Washing sneakers: How to do it properly

Table of contents

• Introduction

• The myths about sneakers in the washing machine

• We have created an FAQ for you that answers all your questions about “sneaker washing”

  • Can I wash sneakers in the washing machine?

  • How can I wash my sneakers in the washing machine?

  • How often can I wash sneakers in the washing machine?

  • What can happen if I wash my sneakers in the washing machine?

  • Which detergent should I use to wash sneakers?

  • Can I wash several sneakers in the washing machine at the same time?

  • What spin speed should I choose when washing sneakers?

  • At what temperature can I wash my sneakers in the washing machine?

  • Can you wash leather sneakers in the washing machine?

  • Can you wash all sneakers in the washing machine?

• How to wash sneakers by hand
  • Prepare everything you need

    you need

  • Clean the sole properly

  • Find the right cleaners

  • Use the right brushes

  • This will make your shoelaces look like new

  • Destroy odors

  • Dry your sneakers properly

  • Impregnate

• Are there differences when washing a leather sneaker and a fabric sneaker?

• Conclusion

Clean sneakers are important to us at Asphaltgold. That's why we clean our shoes regularly; it's just part of the job. When researching this text, we noticed recurring questions.

Can I wash sneakers in the washing machine? Or: Which cleaner should I use for what? And, because that's not enough, the thought probably pops into some people's heads: Can I break something? We want to shed some light on the matter. That's why you'll find the ultimate guide to washing, cleaning and cleaning sneakers here. Let's start with the washing machine.

The idea of ​​being able to wash all your sneakers in the washing machine is wonderful. We can say in advance: Yes, you can wash your sneakers in the washing machine, but not all of them. And you have to pay attention to a few things so that your favorite sneakers come out of the washing machine in one piece. To save you time in the future, we'll give you the dos and don'ts and answer all the questions we keep getting.

We have had good experiences with sneakers in the washing machine and have been disappointed. That's why we are cautious about this topic. When we read that there are recommendations to wash sneakers in the dishwasher, we were shocked. Please don't do that. It sounds funny, but we want to keep our sneakers in good esteem and not mix them with the leftovers from the last pasta Napoli.

 The most important information can be found here at a glance:

DOS

• Sneakers made of synthetic materials can be washed in the washing machine

• Always wash sneakers in a laundry net

• Remove insole

• Remove all applications from the sneaker

• Remove laces and wash separately in a laundry net

• Wash sneakers below 30 degrees

• Use the program for delicates or easy-care items

• Use short wash cycle

• Set gentle spin (approx. 400 - max. 800)

• Pad the washing machine with towels

• Use a maximum of one third of the detergent

• Stuff sneakers with newspaper after washing

• Let sneakers dry without sun and heat

DOS

• Sneakers made of synthetic materials can be washed in the washing machine

• Always wash sneakers in a laundry net

• Remove insole

• Remove all applications from the sneaker

• Remove laces and wash separately in a laundry net

• Wash sneakers below 30 degrees

• Use the program for delicates or easy-care items

• Use short wash cycle

• Set gentle spin (approx. 400 - max. 800)

• Pad the washing machine with towels

• Use a maximum of one third of the detergent

• Stuff sneakers with newspaper after washing

• Let sneakers dry without sun and heat

DONTs

• Throw leather sneakers in the washing machine

• Machine wash sneakers with elaborate decorations and appliqués

• Use washing programs above 30 degrees

• Use spin speeds above 800

• Throw the sneaker, including the laces and insole, into the washing machine.

• Drying sneakers in the tumble dryer

• Drying sneakers in the sun

• Drying sneakers on the heater

• Use fabric softener

Can I wash sneakers in the washing machine?

Yes and no. You can wash sneakers made of synthetic materials in the washing machine. You should never wash leather sneakers in the washing machine. You should also avoid putting shoes with appliqués (metal, rhinestones, patches, etc.) in the washing machine. Appliqués can come off.

Step 1: Only put your shoes in the washing machine if they are made of synthetic material. The material composition is usually stated on the shoe label. If you no longer have this, you can google the model and item number. If the shoe is still available to buy, you will also find all the information about the material in the product details.
Please note: Sneakers made of genuine leather and shoes with applications (metal, rhinestones, etc.) must not be put in the washing machine.

Step 2: Remove coarse dirt from the sneakers with a gentle brush.

Step 3: Remove the laces, the insole and any removable appliqués. Place the laces in a laundry net. Alternatively, you can use a pillowcase.

Step 4: Pack your sneakers in a laundry net or pillowcase.

Step 5: Take a few towels and put them in the washing machine as well. This will protect the drum and the sneakers.

Step 6: Choose a gentle wash program, such as delicates, easy care or wool wash. Some washing machines even offer a program for sneakers. Set the machine to a maximum of 30 degrees and select gentle spin (400 - max. 800).

Step 7: Use only a third of the amount of detergent you would normally use for a full load of laundry. Avoid using fabric softener, as this will make your sneakers porous.

Step 8: When the wash cycle is finished, stuff your sneakers with newspaper. This is the best way to absorb the liquid and ensure that your shoes keep their shape. You can also use Zewa, but it is not quite as effective as newspaper. Dry your sneakers in a place that is protected from direct sunlight and heat. Never place your sneakers directly on the heater or in the sun. This will reduce the lifespan of the material and can lead to unsightly dry edges.

Step 9: When your shoes are completely dry, you can re-lace the shoes and put the insole in. Done!

Shoe manufacturers generally do not recommend washing shoes in the washing machine. We know from experience that sneakers made of synthetic material can be washed in the washing machine. However, every wash cycle carries risks, as the upper, sole, shape, cushioning and adhesive edges can suffer - even with synthetic materials. We cannot give a specific number of wash cycles per sneaker. We recommend that you always wash your shoes by hand.

What can happen if I wash my sneakers in the washing machine?

If you are not careful about which shoes you wash and how, your sneakers can come out of the machine looking very unsightly.

These are the risks of washing sneakers in the washing machine:

• Adhesive edges turn yellow

• Sole adhesive may come loose

• The cushioning of the sole can break

• Leather inserts can become porous and brittle

• The shape of the sneakers can warp

• Applications (metal, rhinestones, patches, etc.) can come off

• Dry edges may occur

Smooth leather shoes in particular should not be put in the washing machine. But sneakers with mesh and leather trim can also be damaged in the washing machine. The leather overlays suffer and the shape quickly becomes distorted.

Which detergent should I use to wash sneakers?

You can use conventional detergents. It is best to use liquid detergent, as powder can lead to white marks. Make sure that you only use a maximum of a third of the conventional amount for washing. Please do not use fabric softener, as this can make your sneakers porous.

Can I wash several sneakers in the washing machine at the same time?

Yes, but we recommend that you do not wash more than two or three pairs. Make sure the material and color are similar and pack the machine with enough towels to protect the drum and the sneakers from impact.

What spin speed should I choose when washing sneakers?

It is best to choose a very gentle spin cycle. Choose a number between 400 and a maximum of 800.

At what temperature can I wash my sneakers in the washing machine?

Never wash your sneakers at temperatures above 30 degrees. Use a gentle wash program, such as delicates, easy care or wool wash. Some washing machines even offer a program for sneakers. Be sure to select a gentle spin cycle (400 - max. 800).

Can you wash leather sneakers in the washing machine?

No. The leather will become porous and will not last long. We have heard of successful washing of leather sneakers, but we strongly advise against it. You should also be careful with mesh and leather sneakers. It may work the first time, but the second time the sneaker will have lost its shape. If you want to know how to clean leather sneakers, check out this guide.

Can you wash all sneakers in the washing machine?

No. Please only wash sneakers made of synthetic material. Avoid putting leather or nubuck sneakers in the washing machine. Sneakers with applications (metal, rhinestones, patches, leather overlays, etc.) can also be damaged by a wash cycle.

Washing sneakers in the washing machine is risky. It can work well, but you can also do a lot wrong. If the sneakers are only slightly dirty, we always recommend washing them by hand. That way, you can do much less wrong.

How to wash sneakers by hand

We prefer to wash our sneakers by hand. There are a few things to consider and it takes more time, but if you clean your sneakers yourself, they will last longer. Find out how to clean your sneakers properly by hand here and now. We'll give you tips and tricks.

Have everything you need ready

Take your time and make yourself a good drink, get everything you need ready and put a towel underneath you that can get dirty. You should have the following ready for cleaning the shoes: a brush suitable for the material of the sneakers, cleaning products of your choice, a sponge or microfiber cloth, an eraser and a waterproofing spray.

Clean the sole properly

We actually find it the most difficult to get the sole really clean again. Some brands have midsole cleaners that you can leave on for a short time and then simply wipe off with a sponge, brush or microfiber cloth. We've had very good experiences with them so far. If you prefer to use home remedies, use an eraser. With the classic erasers from school, you can get almost any stubborn dirt off the sole. You can also use dirt erasers, but we swear by the good old white eraser, it's the most effective. We also keep seeing the tip that you can use nail polish remover. We advise against this.

Find the right cleaners

There are countless cleaners on the market. Cleaners with integrated brushes, foam, liquid cleaners, etc. Of course, all of them have their place, but you can also use a mild washing-up liquid or liquid soap. If you really want a special sneaker cleaner, we recommend Jason Markk. We are fans of the RTU Foam , which you can use straight away without any extra water. We also think the Premium Shoe Cleaner is really good. It can be used on all materials, for example: leather, suede, nubuck, cotton, mesh.

Use the right brushes

In addition to sneaker cleaners, there is also a large selection of brushes. Jason Markk offers the gentle Premium Cleaning Brush . If such brushes are too expensive for you, you can also use a toothbrush. For nubuck and suede, we recommend a special crepe brush. This brush can remove many stains from suede - without any water.

This will make your shoelaces look like new

Take the laces out and wash them separately in the washing machine in a laundry net. You can also soak them in lukewarm water and soap. For stubborn stains, you can also pre-treat them with stain removers. When your laces are dry, you can also treat them with a fabric shaver. This will remove all the small fluff. If you also want completely smooth laces, simply iron them. You can also use a straightening iron for this. This will make your laces look like new in no time.

The Upper Clean

After you've cleaned the sole and removed the laces, you can clean the upper. Make sure your cleaner and brush are suitable for the upper in question. Take a damp sponge or microfiber cloth and go over any stains. Even if you use the right cleaner, brush or sponge, treat your sneakers with care so you don't damage the upper by rubbing too hard. Once you're done cleaning, remove any remaining foam and dirt with a cloth.

Destroy odors

If you wash your sneakers by hand, you have to take care of getting rid of any annoying smells yourself. You can of course do this with a shoe deodorant. But you can also use household remedies, because baking soda neutralizes odors. To do this, simply shake a little powder into the sneakers and leave it to work overnight. The next day, you can vacuum it or shake it out.

Dry your sneakers properly

When you're done, stuff your sneakers with newspaper. Of course, you should only do this if the shoes have become very wet. The paper absorbs the liquid best and ensures that your shoes keep their shape. Dry your sneakers in a place that is protected from direct sunlight and heat. Never place your sneakers directly on the heater or in the sun. This will reduce the lifespan of the material and can lead to unsightly dry edges.

Impregnate

After cleaning (or even after purchase), you should definitely use waterproofing spray. Waterproofing protects your sneakers from moisture and dirt, especially in the cold months. And the best thing about it: the sneakers are easier to clean and, if necessary, get less dirty. You should also re-waterproof your sneakers regularly to maintain the protection. We can recommend the Repel Spray from Jason Markk. For smooth leather shoes, a cream or wax is recommended, which also gives them an additional shine.

Are there differences when washing a leather sneaker and a fabric sneaker?

Yes, leather sneakers should be cleaned differently than fabric sneakers. We have created a detailed guide on how to properly clean the different materials. To keep track, take a look at the detailed instructions:

Cleaning leather sneakers

Cleaning fabric sneakers

In our guides you will find step-by-step instructions for washing fabric and leather sneakers.

Conclusion

With our guide, we give you all of our knowledge. The most important thing is that you know which shoes can and cannot be put in the washing machine. To be sure: leather sneakers have no place in the washing machine. Be sure to get a washing net for the next wash cycle and make sure that you put as few of your sneakers in the washing machine as possible. You can get rid of dirt in no time with just a few household remedies and you don't need expensive cleaners. If you have a good waterproofing spray, your sneakers won't get dirty as quickly. And the good thing is: If it's really bad, you can also hire experts to clean your favorite sneakers. If you love your sneakers as much as we do, you should clean them regularly. With our guide, you can even get a super dirty white Air Force 1 clean again.

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