Washing Trainers In Washing Machine? (read this first)

We all have that one particular pair of trainers that are our favourite. If they become dirty it’s only natural that we’d want to clean them thoroughly, and what better way to wash those special trainers than in the washing machine? That’s exactly what we’re going to find out in this article.

Can You Wash Trainers In The Washing Machine?

This depends on the materials used to construct your trainers. Any trainers made from animal products like leather or suede should never be washed in a washing machine even at low temperatures. However, synthetic trainers made from polyester or nylon can, in some cases, be washed in the washing machine.

Always check the care label in your trainers to see whether they are suitable for washing in a washing machine

If the care label advises against machine washing your trainers, you’ll have to gently wash them using a cloth. But even if the care label says it’s OK to wash your trainers in a machine, you should still take care.

A Word Of Caution

Unless your washing machine actually states that trainers can be washed in it, we would advise you not to wash your trainers in the machine. This is because it is possible to damage the paddles in the drum which are only plastic after all. If they do become damaged they will snag on your laundry and potentially ruin your clothes.

Unless stated in the instruction manual of your particular machine that trainers can be washed using the machine, if any damage occurs your warranty will be invalidated. As many modern washing machines have sealed drums and paddles that cannot be replaced, the result could mean you’ll need to buy a replacement machine.

However, if the manual states that trainers can be washed in the machine, or better yet, if the machine has a trainer wash program, and the paddles break, you have a solid legal footing for the manufacturer to repair or replace your machine.

How To Wash Trainers In A Washing Machine

To safely wash your trainers in a washing machine follow these simple instructions;

1. Remove the laces
   These should be taken out of the trainers before washing.
2. Remove any excess mud
   Using a soft toothbrush, gently brush any excess mud or dried dirt from each trainer.
3. Place the trainers and laces inside a wash bag
   Using a wash bag will prevent the laces or trainers becoming snagged on the drum paddles or door seal.
4. Add a couple of towels to the drum
   The addition of a few towels will prevent the trainers from damaging the drum or any other internal parts of the washing machine. As well as cutting down on any noise as the trainers roll around the drum.
5. Wash on a cold water program
   Whatever the care label advises, it is always best to use a cold water wash to prevent any colour fade, glue melting, sole misshapen or shrinkage.
6. Use a high quality colour detergent
   Always use a high quality colour detergent which should be added via a dosing ball when loading the trainers into the machine.

Can Trainers Be Dried In A Tumble Dryer?

It could be tempting to put the trainers into the tumble dryer as soon as the washing machine has finished to get them dry. However, you should never dry trainers in a tumble dryer

Any heat could potentially ruin your trainers;

• The sole could become disformed
• The glue used to construct the trainers could melt
• The material could shrink
• The trainers could split
• The trainers could become misshapen

For more in depth information on why you should never dry trainers in a tumble dryer read our article Can you put trainers in the tumble dryer here.

Frequently Asked Questions