How to machine wash sneakers without damaging them?

Your sneakers have seen too many nights out, and you're wondering if you can machine wash them without turning them into a mop? Good news, it's possible, provided you follow a few essential rules. We'll explain step-by-step how to machine wash sneakers without damaging them, from choosing the program to the final drying. With the right method, your pairs will regain their shine without losing comfort, shape, or color.

Key takeaways in 30 seconds

Program at 30°C maximum, delicate cycle or wool wash

Spin cycle disabled or very low (400 rpm max)

Always use a laundry bag or a pillowcase

Remove laces and insoles before machine washing

Avoid suede, nubuck, and smooth leather as they cannot be machine washed

Can you really machine wash your sneakers?

Yes, but not just any kind and not just any way. Machine washing can be a real time-saver for very dirty canvas or mesh sneakers, provided you take a few precautions. Many brands like Nike officially advise against machine washing, but in practice, it's an effective method if you follow the right program and steps.

The real question before putting shoes in the washing machine is whether the material can handle it. A pair of suede or smooth leather shoes will not survive a washing machine cycle, even a delicate one. For other materials, follow our tips on how to wash your sneakers properly without risk.

Which materials can be machine washed?

Not all sneakers are made for machine washing. Here's a summary table to know which pair of sneakers you can safely put in the washing machine, and which ones deserve hand cleaning.

Canvas and cotton

This is the most tolerant material. Canvas sneakers, such as Converse or Vans, can be machine washed regularly without suffering. Use a 30°C program with a delicate cycle and a gentle spin. This combination provides the best compromise between effective cleaning and material preservation.

Mesh and synthetic materials

Running or tennis sneakers made of mesh also tolerate machine washing very well. They are designed to wick away perspiration, so water is not an issue. Opt for a short cycle and minimal spinning to avoid crushing the internal foam or deforming the sole.

Smooth leather

Smooth leather sneakers, such as Air Force 1 or Stan Smith, should never be machine washed. Water and detergent will crack the material, melt the glue, and detach the soles. For these pairs, opt for hand cleaning with a damp cloth and a specific leather cleaner.

Suede and nubuck

The same goes for suede and nubuck: no machine, ever. These velvety leathers deform, stain, and lose their velvety appearance in a few seconds in a drum. For these fragile materials, we have written a complete guide on how to clean suede sneakers by hand.

Preparing your sneakers before washing

Preparation is half the job. Skipping this step risks ruining your machine and your sneakers at the same time. Here are the right steps to take before starting the program.

Remove laces and insoles

First step: disassemble what can be disassembled. Remove the laces, which will tangle and wear out prematurely, and the insoles, which deform during washing. You can wash them separately in a laundry bag or simply by hand with a brush and lukewarm water.

Brush and pre-treat stains

Before machine washing, dust off the shoe dry with a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush. If you see stubborn stains, rub them with a damp cloth and a little baking soda or Marseille soap. The more thorough the pre-treatment, the fewer surprises you'll have afterwards. You can find suitable materials in our sneaker care products.

The right program for washing sneakers in the machine

This is where everything happens. A wrong program can turn a new pair into deformed shoes. Follow these settings to machine wash a pair of sneakers without risk.

Cycle and temperature

The golden rule: 30°C maximum. Above this, heat softens glues and deforms soles. Choose a delicate cycle, such as wool or fragile textile, to limit drum agitation. Some machines even offer a specific sneaker program, take advantage of it if you have one.

Spin speed

Spinning is the worst enemy of your sneakers. Disable it completely or set it to the minimum speed, ideally between 400 and 600 revolutions per minute. Beyond that, the drum will bang your sneakers against the walls and damage the seams, internal foam, and overall shape.

Laundry bag or pillowcase

Always, without exception. Slip your sneakers into a dedicated laundry bag or, failing that, into a pillowcase closed with a knot. This simple trick protects your shoes from shocks against the drum and limits noise. Also add 2 or 3 towels to the machine to cushion the blows.

Detergent and products

Use a mild detergent, such as delicate laundry detergent or baby detergent. Avoid aggressive detergents, bleach, and fabric softener, which can discolor or soften the material. A tablespoon of baking soda in the detergent dispenser helps to revive white sneakers without damaging the fabric.

How to dry your sneakers after washing?

Drying is as important as washing. A bad method can permanently deform your pairs. The tumble dryer is strictly forbidden: the heat will soften glues, shrink fabrics, and crack soles.

Opt for air drying in a ventilated area, but not in direct sunlight. Stuff the inside with newspaper or dry rags to absorb moisture and maintain the shoe's shape. Allow 24 to 48 hours of drying depending on the material. Avoid radiators and hair dryers, which harden components.

Mistakes to avoid to prevent damaging your sneakers

Here are the classic pitfalls that turn good intentions into disaster:

Putting suede or leather sneakers in the machine: the material never recovers

Washing at over 30°C: heat deforms everything, from glues to soles

Forgetting the laundry bag: your sneakers bang against the drum throughout the cycle

Keeping laces and insoles: they tangle and deform

Using the tumble dryer: heat ruins the components

Washing too often: limit yourself to once every 2 or 3 months to avoid premature wear of the material

Keeping these mistakes in mind will help you avoid finding a new pair turned into a mop when it comes out of the machine.

Models to maintain by hand at The Last Step

Certain iconic pairs simply cannot handle the machine. If you own one of these models, forget the washing machine and opt for manual cleaning:

The Adidas Samba in suede, the terrace icon that requires special care

The Adidas Campus, full suede and therefore strictly hand-washed

The Adidas Gazelle, suede since 1968, never machine washed

The Puma Suede, whose very name indicates it's made of suede

To maintain these iconic models, follow our guide on how to clean suede sneakers, which details the step-by-step method.

FAQ: Washing sneakers in the machine

At what temperature should sneakers be machine washed?

30°C maximum, never more. Above this, heat softens glues, deforms soles, and can discolor seams. A cold cycle is even better for colored or delicate pairs.

Can white sneakers be machine washed?

Yes, provided they are made of canvas, mesh, or synthetic. To boost the white, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the detergent dispenser. Avoid bleach, which yellows the fabric in the long run.

Should sneakers be spun?

No, or at the minimum speed (400 to 600 rpm). Too strong a spin causes your shoes to bang against the drum and damages the structure. Disable it completely if your machine allows it.

How many times can sneakers be machine washed?

No more than once every 2 or 3 months. Machine washing remains a sporadic deep cleaning. For regular maintenance, it is better to clean by hand with a damp cloth and a little mild soap.