How to Wash Shoes Without Damaging Their Material
How to Wash Shoes Properly Without Ruining Them
Everyone knows it: beloved sneakers that look great with every outfit lose their shine over time. Mud, dust, sweat, or spilled coffee—all take their toll on their surface. And that's when the question arises: how to wash shoes so they look like new again? Many people consider the simple solution of throwing them straight into the washing machine. But is it really safe? And what if they are white, meaning even more prone to dirt and damage? The answer isn't as black and white as it may seem, so we're bringing you a comprehensive overview of how to approach washing shoes responsibly—for their lifespan and for a better world around us.
Shoes in the Washing Machine: Yes, but with Caution
You might have wondered: “Can I just throw these shoes in the washing machine and be done with it?" The short answer is yes, but not always, and certainly not without preparation. Not all types of footwear are suitable for machine washing. Canvas sneakers, running shoes, or fabric slip-ons usually handle a gentle cycle without consequences, whereas leather, suede, or specially treated footwear literally screams "no" to the washing machine.
The key to success is proper preparation. First, the shoes need to be cleaned of coarse dirt—ideally with a dry brush or an old toothbrush. Then remove the laces and insoles, which are better washed separately, preferably by hand. The entire shoes can then be placed in a laundry bag or an old pillowcase, reducing the risk of damage to both the shoes and the washing machine drum. As for the cycle—forget about high spins and hot water. The ideal is a gentle cycle at 30°C without spinning, or with very low spins.
The detergent should be gentle, ideally eco-friendly—not only for the shoe material but also for the environment. Avoid fabric softeners and harsh bleaches. Many natural detergent brands, such as Tierra Verde or Sonett, offer gentle laundry gels that are biodegradable and gentle on materials. Their composition does not include any synthetic perfumes or enzymes that could compromise the shoe's structure.
And how to dry the shoes? Definitely not on a radiator or in direct sunlight, even though it's tempting. Heat can cause deformation or cracking of the material. Ideally, let them dry at room temperature, preferably with newspapers stuffed inside, which help maintain shape and absorb moisture.
Washing White Shoes
If there's any type of footwear sensitive to dirt and mishandling, it's undoubtedly white shoes. Whether they are white canvas sneakers, leather sneakers, or sports shoes, even the smallest stain shows immediately. That's why the question arises of how to best wash white shoes without risking yellow stains or fading.
The key to success is speed—the sooner the dirt is addressed, the better. If the shoes need to be washed entirely, the same rules apply as with other fabrics: a gentle cycle, gentle detergent, and low temperature. Additionally, we can turn to natural helpers. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide form a proven combination that deals with stubborn dirt. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of peroxide and a bit of water to create a paste. Apply it to the dirty areas and let it work for a few hours. Then just rinse or add the shoes to the washing machine.
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Another option is to use lemon juice—it acts with a mild bleaching effect and also neutralizes odors. The advantage of these home methods is not only their effectiveness and availability but also their gentleness on materials and nature.
A real-life example shows how effective even simple methods can be. Jana, a student from Brno, shares her experience: "I had white Converse that looked like they came from a landfill after a summer festival. I scrubbed them with a paste of baking soda and peroxide, then washed them in the machine at 30°C in a bag and let them dry on the balcony in the shade. They looked almost like new."
Alternatives to Washing
Washing isn't always necessary—and it should actually be the last resort. Regular shoe maintenance is key to their longevity. After each wear, it's advisable to dry them, leave them in an open space, and refresh them occasionally with a natural deodorizing spray. This can easily be made at home—from water, vinegar, and a few drops of essential oil (such as tea tree or lavender).
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In addition, there are eco-friendly cleaning foams, such as those from brands like Attitude or You & Oil, which are applied without water and simply wiped off with a cloth. They are ideal for leather shoes or suede, which definitely won't appreciate the washing machine.
Prevention is always better than dealing with consequences. Against stains and moisture, natural-based impregnations help, which do not contain silicone or PFC compounds but still effectively repel water. Regular use of such impregnation can significantly extend the lifespan of shoes and save you the trouble of washing.
At first glance, washing shoes may seem like a small detail in everyday life. In reality, however, it's a topic that touches on sustainability, personal style, and health. Well-maintained footwear not only looks better and lasts longer but also places less burden on the planet. Instead of thoughtlessly replacing old shoes with new ones, a bit of extra care is often a better choice—and perhaps a new perspective on everyday necessities.
As they say—"a lot can be said about a person by their shoes." So why not show that it can be done cleanly, gently, and thoughtfully?
