“Can I just throw these in the washing machine?”
Every sneaker lover has asked this at least once, usually while staring down a pair that’s survived one festival too many.
The real answer: sometimes yes, sometimes absolutely not. It depends on the materials, construction, and age of the shoe. Let’s break it down so you never gamble with your grails.
When Machine Washing Is Safe
A washing machine can work for everyday beaters made from durable fabrics like:
-
Canvas (Converse, Vans)
-
Basic mesh (running or training pairs)
-
Synthetic textiles
These materials don’t mind a gentle bath, and they’re usually stitched rather than glued, which means the structure holds up better.
If the sneakers already live a rugged life and aren’t part of your rotation of prized pieces, a machine wash can be a quick rescue.
But there are rules (more on that in a moment).
When You Should Never Machine Wash Sneakers
Some sneakers simply aren’t built for the spin cycle:
-
Leather (including tumbled or smooth leather)
Machine washing strips oils, cracks the finish, and ages the material fast. -
Suede or nubuck
Water stains, discoloration, and texture damage are almost guaranteed. -
Knit uppers (like Nike Flyknit or adidas Primeknit)
The fabric can stretch, warp or lose shape. -
Any limited-edition, premium, or collectible pair
The risk outweighs the convenience. Even heat from the drying cycle you forget to turn off can break down glue and cause delamination. -
Older sneakers
Age weakens glue and midsoles. One wash can turn them into a retirement case.
If You Machine Wash, Do It Properly
If your sneakers passed the “safe” test, here’s how to wash them without regrets:
1. Prep them
-
Remove laces and insoles.
-
Brush off dirt with a soft brush.
-
Place sneakers in a mesh laundry bag to reduce impact.
2. Choose the right settings
-
Cold water
-
Gentle cycle
-
Low spin
Heat is the enemy of glue and shape.
3. Use the right detergent
A small amount of liquid detergent. Powder can leave residue.
4. Add padding
Throw in a few towels so your shoes don’t drum against the drum.
5. Air dry only
No dryer. No radiator. No Cyprus-summer direct sun.
Stuff sneakers with paper towels to help them keep their shape.
The Better Alternative: Hand Cleaning
For most sneakers, especially anything premium or hyped, hand cleaning is the safest method. A good sneaker cleaner, a soft brush, and a microfiber cloth will preserve shape, materials and value far better than a machine ever can.
Bottom Line
Yes, some sneakers can be washed in a machine — but many shouldn’t.
If they’re canvas, synthetic, or everyday pairs, a gentle wash is fine. If they’re leather, suede, knit, or part of your prized collection, keep them far from the spin cycle.
Your sneakers deserve care that matches their story. And sometimes, that means rolling up your sleeves instead of hitting “Start”.
