespan. When you do wash your tennis shoes, it is important to use a gentle cycle and mild detergent. You should also avoid putting them in the dryer, as this can cause the material to shrink or warp.

If you take care of your tennis shoes, they can last for many years. Machine washing them occasionally is a great way to keep them looking and smelling fresh.

The Risks of Washing Tennis Shoes in the Machine

Many people put their tennis shoes in the washing machine without thinking twice. However, there are some risks associated with doing this. The machine can damage the shoes, and the water can cause them to shrink. If you do decide to wash your tennis shoes in the machine, be sure to use a gentle cycle and air dry them afterwards.

Shrinking

One of the risks of washing tennis shoes in the machine is that they may shrink. This is because the heat from the machine can cause the fibers in the shoes to contract. If your shoes are made of natural fibers like cotton or wool, they are more likely to shrink than those made of synthetic fibers. To avoid this, wash your shoes on a gentle cycle in cold water and air dry them afterward.

Damage to the Machine

Washing your tennis shoes in the machine can do damage to both your shoes and your washing machine. The agitation from the wash cycle can break down the materials in your shoes, causing them to fall apart. It can also loosen the glue that holds your shoes together. If you have a front-loading washing machine, the doors on the shoes can become caught on the door seal and cause damage. The harsh chemicals in laundry detergent can also damage the materials in your shoes and cause them to break down over time.

Washing your tennis shoes in the machine can also damage your washing machine. The laces on your shoes can become wrapped around the agitator or caught in the door seal, causing damage to the moving parts of your machine. The harsh chemicals in laundry detergent can also damage the seals and gaskets in your washing machine, leading to leaks.

How to Wash Tennis Shoes in the Machine

If your tennis shoes are starting to look a little dirty, you may be wondering if you can machine wash them. The answer is yes, you can machine wash tennis shoes. However, there are a few things you need to do first in order to make sure your shoes don’t get damaged in the process. In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to machine wash your tennis shoes.

Use a Mesh Bag

If your shoes are machine-washable, the best way to protect them is to put them in a mesh bag. This will keep them from getting tangled up with other items in the wash and will also help protect them from too much agitation. You can buy mesh bags specifically for washing shoes, or you can use a lingerie bag.

Use a Low Temperature Setting

Before machine washing your tennis shoes, you should always check the care label. If the shoes are safe to machine wash, use a low temperature setting and the delicate cycle. Set the washing machine to cold and add your shoes to the washer alone or with other items made from similar materials. Use a small amount of laundry detergent and avoid using fabric softener or bleach. If your shoes are extremely dirty, you may need to wash them twice.

Drying Tennis Shoes

After you have machine washed your tennis shoes, it is important that you dry them correctly. Drying your shoes incorrectly can cause them to develop mold or mildew. The best way to dry your shoes is to stuff them with newspaper and let them air dry.

Air Dry

The best way to dry your shoes is to air dry them. Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area, such as on a wire rack, and allow them to dry naturally. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the material to break down and discolor. If your shoes are particularly wet, stuff them with newspaper or another type of absorbent material to help speed up the drying process.

Use a Fan

The simplest way to dry your shoes is to set them in front of a fan. The fan will help circulate air around the shoes and speed up the drying process. If possible, place the shoes on top of a towel or rack to allow air to circulate all around them. Bear in mind that this method will take longer than other methods, so be patient. You should check on your shoes every few hours to make sure they are drying evenly.

Conclusion

Concluding, machine washing your tennis shoes is not recommended by most manufacturers. Although it is an option, hand washing is always the best way to clean your shoes and prolong their life. Machine washing can cause damage to the shoes, so it is best to avoid it if possible.