How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine: The Safe Way to Clean Sneakers

Dirty sneakers don't need to stay that way. You can wash shoes in a washing machine safely — as long as you use the right settings and take a few precautions. Canvas sneakers, mesh running shoes, and most athletic shoes handle machine washing just fine when done correctly.

This guide covers exactly how to wash shoes in a washing machine without damaging them, which shoes are safe to machine wash, and the best way to dry them afterward.

Which Shoes Can You Machine Wash?

How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine: Step-by-Step

1. Remove laces and insoles. Take out the laces and removable insoles. Wash laces in a mesh laundry bag alongside the shoes. Hand wash insoles separately with soap and water.
2. Knock off loose dirt. Bang the soles together outside or use an old toothbrush to remove caked mud, gravel, and debris. This protects the machine and improves cleaning.
3. Pre-treat stains. Apply a small amount of laundry detergent or stain remover directly to visible stains. Let sit 10 minutes. See our stain removal guide for tough stains.
4. Place shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase. This prevents the shoes from banging around the drum, which can damage both the shoes and the machine. Tie the pillowcase closed.
5. Add towels for balance. Toss in 4-6 old towels with the shoes. This balances the load, reduces noise, and provides extra scrubbing action.
6. Add detergent. Use a standard amount of liquid detergent. Avoid powder detergent — it can clump inside shoes and not fully dissolve.
7. Select settings: Cold water, gentle/delicate cycle. Cold water prevents glue from softening and colors from bleeding. The gentle cycle reduces impact on shoe structure.
8. Run the cycle. A standard gentle cycle (about 30 minutes) is sufficient.

How to Dry Shoes After Washing

Never put shoes in the dryer. The heat warps soles, melts glue, and can shrink the upper material.

Instead, air dry your shoes:

1. Remove shoes from the mesh bag immediately after the wash cycle ends.
2. Stuff each shoe with crumpled newspaper or clean paper towels to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Replace the paper every few hours.
3. Place shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
4. Drying time: 12-24 hours depending on shoe material and thickness.

Speed tip: Place shoes near a fan or in front of an air vent to cut drying time in half.

Can You Wash Shoes at a Laundromat?

Yes, and laundromat machines are often better suited for shoes because:

• Front-load machines are gentler: Most laundromat front-loaders have a true gentle cycle, reducing impact on shoes.
• You keep your home machine clean: Dirty shoes can leave grit and odor in your home washer.
• Large machines work for multiple pairs: Wash 2-3 pairs at once in a medium machine.

Cost: Washing shoes at a self-service laundromat costs about $3-$5 for the wash cycle. Find a laundromat near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put Nike shoes in the washing machine?
Most Nike sneakers made from canvas, mesh, or synthetic materials are safe to machine wash on cold/gentle. Remove insoles and laces first. Avoid machine washing Nike Air Max or shoes with visible air units — the heat and agitation can damage the air bladder.

How often should you wash sneakers?
Wash sneakers every 2-4 weeks if worn regularly, or whenever they look or smell dirty. Spot-clean between washes to extend time between full washes.

Will washing shoes damage the washing machine?
Not if you use a mesh bag and add towels for cushioning. The towels prevent shoes from slamming against the drum. Always remove loose dirt before loading.