How to Wash Sneakers in the Washing Machine and Which Shoes to Skip

Many fabric sneakers, such as canvas, cotton and synthetic mesh pairs, can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water, mild detergent and no heat drying. Leather, suede, glued or damaged shoes and anything with a built-in battery or electronics should not go in the machine. Always check the care label or the maker’s instructions first, because they override any general advice. If sneakers still smell after washing, see how to get rid of shoe odor for leather shoes, boots and insoles.

Check whether your sneakers can be machine washed

Before you start, look at the shoe and its tag or manufacturer instructions. Machine washing is usually fine for:

• Canvas sneakers with sturdy stitching.
• Knit and mesh running shoes without detailed glued parts.
• Basic cotton or polyester athletic shoes in good condition.

Skip the washer, or hand wash instead, if the shoe has:

• Peeling soles, loose glue or visible gaps between sole and upper.
• Leather, suede, nubuck, patent leather or other delicate materials.
• Foam or cushioning that is known to be sensitive to water or heat.
• A label that says do not wash, or hand wash only.

A washer can loosen adhesives and distort the shape of shoes that are already worn, so a pair in poor shape is better cleaned by hand.

What you need

• A small amount of mild liquid laundry detergent.
• A soft brush or old toothbrush.
• A mesh laundry bag or a zippered pillowcase.
• Several old towels, which balance the load and cushion the drum.
• Clean white paper towels or plain white cloths for stuffing and drying.

Use a normal amount of ordinary detergent. Avoid bleach on colored shoes, since it can cause patches or yellowing, and never combine bleach with other cleaners or products.

Step-by-step: machine washing sneakers

1. Remove laces and insoles. Take out the laces and, if they lift out easily, the insoles. Wash laces in a small mesh bag or by hand.
2. Knock off loose dirt. Bang the soles together outdoors and brush off dried mud and grit so it does not clog the drain.
3. Pre-treat stains. Work a little diluted detergent into marks with a soft brush and leave it for a few minutes.
4. Bag the shoes. Place the pair in a mesh bag or zipped pillowcase to reduce banging and protect the drum and door glass.
5. Add towels. Put in a few old towels so the load stays balanced and the shoes do not thump around.
6. Choose a gentle cycle. Pick a delicate or gentle setting with cold or cool water, and a low spin speed if you can choose one.
7. Add mild detergent. Use a small amount of liquid detergent, and skip fabric softener, which can leave residue and affect some materials.
8. Remove promptly. Take the shoes out as soon as the cycle ends and reshape them by hand.

How to dry sneakers safely

Drying matters as much as washing, because heat is what damages most shoes.

• Do not use the dryer. High heat can melt glue, shrink fabric and warp soles.
• Stuff the shoes. Fill them loosely with white paper towels or plain white cloths to absorb moisture and hold the shape. Replace the stuffing when it gets damp.
• Air dry in a ventilated spot. Leave them at room temperature, away from radiators, heaters and direct sun, which can fade colors and stiffen materials.
• Allow enough time. Most pairs take a day or more to dry fully. Do not wear them while damp.

Make sure the shoes are completely dry inside before you put them away or wear them, since trapped moisture can cause odors and mildew.

Shoes you should never machine wash

• Leather, suede and nubuck. Water and agitation can cause stiffness, stains and cracking. Use a damp cloth and products made for the material.
• Shoes with electronics or batteries, such as light-up sneakers, unless the maker clearly says they are washable.
• Dress shoes, boots with leather or rubber linings, and anything with a cork or wooden sole.
• Heavily worn or glued pairs. The sole may separate during the cycle.
• Orthopedic shoes and medical footwear, unless the label says it is safe. Check with the supplier.
• Specialty athletic shoes, such as spiked running shoes, cleats and climbing shoes, which often have specific care instructions.

Hand-washing option

If a machine is not an option, hand washing is gentler for most shoes.

1. Mix a little mild detergent into a bowl of cool water.
2. Dip a soft brush into the mixture and scrub the upper and sole in small circles.
3. Wipe away suds with a clean damp cloth. Do not soak the shoes.
4. Stuff with white paper and air dry as described above.

Quick answers

Can I wash sneakers with other laundry?

It is best to wash them with towels only. Heavy shoes can bang against delicate clothes, and dye or dirt from the shoes can transfer.

How often should I wash my sneakers?

Wash them when they look dirty or smell. For most people, that is every few months, and less often if you spot-clean marks in between.

How do I get rid of odors?

Wash according to the steps above, remove the insoles to dry separately, and let the shoes dry fully. Letting shoes air out between wears also helps.

Can I put shoes in the dryer on low?

It is safer not to. Even low heat can weaken adhesives and change the fit, so air drying is the better choice.