Is it okay to put shoes in the washing machine? Expert advice on doing it safely

Washing shoes in a washing machine is a method many people have been using for years, and it is effective in cleaning them. However, not all shoes can be washed this way, and machine settings need to be adjusted to prevent damage, home appliance expert Nguyen Minh Tien, said.

Firstly, if you are using a front-loading washing machine with an automatic setting, it is likely that the machine uses hot water by default. This is not ideal for shoes. You should switch to the cold wash setting and absolutely avoid using the drying mode, as it can damage the shoes.

You should only wash sneakers made from durable materials such as canvas, nylon, polyester, or cotton, as these fabrics are strong and resistant to damage from detergent. Avoid washing leather, suede, vinyl, or shoes with delicate rubber or metal soles. Delicate materials like silk or shoes with embroidery or embellishments should not be washed in the machine.

Most shoe insoles should be washed separately, and shoelaces should be removed and placed in a laundry bag to prevent tangling or wrapping around the machine's drum. Keeping the shoes in a laundry bag will also help retain their shape and protect them from damage during the wash. You can also add a cloth towel or old clothes to reduce the impact of the shoes banging against the drum. It is recommended to test wash with a pair or two to ensure safety.

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