Can You Put Gym Shoes In The Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash gym shoes in the washing machine, as long as they are not made of suede or leather. Shoes made from non-animal-based materials such as canvas, polyester, cotton, and nylon can be machine washed on a delicate cycle with cold water, ideally at 30°C.
However, it’s always advisable to first check the care label for any specific cleaning instructions.
Make sure your gym shoes do not feature any panels or details made from suede or leather by inspecting the size label sewn on the inside of the tongue for the leather symbol, which resembles a small animal hide. If this symbol is present, avoid putting the gym shoes in the washing machine.
But there’s more to it if you want to keep them in top shape. Read along to learn some simple tips on handling, drying, and even when to give them a hand wash instead.
How To Properly Machine Wash Your Gym Shoes
Begin by removing the insoles and laces, which should be washed separately.
Place each shoe in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase if mesh bags are unavailable. Adding a few old towels to the machine can help distribute the weight evenly and prevent your shoes from banging around during the cycle.
Avoid using powder laundry detergent, as it may stick in difficult-to-clean spots; liquid laundry detergent or laundry pods are preferable. Select the delicate wash cycle, set the temperature to 30°C, and opt for a low spin speed, such as 800 RPM.
After washing, reshape each shoe with newspaper to absorb excess moisture and allow your shoes to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. It’s best not to dry your gym shoes in a tumble dryer as the heat could dissolve the glue, causing the shoes to fall apart or the materials to shrink or warp.
How To Hand Wash Your Gym Shoes
While hand washing takes more time, it’s an effective and gentler way to clean your gym shoes, especially those with leather or suede parts.
Combine a small amount of laundry detergent with warm water in a bowl and use an old toothbrush for cleaning. This method is ideal for gym shoes with materials not suitable for washing machines.
Hand wash the laces and insoles in a bowl of warm water mixed with a small amount of laundry detergent. Gently swirl them in the solution, then rinse with clean water before air drying.
Pro tip: For leather gym shoes, clean them with a solution made from equal parts of cold water and white vinegar, wiping lightly with a cloth dampened in the solution and allowing them to dry naturally, away from direct sunlight and heat.
How Often Should You Wash Your Gym Shoes?
Regularly washing your gym shoes is crucial to prevent wear and tear from sweat and reduce the risk of fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
Washing them every two weeks is recommended for those who use their gym shoes a couple of times a week, with adjustments based on frequency of use and how dirty they become.
SEE ALSO: Can You Put Converse Trainers In The Washing Machine?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can wash gym shoes in the washing machine if they are not made from suede or leather. Use a delicate cycle with cold water at 30°C, and always check the care label first.
To clean dirty gym shoes, remove the insoles and laces for separate washing, place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase, and wash on a delicate cycle with cold water and liquid detergent. For hand washing, especially for shoes with leather or suede, use a gentle detergent with warm water and a soft brush.
No, it’s not safe to put soaked gym shoes in the dryer as the heat can damage the glue, causing the shoes to fall apart, and may also cause materials to shrink or warp. Air drying is recommended.
Yes, you should wash your gym shoes to prevent wear and tear from sweat and reduce the risk of fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Follow the appropriate washing instructions based on the material of your shoes.
You should wash gym shoes every two weeks if you use them a couple of times a week, adjusting based on how often you wear them and how dirty they become.
