If your shoes are very dirty or smelly, you may be able to freshen them up by washing them in the washing machine. Canvas and synthetic leather shoes can be easily washed in a washing machine on a gentle wash cycle, then air-dried. Do not wash genuine leather shoes, formal shoes (eg heels), or boots in the washing machine. Instead, just wash it by hand.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Cleaning Shoes Before Washing
Step 1. Clean the surface of the shoe from dirt with a damp cloth
If your shoes are very dirty from dirt, grass, or mud, clean them with a rag. You don't need to brush it. Just wipe the dirtiest part to clean it.
You can also tap your shoes over the trash can to remove more dirt
Step 2. Clean the sole with a toothbrush and warm soapy water
Start by taking a small bowl filled with water. Add a spoonful of dish soap. Dip a toothbrush in this solution. Then, scrub the sole of the shoe with a toothbrush.
Make sure to brush it firmly. The harder you brush, the more dirt will come off
Step 3. Rinse the shoes
You have to clean the soap residue from the shoes. To do this, hold the shoe over the tub or sink and rinse the sole with water.
Step 4. Remove the insole and remove the laces, if necessary
If your shoes have laces, you will need to put them in the washing machine separately. The laces and around the eyelets can get very dirty. So removing the laces will help the washing machine to clean them.
Part 2 of 2: Washing and Drying It
Step 1. Put the shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase
A pocket like this will help protect the shoe. Make sure the bag is tightly closed before putting it in the washing machine.
If you're using a pillowcase, tuck the shoe into the pillowcase, tie the top tightly, and use an elastic band to secure it
Step 2. Put the extra upholstery in the washing machine as a shoe base
Wash shoes with at least two large, thick towels. Remember, you are washing dirty shoes. So, don't choose a soft or white towel.
Step 3. Wash the shoe, the inner pad of the shoe, and the laces using the gentle wash cycle
Place the shoes, shoe inner pads, and shoelaces in the washing machine along with the towels of your choice. Use cold or warm water with little or no swirl. Use the additional rinse cycle option to help remove soap residue at the end of the wash cycle.
- Using hot water in the washing machine can cause the shoe glue to weaken, crack, or melt.
- Do not use fabric softener on shoes as it can leave a residue that can attract more dirt.
Step 4. Air the shoes
Remove shoes, laces, and inner padding from the washing machine. Place your shoes out in the open to dry them for 24 hours before using them.
- To speed up the drying process and keep your shoes in shape, make balls out of old newspaper and put them in your shoes.
- Do not put shoes in the dryer as this may damage them.
