Are your favorite sneakers looking a little worse for wear? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide on how to clean them using a washing machine. Follow these simple steps to restore your shoes to their former glory.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:
- Sneakers
- Laundry bag
- Towel, sheet, or duvet cover
- Washing powder or liquid gel/capsules
- Warm water
- Brush
- Baking soda (optional)
- Insoles and laces
Step 2: Prepare Your Sneakers
Begin by removing the laces and insoles from your sneakers. It’s best to wash these separately for a thorough clean. Take a moment to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for any specific instructions.
Precaution: Ensure that the washing machine you’re using is suitable for washing sneakers and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Step 3: Clean the Soles
Mix 2 liters of warm water with some washing powder. Use a brush to clean the soles of your sneakers, removing any dirt or grime. This step helps prepare the shoes for washing and ensures a more effective clean.
Precaution: Avoid using harsh brushes or abrasive cleaners that could damage the material of your sneakers.
Step 4: Load the Washing Machine
Place your sneakers in a special laundry bag to protect them during the wash cycle. Add a towel, sheet, or duvet cover to fill any empty space in the drum and prevent excessive spinning.
Precaution: Do not overload the washing machine, as this can affect the effectiveness of the wash and may damage your sneakers.
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Step 5: Choose the Right Settings
Opt for a shoe wash cycle if available, or select a delicate or fast mode. Use the minimum temperature setting (around 30 degrees Celsius) and turn off the spin completely. Consider adding an extra rinse for thorough cleaning.
Precaution: Always double-check the settings on your washing machine to ensure they are suitable for washing sneakers.
Step 6: Wash Insoles and Laces
While your sneakers are washing, soak the insoles and laces in warm water with washing powder for about 20 minutes. After soaking, wash them by hand, gently rubbing to remove dirt and odors.
Precaution: Avoid using hot water or strong detergents on delicate materials like insoles and laces, as this can cause damage.
Step 7: Rinse and Dry
After washing, rinse the laces and insoles under running water. Allow excess water to drain from the sneakers before drying them. Avoid using heating devices like radiators; instead, opt for outdoor shade or a well-ventilated room.
Precaution: Do not expose wet sneakers to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause shrinkage or damage to the material.
Step 8: Freshen Up
For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda on the wet insoles before putting them back in the shoes. This helps eliminate odors and keeps your sneakers smelling clean.
Precaution: Use baking soda sparingly and ensure it is completely dry before inserting the insoles back into your sneakers.
Step 9: Reassemble and Enjoy
Once your sneakers are dry, lace them up and insert the clean insoles. Shake off any remaining baking soda and enjoy your freshly cleaned shoes!
Pros of Using the Washing Machine Method to Clean Sneakers:
- Convenience: Washing sneakers in the machine is convenient and requires minimal effort compared to hand washing.
- Effective Cleaning: The machine’s agitation and detergent help remove dirt, stains, and odors effectively.
- Time-Saving: Washing multiple pairs of sneakers at once saves time and energy.
- Preserves Color: Using gentle settings and cold water helps preserve the color of sneakers.
- Eliminates Odors: Washing in the machine with detergent and baking soda helps eliminate unpleasant odors.
- Suitable for Most Materials: This method is generally suitable for sneakers made of various materials like canvas, mesh, and synthetic fabrics.
Cons of Using the Washing Machine Method to Clean Sneakers:
- Potential Damage: The machine’s agitation and spinning can potentially damage delicate materials or decorative elements on sneakers.
- Noisy Process: The washing machine can be noisy during the wash and spin cycles, which may be disruptive.
- Risk of Color Transfer: Mixing sneakers of different colors in the same load can lead to color transfer, affecting the appearance of lighter-colored sneakers.
- Requires Monitoring: It’s essential to monitor the washing process closely to ensure the sneakers are not subjected to excessive spinning or harsh conditions.
- Not Suitable for All Sneakers: Some sneakers may not be suitable for machine washing due to their materials or construction, requiring alternative cleaning methods.
- Insoles and Laces Care: Washing insoles and laces separately by hand adds extra steps to the cleaning process.
- Drying Challenges: Drying sneakers properly without causing damage or deformation can be challenging, especially without access to outdoor space or adequate ventilation.
Overall, while using the washing machine can be a convenient and effective way to clean sneakers, it’s important to consider the potential risks and take precautions to ensure the best results without damaging your favorite footwear.
Conclusion
Cleaning your sneakers in the washing machine is a simple and effective way to restore their appearance and eliminate odors. Follow these steps regularly to keep your favorite shoes looking and smelling great. Happy cleaning!
