Generally, no, it is not advisable to put shoes in with a regular load of clothes. While some types of shoes can be cleaned in a washing machine, it's strongly recommended not to combine them with your clothing during a wash cycle.
Why Mixing Shoes and Clothes in the Washer is Not Recommended
Throwing shoes directly into a regular load of clothes can lead to several undesirable outcomes, affecting both your garments and the shoes themselves.
Potential Issues When Washing Shoes with Clothing
- Dirt and Germ Transfer: Shoes, by their nature, pick up significant dirt, mud, bacteria, and debris from outdoor environments. Washing them alongside clothes can transfer this grime and potential pathogens directly onto your garments, making them dirtier rather than cleaner.
- Damage Risk to Clothes: The weight, shape, and harder materials of shoes (soles, eyelets, buckles) can be abrasive or impactful during agitation. This can potentially snag, tear, or damage delicate fabrics and even heavier items in your laundry load.
- Damage Risk to Shoes: Shoes might get damaged if they're knocked around too much with other items, especially if they have intricate designs or are made of sensitive materials.
- Washing Machine Imbalance: Heavy shoes can unbalance the washing machine drum, leading to noisy cycles, excessive vibrations, and potential wear and tear on the appliance over time. This imbalance can also prevent the machine from effectively cleaning either item.
- Ineffective Cleaning for Both: Shoes and clothes have different cleaning requirements. A wash cycle suitable for clothes might not be optimal for shoes, and vice versa, leading to inadequate cleaning for both.
Best Practices for Machine-Washing Shoes (Separately)
If you intend to machine-wash your shoes, it should be done as a separate, dedicated load, following specific steps to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Step-by-Step Guide for Washing Shoes
- Prepare Your Shoes:
- Remove laces and insoles. You can hand-wash these separately.
- Gently knock off any loose dirt, mud, or debris from the shoes. Use a brush or old toothbrush for stubborn spots.
- Protect Your Shoes (and Machine):
- Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag. This helps keep them together, prevents them from tumbling too harshly, and protects the washer's drum from scuffs.
- Add Cushioning:
- To balance the load and cushion the shoes, add a few old towels (not your good bath towels or clothes) to the washer. This helps absorb some impact and reduces noise.
- Use Appropriate Detergent:
- Opt for a small amount of liquid laundry detergent. Avoid powder detergents, which might not dissolve completely or could leave residue.
- Select the Right Cycle:
- Use cold water to prevent colors from running and to protect shoe adhesives from weakening.
- Choose a delicate, gentle, or hand-wash cycle to minimize agitation.
- Air Dry Only:
- Never put shoes in the dryer. High heat can shrink materials, melt adhesives, and damage the shoe's structure.
- Stuff your shoes with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape as they air dry. Place them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat.
Types of Shoes to Avoid Machine Washing
Not all shoes are suitable for machine washing. Certain materials and constructions can be irreversibly damaged by water and agitation.
- Leather and Suede: Water can stain, stiffen, and crack these materials.
- Dress Shoes and Heels: Delicate construction, embellishments, and materials are easily damaged.
- Boots: Especially heavy-duty boots, which can be too large and heavy for a washer.
- Shoes with Embellishments: Beading, sequins, or delicate appliqués can come off or get damaged.
- Very Old or Delicate Shoes: Fragile materials may not withstand the wash cycle.
For these types of shoes, spot cleaning with a damp cloth and appropriate cleaning products is usually the best approach. You can find more specific care instructions from shoe manufacturers or reputable shoe care guides here.
Quick Guide: Shoes with Clothes
| Action | Recommendation | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Wash shoes with clothes | No | High risk of dirt transfer, damage to clothes and machine, and ineffective cleaning. |
| Wash shoes separately | Yes (if suitable) | Use a mesh bag, add old towels for cushioning, select cold water and a delicate cycle, and always air dry. |
For more detailed laundry tips and machine maintenance advice, consult your washing machine's manual or trusted home care resources here.
