No matter what kind of lifestyle you lead, your shoes will inevitably get dirty. However, you shouldn't have to walk around with shoes that look old or worn-out. A simple cleaning will often remove excess dirt and grime, leaving them looking brand new! This article will explain some simple steps for washing your tennis shoes in a washing machine.
Unlace your shoes. You want to wash the laces separately from the actual sneakers.
Clean off any excess mud or dirt that can be brushed off easily.
Use a brush to get the initial surface layers of dirt off.
Take a Q-Tip or pin and use it to get inside the grooves of your sneakers. This will remove any mud or dirt built up inside them.
You can also take a cotton ball and pour rubbing alcohol on it. Go over the surface of your sneakers with it one final time before putting your sneakers in the washer. This should remove most of the obvious dirt and material and will save it from getting in the wash.
Place your shoes and shoe laces in the washer.
Add your favorite scent of detergent.
Set water temperature to cold and start (shoes shouldn't shrink in a washing machine, but this will help to keep the colors from fading).
Take the shoes out and let them air dry in a moderately lighted place. It may take several hours (or in some cases a few days) for them to dry completely. DO NOT put shoes in direct sunlight. It will only fade the colors and shrink your shoes.
Relace and wear those "like new" shoes!
Tips
Stuffing them with paper towels or newspaper will speed up the drying process.
Washing your shoes with towels or blankets will prevent the washer from getting off balance.
Drying your shoes may take a few days, depending on how thick they are.
If it's just the plastic part that's dirty, get an old tooth brush and some baking soda and scrub it down.
You can also scrub your shoes in the sink or bathtub with soap and a brush.
If you are truly uncomfortable with putting your shoes in a washer, you can purchase Sea Glow and clean your shoes this way. Simply apply it to a cotton ball and go over the surface of your shoes with it. However, if too much is applied, it can ruin the coloring of your shoe.
Warnings
Don't put shoes in bright or direct light. This causes your shoes to shrink and can often fade the color.
Check tags from shoes to check for special washing instructions. Some shoes may have special cleaning instructions that if not followed, could damage your shoes.
Sometimes, washing your shoes in a washing machine can damage them. If it is an expensive pair of shoes, you may want to hand wash them or take them to a professional cleaner.
