Do you lead an active lifestyle that requires frequent visits to the gym? If so, then chances are your workout gear, particularly your shoes, get dirty and smelly over time. But do you just ignore it, or is there a way of washing them? The good news is that there is an easy way to clean your gym shoes!
In this article, we'll show you how to safely wash gym shoes in the washing machine so you can keep your athletic look fresh and sparklingly clean.
Which Shoes Are Machine Washable?
Shoes made with materials like canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester are ideal to be washed in a washing machine. These lightweight fabrics are strong enough to withstand the harsh chemicals of laundry detergent, while remaining easy to shape and dry quickly.
It's always a good idea to check the care instructions of your shoes before putting them in the washer; this will help prevent any unnecessary damage during the cleaning process.
In contrast, shoes crafted from leather, suede, rubber or vinyl should be kept from washing in a machine. These materials are too delicate for a washing machine's spin cycle and cleaning detergents; they require hand cleaning or professional treatment to avoid ruining them.
Furthermore, beading, sequins or other embellishments may become loose or damaged if placed in a washer or dryer; therefore, these shoes should be brought to an experienced cobbler who specializes in shoe repair and cleaning services.
How To Wash Your Gym Shoes in the Washer
When it comes to keeping your shoes clean, taking extra care is always necessary. This is why we have created a guide that can be followed, so you ensure that you are washing your gym shoes properly.
Remove the Laces and Insoles To Wash by Hand
Before washing, removing the laces and insoles from your shoes is important. This ensures that no parts of them get tangled or wrapped up in the drum while your shoes are being washed.
To clean these, clean them with a soft brush or rag and slightly soapy water. This will help remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has built up over time. Take special care when cleaning around seams or stitching, and rinse any soap residue thoroughly. Once all of the dirt has been removed, use a sponge to soak up as much of the excess moisture as possible before moving on to the next step.
To keep the laces from becoming tangled, they should be washed inside a securely closed mesh garment bag if you choose to throw them in the laundry room. If there are any particularly stubborn messes on the laces, laundry detergent, and a soft brush can scrub them manually.
Clean the Soles
When it comes to cleaning mud and debris from the soles of your shoes, a soft brush is the best tool for the job. Depending on the type of shoe, a toothbrush or toothpicks allow you to access smaller areas in which dirt can accumulate.
To begin, use a soft brush or cloth to sweep away any larger pieces of debris, taking care not to damage your shoes. If necessary, use a cleaner specifically made for shoes to remove any stubborn dirt from hard-to-reach places.
Once this is done, it's time to tackle scuff marks. Start by applying a small amount of shoe cleaner to a rag or soft brush and gently rub on to messy areas until all scuff marks have been removed.
Finally, give your shoes one last wipe down with a damp cloth and let them air dry before wearing them again. With proper care and maintenance, your shoes will look as good as new in no time!
Place the Shoes in a Mesh Garment Bag and Wash the Shoes
You must first carefully place your shoes in a mesh garment bag, ensuring that the bag is large enough for the shoes to fit without getting squashed or crumpled. This will help prevent any damage from occurring during the washing process.
Next, add a few old towels to the washer with your shoes. The towels serve multiple purposes; they help balance out the load in the machine but also provide an extra layer of cushioning and protection for your shoes from tumbling around too much. It’s important to use only older towels that have been washed many times before since newer ones may contain excess dyes that can stain your shoes.
Set your washer on a delicate cycle with cold water and select either a slow or no-spin option so your shoes don’t get damaged by excessive spinning motions within the machine.
For a detergent, it’s best to go with either pre-measured or laundry pods which are designed not to leave behind a residue like powder detergents may do if they don't dissolve completely. For the best results, use Tru Earths' laundry detergent strips.
Unlike other detergents which may contain harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin or cause allergies, these hypoallergenic laundry strips provide a safe and gentle alternative for those who suffer from sensitive skin or allergies. The natural cleaning agents used in these strips are effective against all types of dirt, odors, and stains while remaining gentle on fabrics at the same time.
Additionally, they are also paraben-free and phosphate-free as well as free of added dyes, chlorine bleach, 1,4-dioxane, and any animal-based ingredients or testing. In addition, independent laboratory tests have certified that the laundry strips are readily biodegradable, while dermatologists have certified the hypoallergenic nature of the product.
Once you’ve finished all these steps, start up your washing machine and let it run its course according to your desired settings. When it’s done running, take out the garment bag, towels, and freshly cleaned shoes.
Drying the Shoes
Air-drying your shoes is often the best option, but if you're in a hurry, you can use a dryer on a delicate setting. To avoid damage to your shoes from the tumbling and warmth of the dryer, it's important to wrap them in old towels first.
It's important to stop the drying cycle periodically to check on your shoes and ensure they are not getting too hot or damaged by the tumbling motion.
The sun is also an effective way to air-dry your shoes quickly; just make sure to place them in an area that gets plenty of direct sunlight. The radiant heat will help speed up the process of drying out any moisture trapped within. This can take several days, so make sure you allow enough time for this method as well.
In either case, it's best to keep an eye on your shoes while they are airing out or being dried with a machine; this will ensure they are not subjected to any unnecessary damage.
Do Shoes Shrink in the Washing Machine?
Typically, gym shoes should be washed on a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent shrinking and damage. Hot water cycles can cause shoes to shrink and become misshapen or discolored.
After washing your shoes, always air dry them overnight rather than putting them in the dryer, which could cause your shoes to shrink due to their high heat setting. Remember that taking precautions such as reading and following care instructions, using cold water cycles, and air drying can help preserve your shoe’s shape and size, giving your footwear longer-lasting wearability.
