How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine Safely

Which sneakers can go in the washing machine

Not every sneaker is built for machine washing. Canvas sneakers like Converse Chuck Taylors, knit uppers like Nike Flyknit, mesh running shoes, and most synthetic athletic shoes handle the wash well. If you have a pair of leather or suede sneakers, skip the machine entirely; water and agitation can ruin the finish and warp the material. When you are unsure, check the care label inside the tongue or collar. Most manufacturers specify whether machine washing is safe.

Machine washing works best for sneakers you wear for everyday activities or running. If your sneakers are heavily soiled with mud or stains, pre-treat them first. For help identifying what your uppers are made of, see our guide on shoe upper materials.

• Safe to machine wash: canvas, mesh, knit, nylon, polyester, and other synthetic uppers.
• Do not machine wash: leather, suede, nubuck, patent leather, and sneakers with leather overlays.
• When in doubt, hand wash instead. Read about how to clean sneakers for hand-washing steps.

Prepare your sneakers before the wash

Preparation is the key to a safe machine wash. Remove the laces and insoles. Laces can get tangled and insoles may warp or lose their shape. Set them aside to clean separately. Knock the sneakers together over a trash can to remove loose dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to dislodge caked-on mud from the outsoles and treads.

If there are stubborn stains on the upper, spot-clean them with a small amount of mild detergent and water before the cycle. For white sneakers, a paste of baking soda and water can help lift stains, but test it on a small area first. Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can weaken the fabric and discolor the upper.

• Remove laces and insoles.
• Brush off loose dirt and mud.
• Spot-treat visible stains.
• Close any Velcro straps or hooks to prevent snagging.

Use a laundry bag or pillowcase

Always place your sneakers inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase before putting them in the machine. The bag keeps the sneakers from banging against the drum, protects the machine from scuffs, and prevents the uppers from catching on other items. If you wash more than one pair, put each pair in its own bag or use a large bag that allows them to move freely but does not overcrowd.

A zippered mesh bag works best because it securely contains the sneakers. If you use a pillowcase, tie a loose knot at the open end. This extra layer also reduces noise and helps keep the shape of the sneakers during the spin cycle.

Choose the right washing machine settings

For a safe wash, use cold water. Hot water can shrink or deform synthetic materials and cause colors to bleed. Select the gentle or delicate cycle, which uses less agitation and a slower spin. If your machine has a spin speed setting, choose the lowest option. A high-speed spin can create harsh folds that distort the sneaker shape.

Use a mild liquid detergent. Powdered detergents may not dissolve fully in cold water and can leave residue in the fabric. Add only a small amount, about a tablespoon for one or two pairs. Avoid fabric softener, bleach, and stain removers with strong chemicals. They can break down the glue that holds the sole to the upper.

Air dry with sponge and towels

Never put sneakers in a clothes dryer. The heat and tumbling can shrink, warp, or melt the materials and separate the sole. Instead, air dry them at room temperature in a well-ventilated area. Remove the sneakers from the bag right after the cycle ends. Stuff each sneaker with clean, dry towels or crumpled paper to help them hold their shape and absorb moisture.

Place the sneakers on a towel or a drying rack, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Sunlight can fade colors and cause the upper to stiffen. Let them dry naturally for at least 24 hours. If you need to speed up the process, use a fan set to low and point it at the sneakers. For faster drying tips, see our guide on how to dry sneakers fast.

Drying tips by upper material

Canvas and cotton uppers dry evenly when you stuff them with towels and keep them away from heat. They may shrink if exposed to high temperatures, so always air dry. Mesh and knit uppers are more flexible and dry quicker, but they can lose their shape if left to dry on a hard surface. Stuffing them lightly with paper helps preserve the toe box.

Synthetic leather and coated materials, often found on lifestyle sneakers, should also be air dried. Wipe them with a dry cloth after the wash to remove excess water. Never wring or twist the sneakers, as this can crack the material. After they are fully dry, you can wear them again or store them as described in how to store sneakers.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Is it safe to wash sneakers in a washing machine?

Yes, but only for certain materials. Canvas, mesh, knit, and synthetic uppers can handle a gentle cold-water cycle. Leather, suede, and nubuck should never go in the machine because water can damage them.

What is the best way to protect sneakers in the washing machine?

Use a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase to contain the sneakers. This reduces banging, protects the machine, and keeps the uppers from snagging. Also remove the laces and insoles before washing.

Can I put sneakers in the dryer?

No. The heat and tumbling in a dryer can shrink, warp, or melt the materials and separate the sole. Always air dry sneakers at room temperature with stuffing to keep their shape.

How should I dry leather or suede sneakers after they get wet?

Let them air dry naturally away from heat. Stuff them with paper towels to absorb moisture. Do not use a dryer. Brush suede with a suede brush once dry to restore the nap.