Ever wondered if you can safely clean dirty trainers in the washing machine without ruining them? The answer is yes, in many cases, but only if you know the right steps before you start. Washing trainers correctly can help remove odor, dirt, and stains while protecting the shape, cushioning, and glue that hold the shoes together. If you are searching for how to wash trainers in the washing machine, this guide will walk you through the most important things to know first.
Can You Put Trainers in the Washing Machine?
Most fabric trainers, canvas sneakers, and some synthetic athletic shoes can be washed in a machine. However, not every pair is machine washable. Leather, suede, embellished shoes, and trainers with delicate foam or special coatings may get damaged in a washer. Before you wash trainers in the washing machine, check the care label inside the shoe and follow the manufacturer’s instructions if available.
What to Check Before Washing Trainers
Remove Loose Dirt First
Always brush off mud, sand, and debris before loading your shoes into the washer. A soft brush or dry cloth works well. This helps prevent grit from spreading during the cycle and reduces wear on the fabric.
Inspect the Materials
If your trainers are made from canvas, polyester, nylon, or mesh, they are usually safer to machine wash. If they include suede, nubuck, leather accents, or glued decorative parts, hand cleaning is the better option.
Check for Damage
Look for loose stitching, torn seams, or separated soles. A washing machine can make minor damage worse. If the shoes are already falling apart, repair them first or clean them by hand.
How to Wash Trainers in the Washing Machine Safely
Use a Laundry Bag or Pillowcase
Place your trainers in a mesh laundry bag or an old pillowcase to help protect both the shoes and the drum. This also reduces banging noise during the cycle.
Remove Laces and Insoles
Take out the laces and insoles before washing. Laces can be washed separately, and insoles usually need air cleaning because machine washing may break down the cushioning.
Choose the Right Detergent
Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh stain removers unless the label says they are safe for the material. Too much detergent can leave residue in the fabric and cause odor later.
Pick a Gentle Cycle
Use cold water and a gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water can weaken glue and warp shoe materials. If your washer has a low-spin setting, that is ideal for minimizing impact.
Best Practices to Protect Your Washer
Add Towels for Balance
Wash trainers with a few old towels to reduce noise and balance the load. This also helps prevent the shoes from slamming against the drum.
Never Use the Dryer
Do not put trainers in the dryer. High heat can shrink fabric, damage foam, and loosen adhesive. Instead, air dry them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heaters.
How to Dry Trainers After Washing
Stuff the trainers with paper towels or clean dry cloths to help absorb moisture and maintain shape. Replace the stuffing if needed until they are fully dry. Drying time can take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the material and room conditions.
Final Tips for Cleaner Trainers
If you want the best results when learning how to wash trainers in the washing machine, always read the care label, use cold water, and choose a gentle cycle. Machine washing is a convenient way to refresh many types of trainers, but careful prep makes all the difference. When in doubt, hand wash your shoes to avoid costly damage.
