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How to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine: Save Time and Worry with This Guide

In addition to its regular laundry function, a washing machine can also be used to wash blankets, curtains, stuffed animals... Some people even wash sports shoes and doormats with it.

Administrator

26 February, 2024

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Nowadays, washing machines have become an essential appliance in modern households. Thanks to washing machines, housewives are relieved from laborious tasks and can save a lot of effort in their housework.

Ms. Le Lan Huong, a member of the Esheep Kitchen family, has successfully cleaned shoes and foot mats using a washing machine. After gaining experience, she shared her method with other members of the group, which garnered a lot of interest and excitement from homemakers.

Huong shared, “Clean shoes, cleaning mats, and foot mats… everything can be thrown into the washing machine. Trust me, washing by hand doesn’t clean as well as a washing machine does. Let’s save each other’s labor.

1. Combine shoe and foot mats for washing: The mats reduce the impact of shoes on the washing-drying unit. Furthermore, this method cleans the mats better than washing them separately.

Don’t worry about damaging your shoes. Compared to scrubbing shoes by hand, washing machines are much gentler. They also prevent spreading stains on the shoes as a result of insufficient water during hand washing. As for foot mats, it’s near impossible to wash them by hand. And for those who take their shoes to the store, please disregard my advice. By the end of the washing cycle, sports shoes have used 90% less water compared to hand washing. With the current weather, when will the shoes ever dry?

After washing, put them in the dryer for 2 hours to completely dry. If you don’t have a dryer, hang them in a cool, well-ventilated place, and they will dry quickly.

Shoes before washing (left) and after washing (right) using a washing machine

2. For kitchen towels and other cleaning towels, use dishwashing liquid for washing. It cleans oil stains better than laundry detergent.

After washing with a washing machine, set the cleaning mode for the washing drum, pre-set temperature to 60 degrees Celsius, and let it emit hot steam. To be cautious, insert a washing drum cleanser pill into the cleaning cycle every few months.

Note: After washing the shoes, then turn on the “clean drum” mode, and let the machine automatically set the temperature to 60 degrees Celsius for bacterial elimination. Do not wash in the “clean drum” mode.

So, should shoes and foot mats be washed using a washing machine?

Washing shoes and foot mats using a washing machine can quickly and conveniently clean your footwear without spending time washing by hand. Additionally, using a washing machine enables better drying of shoes, which saves a significant amount of time for drying, especially for busy individuals.

However, when washing shoes and foot mats using a washing machine, you should pay attention to the following:

Only wash sports shoes: Washing machines are only suitable for certain types of shoes, such as tennis shoes or running shoes. Leather or faux leather shoes that you love will be seriously damaged when washed using a machine.

Remove laces and insoles: To keep your laces from tangling, remove them from the shoes and put them in a separate bag or pillowcase before placing them in the washing machine. Meanwhile, the insoles should be hand-washed.

Add towels: Before putting the shoes in the washing machine, add 4-6 old towels. This will help balance the load and prevent the shoes from banging around during the wash. You can also put your sports shoes in a mesh laundry bag for added protection.

Select a slow wash cycle: If possible, choose a cycle with a slow spin speed. Using a low spin speed helps ensure that your washing machine remains balanced.

Disinfect if necessary: To prevent fungus from developing in your shoes, try adding a disinfectant to the beginning of the wash cycle. Washing with warm water will be more effective in this case.

Avoid using the dryer function: After completing the wash cycle, it’s time to dry your shoes. However, using the dryer function is not recommended as the high temperature can damage the shoe’s adhesive and even cause certain types of fabric or material to shrink. The dryer can also permanently warp your shoes, affecting their fit and performance.

– To properly dry your shoes, find a cool and well-ventilated space. In general, you should only wash your shoes when you have enough time for them to air dry naturally. However, if you need your shoes to dry quickly, you can place them in front of a fan and stuff some small towels inside to help them maintain their shape as they dry.

– You should use liquid detergent and wash your shoes with cold water unless you need disinfection.

Step-by-step Instructions for Washing Shoes Using a Washing Machine

Step 1: Read the label on the shoes carefully

Some popular shoe brands often provide instructions on whether to use soap, stain remover, or the ideal water temperature. From there, you will know the best way to treat stains and odors on your shoes.

Step 2: Rinse the shoes briefly

Spray the shoes under a strong water stream to remove any mud or dirt. This will make it easier to clean the shoes during washing. If there are many dried-on stains, use an old brush to remove them before washing.

Step 3: Protect the shoes and reduce noise levels

Place the shoes in a laundry bag or use a spare pillowcase if available. Also, add some old towels to reduce noise levels.

Step 4: Start the washing machine

Simply select the regular wash setting to clean the shoes. If there is an option for spin, choose the slowest spin speed.

Step 5: Air dry

After washing the shoes, take them out and let them air dry. It is best to choose a well-ventilated area with moderate sunlight.

Source: An Nhiên – Vietnamnet

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is possible to wash shoes in a washing machine. However, it is important to check the care label on your shoes to ensure they are machine washable. Some shoes may require hand washing or special care.

Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. This will help to prevent any potential damage or shrinkage to your shoes. Also, choose a slow spin speed to avoid any unnecessary wear and tear.

A small amount of mild detergent or soap can be used. Avoid using fabric softener as it may leave a residue on your shoes. It is also recommended to skip the pre-wash cycle to prevent excess soap from being used.

Remove any visible dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth. You can also use a shoe cleaner or a mild detergent and a damp cloth to spot clean any stubborn stains. Ensure that you remove the shoelaces and insoles, and if possible, place the shoes in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them during the wash.

It is best to air-dry your shoes. Place them in a well-ventilated area and stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause discoloration or damage to the shoes.

If your shoes are not machine washable, you can hand wash them gently with a mild detergent and cold water. Soak them for a few minutes and use a soft brush to remove any dirt or stains. Rinse thoroughly and air dry away from direct sunlight.

The frequency of washing depends on how often you wear them and the activities you use them for. Generally, it is recommended to wash your shoes every few months or as needed when they start to look dirty or emit an odor.