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How to wash shoes in the washing machine? It is the first question you should ask when you have dirty sneakers that you want to clean.
Shoes are one of those things that we don’t really think about cleaning. We just throw them into a washing machine and they come out clean, dry and ready for wear. But what if you want your shoes to be even cleaner?
What if you want to wash your shoes so that they look like new again?
Well, there is no need to worry because it is actually quite easy to do this. In this article, you’re going learn how to clean dirty sneakers in the washing machine.
Also Read: How To Clean Your Birkenstocks
Table of Contents
How to wash shoes in your washer – a step-by-step guide
If you’re anything like me, the last thing you want to do after getting home from work is take out the dirty laundry and start folding it. I know that sounds crazy but
I have a hard time doing laundry on weekdays because I don’t feel like taking the time to fold all of my clothes. So when I get home, I just throw them into the washing machine.
However, I recently found out that I can also use my washing machine to wash my shoes as well!
Here are the step by step process on how to wash shoes with your washing machine:
Step 1: Put your shoes inside the washing machine
The first thing you will need to do is put your shoes into the washing machine. You can either place them directly onto the top rack or you can hang them up using the hanger provided by the manufacturer.
Step 2: Add detergent
Now that your shoes are inside the washing machine, you will need to add some liquid detergent. Detergents can easily remove dirt and stains from fabrics and clothing.
The type of detergent you choose depends on whether you are looking to clean your socks, shirts, pants, or even tennis shoes, etc.
For example, if you are looking to clean only your socks, then you would probably want to buy an all purpose sock detergent. This type of detergent works best for removing stains from any fabric.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a shoe detergent, then you should go for something specifically designed for shoes.
In order to find the right kind of detergent for your needs, you should always read the instructions carefully. Some detergents may contain chemicals which could damage your sneakers. Therefore, make sure that you read the instructions before adding the detergent.
Step 3: Start the cycle
Once you have added the detergent, you will now need to turn on the washing machine. Make sure that you set the correct temperature and select the appropriate wash cycle. For example, if you are washing your socks, then you should select the ‘sock’ option.
Step 4: Check the results
After turning on the washing machine, wait until it has finished its delicate cycle. Once it has done so, you will see the results. Your sneakers should be completely clean and free of any stains.
However, if your shoes still appear stained, then you might want to repeat the process. In most cases, you will only need to repeat the whole process once.
Step 5: Dry your shoes
After completing the entire process, you will need to leave your shoes to dry. Depending on the type of your shoes, you may need to leave them overnight. Alternatively, you can use the drying function on your washing machine to speed up the process.
Step 6: Repeat the process
Repeat the same process for every pair of shoes you own. Doing so will ensure that you keep your sneakers clean and new throughout the year.
Also Read: How to Clean a Washing Machine Drain Pipe
Will shoes break the washing machine?
Shoes are likely to cause damage to the washing machine if they aren’t cleaned properly. A washing machine manual advises that you wash them separately in a pillow case or a mesh garment bag.
“This helps to prevent them from being violently shaken around inside the drum,” explains the manufacturer. If you don’t do this, the shoes could potentially damage the drum and cause it to fail.
Does your shoe size change when you wash them?
Shoes may shrink in the washing machines if they are washed on the hottest setting. This could happen because some detergents contain bleach, which causes damage to leather. If you wash your shoes on a warm cycle, make sure to check the label to see what type of detergent you use.
When washing your shoes, always remember to follow the care instructions. You should never put your shoes in the freezer or microwave.
These methods can damage the material. Instead, try putting your shoes in a sink filled with cool water and gently rubbing them with a soft damp cloth.
After washing, air dry your footwear overnight. Do not expose your shoes to high heat while drying. Doing so can cause them to shrink. Also, do not store your shoes near a radiator or heater. Heat can warp the uppers and soles of your shoes.
Also Read: Does Cotton Shrink? How to Prevent Cotton from Shrinking
Can I put shoes in the washer with clothing?
You might think it’s safe to wash your favorite pair of sneakers in the laundry, but you’d be wrong. Washing shoes inside the machine could cause permanent damage to the leather uppers. If you want to clean your shoes without ruining them, here are some tips to keep in mind.
First, make sure you don’t place too many pairs into the machine. You’ll want to limit yourself to about three pairs per load. This way, you won’t risk damaging the soles of one shoe while trying to save another.
Next, try adding a few old towels or clothing items to the drum to help even out the load. This will ensure that no single item gets overworked when the cycle starts.
Finally, avoid using fabric softener sheets because they can clog up the pump and ruin your next load. Instead, opt for dryer balls to soften your clothes and detergents like Woolite.
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