Knowing how to wash trainers in a washing machine is an essential skill for anyone in this day and age. We don’t always have the money to splash out and buy a new pair when our trainers start to look a little worn, so sprucing them up in the washing machine can save you countless pounds. This simple step-by-step guide is sure to help you keep your shoes looking fresh as new.
If you'd rather know how to wash trainers by hand, the process will not take as long, but will require a little bit more elbow grease. This method will also help cuts energy costs as it doesn't involve your washing machine at all.
In a large washing up bowl, mix mild laundry detergent with room temperature water to make and use a flannel or cloth to wipe away any stains or marks from the fabric part of your trainers. For the soles, grab a toothbrush, dip it in your soapy mixture and use this to really get into the grooves of the shoes. If you're cleaning white trainers, a slightly different method should be used. You can add baking soda to your mixture to get rid of any deep set stains in white shoes, but only a small amount is needed.
Now, onto how to use a washing machine to clean your trainers.
1. Check the label
Not all trainers are suitable for the washing machine. If your trainers are leather or suede, then we definitely do not recommend throwing them in the washing machine, or even getting them wet at all. Any canvas, nylon, or other solid washable fabrics should be fine, but if you’re in doubt, the easiest way to find out if yours are suitable is to check the tag. This can usually be found on the shoe’s tongue or sole, or failing that, the original box they came in. This label should contain suggestions for how best to wash your pair of shoes.
2. Don’t skip the prewash
Just like when washing clothes, if there’s a lot of heavy stains on your trainers you may need to manually remove some dirt before putting them in the washing machine. First, take them outside and tap them against each other or a wall to remove any excess mud and muck. Once this is done, try using soap and a toothbrush or damp cloth to tackle the remaining heavy stains. Then, let your washing machine take care of the rest.
3. Remove your laces and insoles
We recommend removing the laces of your shoes before using the washing machine, but don’t forget to wash these too. They might get tangled or lost if thrown straight into the washing machine, so try washing them in the sink by hand. If you’d rather not do the dirty work yourself, place the laces along with your shoes into a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent tangles. This will also protect your shoes and minimise the noise of the wash. If you really want to reduce the noise levels, try throwing some towels or jeans that need washing in the cycle to cushion the sound.
It's also important to remove any insoles, as these are not designed to get wet and can either be damaged by the wash, or simply take a long time to dry.
4. Choose your detergent carefully
Some detergents are made specifically for washing shoes, but if you can’t get your hands on any of these, opt for a detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Choose a liquid detergent rather than a powder detergent, these work better in colder washes. If the powder detergent is used in a cold wash, it may not dissolve properly, leaving clumps behind which can stick to your clothes and block your washing machine. If you’ve only got powdered detergent, try dissolving it in warm water first and then adding it to the wash. Remember, you only need a small amount if you’re just washing shoes- try using a third of your usual amount.
However, don’t forget that fabric softeners should not be used when washing your trainers in a washing machine. These can destroy the material keeping the shoes together and do more damage than they’re worth.
5. Know your temperature
Like delicate fabrics, shoes need to be washed on a gentle cycle with cold water. Washing them at too high a temperature, although it may remove the stains, can damage the shoes. Keeping the temperature at around 30 degrees will help prevent the colours of your shoes running (no pun intended).
6. Reshape them
Once the cycle is done, take them out of your machine. Do not tumble dry your shoes, not only will you be sick of the noise at this point, but the heat could permanently damage your shoes. Similarly, avoid sticking them by the radiator. We recommend placing them outside, either stood upright or hung on the line. Try stuffing the shoes with newspaper so the shoes dry in their proper shape. Or, if you have any silica gel bags lying around (the little bags that say ‘do not eat’), these are great for absorbing moisture and will help dry your shoes quicker.
Hopefully, some of these tips have helped you revive an old pair of well-loved shoes, and maybe saved a few pounds in the process.
FAQs
Should I put my trainers in a pillow case when washing them?
As stated above, placing your shoes in a pillow case or mesh laundry bag while you was them can be a really helpful tip. It helps to keep your laces with your shoes and to minimise the noise of the wash. However, these tips will all work just as well with no pillowcase, so it’s not essential.
What temperature do I wash my trainers in a washing machine?
We recommend you wash your trainers at a really cool temperature, no warmer than a 30 degrees Celsius wash. Any hotter could permanently weaken your shoes and melt the glues holding them together.
How long do trainers take to dry?
Depending on the conditions, it can take anywhere from 12 to 48 hours for a pair of shoes to fully dry after washing them in a washing machine. We recommend just leaving them outside if it's a dry day, or inside somewhere warm. Like we stated above, do not put your trainers in the dryer after you wash them as it will likely damage them.
Sarah O’Byrne has been an editorial assistant at heat, Closer and Yours since May 2023. She has a BA in English with Film and an MA in Literature and Culture - both from University College Dublin.
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