Sneakers in washing machines – dos and don’ts

Yes, it’s possible – but not for every model and only with the necessary care. Sneakers made from fabrics or synthetic materials can usually handle a spin in the washing machine. However, special care should be taken in the case of leather shoes, wild leather or models with sensitive features such as sequins, rhinestones or stickers. These materials can harm the drum and can also be damaged themselves. For this reason, they should be washed by hand.

Preparation is key. First remove the shoelaces and insoles. Both can be washed separately – the shoelaces in a small laundry bag or simply by hand, and the insoles with just a damp cloth and a little soap. Then remove any large pieces of dirt like soil or pieces of gravel using a brush. To protect the washing machine, the sneakers should then be placed in a laundry bag or in an old pillowcase.

Yes. In addition to common laundry bags, there are also washing bags designed specifically for trainers. They are made of an air-permeable mesh, are typically padded and protect the footwear and drum particularly well. The bag also reduces the loud clattering inside the drum and keeps the sneakers from rubbing against each other. Buying this kind of bag is especially worthwhile for people who regularly wash gym shoes.

A gentle or delicate wash cycle at 30 degrees Celsius is best. Higher temperatures can dissolve the adhesive in the sole and alter the shape of the shoe. It’s important that the appliance is neither too full nor too empty; washing a couple of towels at the same time is ideal. They cushion the loud banging from the shoes in the drum and help spread the load.

Yes, towels act like a kind of cushion. They not only reduce the loud banging in the washing machine, they also prevent the shoes from hitting the wall of the drum. What’s more, they help spread the weight of the load more evenly in the appliance.

Liquid detergent is the best choice. Powder can leave residue behind in the fabric and make the shoes look shabby. Make sure not to use any fabric softener: it can clog the material and impair the breathability of the shoes. Use a mild detergent for delicates to be on the safe side.

A spin cycle is fine, so long as it’s not too fast. 600 revolutions per minute are plenty. This removes excess water from the shoes without damaging them or the appliance. A spin cycle that is too fast can also warp the sneakers.

Definitely not in the tumble dryer! Heat is the archenemy of sports shoes. It can deform the soles and damage glued areas. Sneakers should ideally be dried in the fresh air. To maintain their shape and speed up the process, you can put newspaper inside the sneakers and change it regularly. Avoid direct sunlight as the UV light can bleach the colours. A well-ventilated, shaded place is best.

No, leather shoes don’t belong in the washing machine. They will lose their flexibility and can become cracked and brittle. Leather sneakers should be cleaned with a gentle handwash using a damp cloth and special leather care products.

As seldom as possible, but as often as necessary. Frequent washing can wear the material. Light dirt can usually be removed quickly with a brush or a damp cloth. The washing machine is best suited for particularly dirty footwear – for example, after a festival or time spent outdoors in the rain.

Don’t wash these kinds of shoes. Electronic components cannot handle contact with water. These models should only be cleaned with a damp cloth.

It’s possible to wash sneakers in the washing machine if you follow some basic rules. Check the material, prepare the load, choose the right program, spin gently and leave to dry in the air: this will keep the sneakers fresh without affecting the shape, colour or function. Keep these tips in mind and use a special laundry bag for footwear to extend the lifespan of your favourite sneakers and protect your washing machine.