How to Clean Skechers Memory Foam Insoles

First, check if your insoles are removable

Not every Skechers sneaker has a removable insole. Some models have the memory foam footbed glued or stitched into the midsole, and forcing it out can damage the shoe. Before you clean anything, pull up the insole at the heel. If it lifts easily, it is removable. If it resists, check the manufacturer's care instructions for that specific model.

If the insole is removable, treatment is straightforward. If it is not, you are limited to surface cleaning while the insole stays in the shoe, which is less effective. For help determining whether your sneakers use a sock liner or a true insole, see our guide on Removable Insoles.

Hand washing: the gentler method

For most Skechers memory foam insoles, hand washing is the safest approach because it gives you control over pressure and water temperature. Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water can break down the foam's cell structure and cause it to lose shape.

Add a small amount of mild detergent. A gentle dish soap or a detergent made for delicates works well. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, or any product with strong chemical solvents. Harsh cleaners can leave residues that sit against your skin for hours, and they may also degrade the foam.

Dip a soft brush or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the surface of the insole. Work in small circles, focusing on the heel and ball-of-foot areas where odor and residue accumulate. Do not submerge the insole for long periods; memory foam can absorb water and become heavy, which makes it harder to dry fully. Rinse with clean lukewarm water and press out excess moisture with a towel. Do not wring or twist.

Machine washing: when it is safe

Many Skechers memory foam insoles can survive a washing machine cycle, but you need to protect them. Place the insoles inside a mesh laundry bag. This keeps them from being tossed around and prevents the foam from getting torn or bent. Use a front-loading or top-loading machine without a center agitator if possible; the agitator can beat the insoles and cause permanent creasing.

Set the machine to cold water and the gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water can shrink the foam or distort its shape, which would change the fit of the insole. Do not use bleach. If you are unsure whether your specific Skechers model is machine washable, check the tag inside the shoe. Some Skechers lines like Best Skechers Sneakers in 2026 include insoles that the brand recommends cleaning by hand only.

Do not add fabric softener. The residue can clog the open-cell structure of memory foam and reduce its breathability. For a closer look at how cleaning methods differ between mesh and knit insoles, see How to Clean Mesh and Knit Sneaker Insoles.

Deodorizing and stain treatment

If your insoles have developed an odor, focus on deodorizing before or during the wash. A simple baking soda paste, made with water, can be applied to the surface and left for 15 minutes before rinsing. Do not use vinegar on memory foam unless you have tested it on a hidden area first; vinegar can break down certain foam types over time.

For stains, spot treat with a diluted detergent and a soft brush before the full wash. Avoid rubbing too hard; the foam can tear or develop a permanent compression mark. If the stain does not come out after one attempt, repeat the process rather than scrubbing more aggressively. Odor control also depends on how you dry and store the insoles. For more on removing smells, see How to Deodorize Sneakers.

Drying: the step most people get wrong

Memory foam insoles must dry slowly and flat. Never put them in a tumble dryer. The heat and tumbling will break down the foam and can cause it to bunch up or crack. Instead, lay the insoles on a dry towel, shape them gently with your hands, and leave them at room temperature in a well-ventilated area.

Avoid direct sunlight and radiators. UV light and high heat can degrade the foam and make it stiff or crumbly. Drying can take 12 to 24 hours depending on humidity and how much water the foam absorbed. If you need them faster, you can place them near a fan, but never on a heat source. If the fabric on the surface remains damp after a day, you may have left them submerged too long. Press them with a dry towel again and let them continue drying. For more on quick drying without heat, see How to Dry Sneaker Insoles Quickly.

When cleaning is not enough: replace instead

Cleaning does not restore compressed foam. If your Skechers memory foam insoles feel flat, hard, or lumpy even after a thorough wash, it is time to replace them. Worn shoes with inadequate cushioning can contribute to foot and knee pain, and a compressed insole no longer provides the arch support and shock absorption it did when new.

As a general rule, insoles that are worn daily should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on your weight, activity level, and how many pairs you rotate. If you walk or stand a lot, they may wear out sooner. Our guide on When to Replace Your Sneakers and Insole Compression Test can help you judge.

If you want to keep your Skechers but the insoles are beyond saving, consider replacing them with an aftermarket insole that offers similar cushioning.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I put Skechers memory foam insoles in the washing machine?

Yes, if the insole is removable and the care label allows it. Place them in a mesh laundry bag and run a cold, gentle cycle. Do not use hot water, bleach, or fabric softener. After washing, air dry flat; never put them in a dryer.

Can I dry Skechers memory foam insoles in the dryer?

No. The heat and tumbling will break down the memory foam structure, causing stiffness, cracking, or loss of shape. Always air dry them flat at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or radiators.

How often should I clean Skechers memory foam insoles?

For daily wear, every 2 to 4 weeks is a good rhythm. In hot weather or with heavy activity, you may need to clean them more often. If they start to smell or look visibly dirty, clean them promptly to prevent odor buildup.

What should I do if my Skechers memory foam insoles lose their shape after washing?

If the foam does not bounce back after a full drying cycle, it may be over-compressed or damaged by heat. Try reshaping them gently with your hands while they dry. If they remain flat or lumpy, replace them with new insoles.

Is it safe to use bleach to clean Skechers memory foam insoles?

No. Bleach can break down the foam and leave a toxic residue that sits next to your skin for hours. Use a mild detergent or a paste made with baking soda and water for stains and odor.