Tennis shoes, also known as sneakers or athletic shoes, are a vital part of an active lifestyle. Whether you’re a tennis player, a runner, or simply someone who enjoys comfort and style, your tennis shoes likely see a lot of action. Over time, they can accumulate dirt, sweat, and odors, making it essential to know how to clean them effectively. While some people prefer the traditional hand-cleaning method, using a washing machine can be a convenient and efficient way to restore your tennis shoes to their former glory.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and effectively wash tennis shoes in a washing machine. By following these tips and precautions, you can extend the life of your favorite kicks and keep them looking and smelling fresh.
Before You Begin
Before tossing your tennis shoes into the washing machine, it’s crucial to gather the necessary supplies and take some precautions to avoid any potential damage. Here’s what you’ll need:
Materials:
- Tennis shoes that need cleaning
- A pillowcase or shoe bag
- Mild laundry detergent
- A soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
- A gentle stain remover (if necessary)
- Laces (if removable) for separate cleaning
- A washing machine
Precautions:
Check the manufacturer’s care instructions: Always refer to the label or manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning your specific tennis shoes. Some shoes may not be suitable for machine washing.
Remove any loose dirt and debris: Before washing, tap your shoes together or use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris. This will prevent them from damaging the washing machine.
Remove laces and insoles:
Take out the laces and insoles (if they are removable) to wash separately. This ensures a more thorough cleaning and prevents tangling.
Pre-treat stains: If your shoes have stubborn stains, pre-treat them with a gentle stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before washing.
Secure shoes in a pillowcase or shoe bag: To protect both your tennis shoes and your washing machine, place them in a pillowcase or a specialized shoe bag. This prevents the shoes from banging against the washer’s drum, which could cause damage.
Now that you’ve gathered your supplies and taken necessary precautions, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of washing tennis shoes in a washing machine.
Step 1: Prepare Your Washing Machine
Start by setting up your washing machine for the shoe cleaning process. Here’s what you should do:
Empty the washing machine: Make sure the washing machine is empty of any other laundry items. You don’t want to mix your tennis shoes with your regular clothes.
Adjust settings: Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the glue in your shoes to weaken and potentially damage them.
Use a mild detergent: Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent to the detergent compartment. Be cautious not to overuse detergent, as excess soap residue can be difficult to rinse out.
Step 2: Secure Your Shoes
To prevent your tennis shoes from bouncing around and causing damage during the washing cycle, secure them inside a pillowcase or shoe bag. Here’s how to do it:
Place your shoes in a pillowcase or shoe bag: Gently insert your shoes into a pillowcase or a specialized shoe bag. Make sure the shoes are positioned toe to heel and not overcrowded.
Tie the pillowcase or bag: Secure the pillowcase or bag tightly with a knot or a rubber band. This will keep the shoes in place and prevent them from coming loose during the wash.
Balance the load: If you’re washing multiple pairs of shoes, add a few towels or other soft items to balance the load in the washing machine. This helps reduce the noise and potential damage caused by uneven weight distribution.
Step 3: Start the Washing Cycle
Now that your shoes are properly secured and your washing machine is prepared, it’s time to start the cleaning process:
Place the shoe-containing pillowcase or bag in the washing machine: Ensure that the pillowcase or bag is positioned evenly in the drum.
Start the wash cycle: Begin the machine’s gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage both the shoes and the washing machine.
Monitor the wash: Stay nearby to ensure that the washing machine operates smoothly and doesn’t become unbalanced. If you notice any issues, pause the cycle and redistribute the load.
Use an extra rinse cycle: If your washing machine offers an extra rinse option, consider using it to ensure that all detergent residue is thoroughly removed from your tennis shoes.
Step 4: Cleaning Laces and Insoles
While your tennis shoes are being washed, take the opportunity to clean the laces and insoles separately:
Cleaning Laces:
- Fill a basin or a container with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Place the laces in the soapy water and gently agitate them with your hands.
- Let them soak for 15-20 minutes, or until any dirt or stains are loosened.
- After soaking, rinse the laces thoroughly with cold water to remove all detergent.
- Hang the laces to air dry completely before reattaching them to your shoes.
Cleaning Insoles:
- Fill a basin or container with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Remove any loose dirt or debris from the insoles.
- Submerge the insoles in the soapy water and gently scrub them with a soft brush or an old toothbrush.
- Rinse the insoles thoroughly with cold water to remove all detergent.
- Pat them with a towel to remove excess moisture.
- Allow the insoles to air dry completely before placing them back in your shoes.
Step 5: Post-Wash Care
Once the washing machine cycle is complete, it’s essential to follow these post-wash care steps to ensure your tennis shoes maintain their shape and quality:
Remove shoes from the pillowcase or bag: Carefully take your tennis shoes out of the pillowcase or shoe bag. They should be clean and free of detergent residue.
Inspect for any remaining stains or dirt: Check your shoes for any lingering stains or spots. If necessary, repeat the stain treatment and washing process or use a soft brush to gently scrub the affected areas.
Reshape your shoes: To help your shoes retain their shape, stuff them with clean, dry towels or newspaper. This also helps absorb excess moisture from the interior.
Dry your shoes: Allow your tennis shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can damage the shoes and cause them to lose their form.
Reattach laces and insoles: Once your shoes are completely dry, reattach the laces and insoles. Ensure they are secure and properly positioned.
Step 6: Additional Tips and Considerations
To ensure the longevity of your tennis shoes and maintain their appearance, consider these additional tips and precautions:
Frequency of washing: Avoid washing your tennis shoes too frequently. Only clean them when they are noticeably dirty or have an odor. Excessive washing can wear down the materials and reduce their lifespan.
Use shoe trees: Invest in shoe trees or shoe forms to help your shoes maintain their shape when not in use.
Handwashing alternative: If you’re unsure about machine washing or have particularly delicate shoes, consider handwashing them using a mild detergent and a soft brush or cloth.
Avoid submerging leather shoes: Leather tennis shoes should never be submerged in water. Instead, clean them using a damp cloth or leather cleaner specifically designed for shoes.
Store properly: Store your clean tennis shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and damage.
Conclusion
Knowing how to wash tennis shoes in a washing machine can be a valuable skill for any active individual. With the right materials, precautions, and care, you can keep your favorite sneakers looking and smelling fresh, all while extending their lifespan.
Remember that not all tennis shoes are suitable for machine washing, so always check the manufacturer’s care instructions. When in doubt, opt for hand cleaning to ensure the longevity of your footwear.
By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide and considering the tips provided, you can keep your tennis shoes in top condition and ready for your next adventure on the court, track, or street.
