How to Wash Trainers in Washing Machine Safely

Ready to give your kicks that brand-new vibe again? You've come to the right place! Cleaning your favorite trainers in the washing machine can feel a bit risky, but with the right steps, it's totally safe.

Follow these quick steps on how to wash trainers in a washing machine without ruining their shape or materials.

Start by checking if your trainers can be washed in a washing machine from the care label. Next, prep your trainers by taking out laces and brushing, pop them in a wash bag, and choose the right washing machine settings.

How to Wash Trainers in Washing Machine?

You’ll need a few things:

Mild detergent
A soft brush
A mesh laundry bag
A few old towels

Step 1: Check if your trainers can be washed

Leather, suede, rubber, and vinyl materials are usually a no-go for the washing machine, as water can damage them or cause cracking. Wash these by hand.

Trainers made from synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, cotton, and canvas are typically durable enough to handle a machine wash.

Heads up though. Nike, New Balance, ASICS, Salomon, UGG, and ON Running generally advise hand washing, rather than machine washing their sneakers. As a rule of thumb, always double-check the care label of your trainers to be on the safe side.

Step 2: Prepare your trainers

Take out the laces and insoles. Then, brush off any loose dirt or mud to avoid clogging the machine and ensure an even clean.

Step 3: Put your trainers inside a wash bag

Pop each shoe into a mesh laundry bag. No bag? No worries! An old pillowcase works fine, just make sure to tie it securely. This stops your trainers from banging around during the cycle. Next, toss in a couple of jeans or old towels to balance the load and cushion your shoes against the drum.

Step 4: Choose the right washing machine settings

Use a gentle or delicate cycle at 30°C with mild liquid detergent.

Go for a gentle cycle. Keep the spin low and skip bleach or fabric softener. Toss in those towels to help balance the load and reduce noise. This is the last step on how to wash trainers in a machine.

Can You Tumble Dry Trainers?

Avoid this as heat weakens glue and warps soles. Instead, let your trainers air dry naturally at room temperature. Stuff them with paper towels to keep their shape and absorb moisture. Always avoid direct sunlight or radiators.

How to Wash Trainers in a Machine FAQs

Can you put trainers in a washing machine?

Yes. If they’re made from fabric, mesh, or canvas. Just avoid washing leather, suede, or nubuck styles in a machine. And always check the care label first.

How long to wash trainers in washing machine?

A gentle wash cycle of about 30–40 minutes will do the job. This cycle length, combined with proper preparation, helps clean your shoes without causing damage.

Should I put my trainers in a pillowcase in the washing machine?

Yes! If you don’t have a mesh laundry bag, tie the pillowcase securely to avoid them being damaged from getting banged around by the washing machine’s drum.