Can You Wash Shoes in Washing Machine

Can All Shoes Go in the Washing Machine?

No — only certain types of shoes are safe for machine washing. Putting the wrong shoes in the washer can warp the shape, melt the glue, damage the materials, or destroy the cushioning. Here's a quick guide to what's safe and what's not.

Shoes That CAN Be Machine Washed

• Canvas sneakers (Converse-style)
• Fabric or mesh athletic sneakers
• Most casual fabric shoes
• Cotton or fabric slip-ons

Shoes That CANNOT Be Machine Washed

• Leather shoes or boots — water damages and cracks leather
• Suede shoes — water ruins the texture permanently
• Dress shoes with structured soles
• Shoes with memory foam insoles — water breaks down the foam
• Shoes with embellishments, sequins, or delicate details
• Rubber boots or rain boots — wipe clean instead

How to Machine Wash Shoes Safely

1. Remove laces and insoles — wash these separately by hand or in a small mesh bag
2. Remove loose dirt — knock soles together and brush off mud before washing
3. Place shoes in a shoe laundry bag — this protects the shoes and the machine drum from impact damage
4. Add 2–3 old towels to balance the load and cushion the shoes
5. Use a gentle cycle with cold water — never hot, which melts glue and warps soles
6. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent — no bleach
7. Air dry only — never put shoes in the dryer; stuff with newspaper to maintain shape and absorb moisture

How to Keep Shoes Fresh Between Washes

After washing and between washes, spray the interior with a shoe deodorizer spray to eliminate odor-causing bacteria and keep shoes smelling fresh.

Quick Tips

• Always use cold water — heat is the enemy of shoes
• Never skip the shoe bag — shoes banging around the drum damage both the shoes and the machine
• Allow 24–48 hours to dry completely before wearing
• When in doubt, hand clean instead

Recommended Products

• Shoe Washing Machine Laundry Bag — protects shoes and drum during machine washing
• Uncle Todd's Shoe Deodorizer Spray — enzyme formula eliminates odor between washes