Ever wondered if tossing your gym shoes into the washer is a safe shortcut or a fast way to ruin them? The good news is that many athletic shoes can be machine washed when you follow the right steps. If you want to know how to wash gym shoes in washing machine without damaging the fabric, glue, or cushioning, this guide will walk you through the safest method.
Can You Wash Gym Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Yes, many gym shoes can be washed in a washing machine, especially sneakers made from canvas, nylon, polyester, or mesh. However, not every pair is machine washable. Shoes with leather, suede, heavy embellishments, or delicate foam components should usually be cleaned by hand.
Before you start, always check the care label inside the shoe or the manufacturer’s website. If the shoes are already falling apart or have glued soles that are coming loose, machine washing may make the damage worse.
What You Need Before Washing
To clean gym shoes in the washing machine safely, gather a few basic items first:
- Mild liquid detergent
- A soft brush or old toothbrush
- Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
- Old towels
- Baking soda, optional for odor control
Using the right supplies helps protect both your shoes and your washer.
How to Wash Gym Shoes in Washing Machine
1. Remove Loose Dirt First
Knock the shoes together outside to remove mud and debris. Then use a dry brush to clean off dust from the soles and uppers. This step keeps dirt from spreading inside the washer.
2. Take Out the Laces and Insoles
Remove the laces and insoles before washing. Laces can be washed in a small mesh bag, while insoles are usually better cleaned by hand. Washing them separately helps them dry faster and prevents distortion.
3. Place Shoes in a Mesh Bag or Pillowcase
Put each shoe in a mesh laundry bag or a zippered pillowcase. This reduces friction and helps protect the drum from hard impacts. If you do not have a bag, wrap the shoes in towels for extra cushioning.
4. Add Towels to Balance the Load
Wash gym shoes with a few old towels. This helps balance the load, reduces noise, and minimizes banging inside the machine. Avoid washing shoes with delicate clothes.
5. Use Cold Water and a Gentle Cycle
Set the washer to cold water and the gentle cycle. Hot water can weaken glue and warp materials. A slow spin cycle is best for preserving the shape of your shoes.
6. Choose a Mild Detergent
Use a small amount of liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh cleaners because they can fade colors and damage fabric. If your shoes smell bad, add a little baking soda to help neutralize odors.
How to Dry Gym Shoes After Washing
Air Dry Only
Never put gym shoes in the dryer unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe. High heat can shrink materials, loosen adhesive, and damage cushioning.
Instead, air dry your shoes in a well-ventilated area. Stuff them with paper towels or dry cloths to help them keep their shape and absorb moisture. Replace the stuffing as it gets wet.
Keep Them Away from Direct Heat
Do not place shoes on a radiator, in direct sunlight for long periods, or near a heater. Excess heat can crack the material and shorten the life of your shoes.
Extra Tips for Better Results
- Wash gym shoes only when needed, not after every workout
- Clean very muddy shoes by hand first
- Use a shoe deodorizer if odors remain
- Check the soles and seams before and after washing
When You Should Not Machine Wash Gym Shoes
Avoid machine washing if your shoes are made of leather, suede, nubuck, or other delicate materials. Also skip the washer if the manufacturer warns against it. For expensive athletic shoes, hand cleaning is often the safer choice.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to wash gym shoes in washing machine the safe way is simple once you know the basics. Remove dirt first, protect the shoes in a mesh bag, use cold water and a gentle cycle, then air dry them properly. With the right care, your gym shoes can come out cleaner, fresher, and ready for your next workout.
