Using A Washing Machine To Clean Sneakers Easy!

If you’re like me and are someone who prides themselves on having clean sneakers, then you definitely understand the intimidation that comes with using the washing machine to clean your sneakers. I remember when I first wanted to try using the washing machine method. I knew how to clean them using a toothbrush, but I wanted a faster way. There was also a fear of “What if I ruin my sneakers in the process of cleaning them?” So I did what any internet-savvy person would do. Use Google and YouTube to find any guidance.

In this section of the site, I will give you a summary of everything I learned from my research as well as my own experience. There will be a list of tools you will need for this method to work. Without wasting any more time, let’s get to business!

Washing Machine Prep Stage

To make the washing machine process easier, it is best to prep your sneakers first. I highly recommend using your hands (with a wet towel of course) and toothbrush during this stage. It is important that we remove as much dirt, grease, and other unwanted material from the shoes before throwing them into the washing machine. Even though the washing machine is capable of removing deep stains, it isn’t 100% all of the time. That is why a “pre-clean” is necessary. Now let’s get our sneakers clean using the washing machine!

List Of Materials Needed 

These are items every household should have. If not, they’re relatively inexpensive to pick up.

2 Shoe Trees – If you don’t want your sneaker toe box to have creases and lose form over time, then these will come in handy.

2 Pillow Cases – This will prevent your shoes from receiving any damage from the washing machine.

Laundry Detergent – This will be the solution for the sneakers to be cleaned with.

4 Towels (optional) – You can use towels to cover the washing machine to prevent your sneakers from banging around.

Now that we have our tools and prepped our sneakers, let’s put those bad boys into the washing machine!

Using the Washing Machine

Step 1: The first thing you want to do with your sneakers is remove the laces. If you want to, you can clean the laces separately by using a bowl of water, and some detergent to soak the laces. If not, put them in a mesh bag by themselves.

Step 2: Remove the insoles. Like the laces, you can clean them separately if you like. I would recommend using a boar bristle brush and scrub the insoles with water and detergent. You can throw them in the washing machine too.

Step 3: Place the shoe trees inside the sneakers. Like I mentioned earlier, the shoe trees will prevent the toe box of the sneakers from creasing and losing form.

Step 4: Place sneakers in pillow case or laundry bag (or laundry bag if you have one) and tie a knot.

Step 5: Throw your sneakers in the washing machine along with the towels. Place the towels in and around the lining of the washing machine.

Step 6: Add a cap full of  laundry detergent for your sneakers.

Step 7: As far as what to set the wash cycle for your sneakers, I recommend using a large load so there is enough water. You definitely want to use cold water while on a delicate cycle. If your washing machine has an extra rinse option, you can decide to use it or not.

Step 8: Press start and let the washing machine do its thing. The time varies from washing machine to washing machine, but you can expect 40 minutes to an hour for the cycle. Once your sneakers are done washing, take them out and let them air dry. Be sure to let the insoles and laces dry before placing them back into the sneakers. Now you have a clean pair of sneakers!

Below is an example of washing shoes using the washing machine by Scotty Restores Kicks: