If you are getting ready for a special occasion and need to look your very best, most of that time your shoes are one of the hardest things to keep looking new. Because our shoes take the most damage from everyday lifestyle and walking, they are the first piece of clothing to break apart. Even though many of today’s shoes are built with better quality and can be worn for much longer. They will still need to be properly maintained and not used for running, hiking, climbing or sport related activity, which will make them wear out faster. So to save money from having to buy new shoes and to save time from spending hours cleaning and deodorizing your shoes, you may at one point have thought about putting your shoes in the washing machine 🤔.
Will Putting Shoes Into Washing Machine Damage The Appliance?
Some shoes, like certain types of soccer shoes, hiking shoes or the ones with the metal spikes should not be put in the washing machine 🙄. All other shoes in most cases should be safe and will not damage the washer. However, if for any reason you notice a problem after putting your shoes in the washing machine contact our expert Washer Repair Service.
How to Wash Shoes in Washing Machine
Before getting ready to wash your shoes check the label, it may or may not have a note telling you if your shoes are washer or dryer safe. Most shoes are made from a polyester or nylon mesh. These materials are normally durable enough so that they can be safely put into the washer. If your shoes are expensive or made from suede, leather or silk, they should not be put in the washer. For a proper shoe cleaning in the washer follow these steps:
1. Remove the Shoelaces.
The laces can be hand washed or placed in the washer. However, if you have a mesh bag you should put them inside there along with the shoes so they don’t get tangled or wrap around moving parts which can damage the washer. For that reason, it is recommended to remove the shoelaces and hand wash them separately, and for them not to be put into the washer. For extra dirty laces you can use a small brush with detergent and warm water.
2. Remove the Insoles (If They Are Removable).
It is recommended to wash the insoles separately since washing them in the washer can leave them deformed and absorb too much water making them take much longer to dry. To wash the insoles, use a brush with warm water and soap. Next put a small amount of baking soda on top and rub it into the insoles, let them dry over night, then brush off the extra baking soda. This will ensure that your insoles are clean and deodorized.
3. Place the Shoes in the Washer.
If you have a mesh bag, you can use it to put the shoes inside of. This will prevent the shoes from banging around the washer making a lot of noise. To help remove some of the noise, add a few towels or clothes. Use towels or clothes that have already been in the washer a few times before; that will prevent any extra color or dye which may come off and attach to the shoes.
4. Set your Washer to a Delicate Cycle, with Cold Water and a Slow or No Spin Setting.
Warm water can also be used if your shoes have already been in a cold water cycle before and haven distorted. Use warm water if you are comfortable, although your shoes will have a higher chance of warping so use it at your own risk.
5. Use a Liquid Detergent.
Powder detergent can get trapped in some of the shoe’s compartments or crevasses. That’s why using liquid detergent is recommended. The best detergent for washing your shoes in the washing machine is Gain Cold Water.
6. Let the Shoes Air Dry.
Don’t put your shoes into the dryer! Stuff your shoes with clean rags, towels or shirts. Paper towels can also be used but using clothes are better for the environment 😇🌳. Stuffing your shoes will help them to dry faster since the clothes will absorb most of the extra moisture. And also this will help them keep their shape so they will not get deformed. Placing them outside under sunlight can speed up the drying process.
7. That’s It 🍕
Once the shoes are dry, remove the cloth stuffing, reattach the insoles and laces, and enjoy your clean deodorized shoes!
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