Can I put my trainers in a washing machine?

Washing shoes in a washing machine can be an effective way to maintain the appearance and freshness of your favourite pair. However, as with any item you put in your machine, it's important to understand the proper procedure for optimal cleaning and safety. When washing your shoes in your machine, it's perfectly safe if you follow the recommended advice and care labels.

For best results and to avoid damaging other items, we recommend putting your shoes in a separate load when using a washing machine. If you have any concerns about washing specific materials or shoe types, always refer to your washing machine manual and the care label for your shoes.

Depending on the fabric of your shoes, they may be safe to wash in a washing machine. Shoes made with fabrics such as cotton, canvas, polyester, and nylon are generally safe for machine washing, but it's always best to check your care labels and manufacturer's advice before laundering them.

Trainers are typically sturdy and can withstand machine washing, but shoes made from materials such as leather, suede, or rubber may be better washed by hand to avoid damage. If you plan to wash slip-on style clogs in your washing machine, use a cool temperature setting, as high temperatures can cause the material to shrink. Always check with the manufacturer for specific recommendations.

While many people opt to wash their sneakers in the washing machine, it's always best to consult the manufacturer's recommendations first. Sneakers made of canvas can generally withstand a machine wash if done with care, but manufacturers often suggest hand washing for optimal care.

Many sneakers may not require a machine wash and can be effectively cleaned with gentle scrubbing. However, ultimately, it's down to your best judgement. If you want to clean your canvas trainers in a washing machine, be sure to use a cool, delicate wash cycle to minimise any potential damage.

Football boots often get muddy, making washing them in a washing machine a tempting solution. While most advice leans towards hand washing where possible, some brands recommend machine washing.

For example, some manufacturers suggest placing football boots in the washing machine on a cool, delicate wash cycle - also known as a hand wash cycle on our Beko machines. Before washing, it's important to prepare the boots by removing the laces and insoles, clearing away any large soil or grass debris between the studs, and placing them in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag to protect them during the wash.

When considering which shoes to avoid putting in a washing machine, it's important to pay attention to the materials of your footwear. Shoes made of suede or leather, for example, should be handled with care and should not washed in a machine. Instead, suede shoes should be gently brushed with a dry cloth to remove dirt and debris, while leather shoes are best cleaned with a damp cloth to preserve their quality.

It's important to consult the care labels of your shoes for specific instructions, as improper washing can damage the material and alter the appearance of your footwear. Any shoes that do not explicitly state they are machine washable should be cleaned using alternative methods. Following the recommended care instructions will prolong the lifespan of your shoes and maintain their pristine condition for longer periods.

To learn how to wash your trainers safely in the washing machine, refer to your shoe's manufacturer's website or care labels for specific wash instructions. These guidelines will typically outline the appropriate temperature and cycle settings recommended for your shoes. In most instances, selecting a delicate or hand wash cycle is advisable as it minimises agitation, reducing the risk of damage to your footwear.

You will also want to prevent an uneven load in your drum. When washing your trainers, consider adding some old towels to the load to help distribute the weight evenly. This will ensure a balanced wash cycle and reduce the risk of damage to both your shoes and the machine. As always, refer to your machine's manual or consult the manufacturer for specific guidelines on safely cleaning trainers in a washing machine.

Before washing your shoes in a washing machine, you'll need to take a few precautionary steps. Start by removing the laces from each shoe to prevent them from catching on the drum or door during washing. Additionally, consider placing your shoes inside a net bag or an old pillowcase to protect them and prevent damage to the machine.

To maintain a balanced load, wash old towels along with your shoes. If your shoes, especially football boots, are heavily soiled with mud, remove as much excess mud as possible before placing them in the washing machine. This will help to prevent clogging and ensure a more effective wash.

Different types of shoes may require different washing cycles for optimal cleaning results. However, for optimal results, we recommend using our delicate cycle at a cool temperature. This setting ensures efficient and safe cleaning by avoiding overheating the glue in your shoes. The low agitation of the cycle also ensures gentle yet thorough cleaning, whilst minimising disruption to both your shoes and the washing machine drum.

It's important to avoid cycles with excessively high spin speeds or unbalanced loads as these can cause potential problems during the wash. Such issues can lead to uneven cleaning and potential damage to your shoes or the washing machine.

Read our detailed guide to find outmore about common causes of problems with your washing machine and how to solve them.

The best washing machine for your shoes is a front-load freestanding washer.

Front-loaded machines offer gentler cleaning, resulting in better outcomes for your shoes. They also make it easier to fill the machine evenly and monitor your shoes as they wash, ensuring optimal results.

Some recommended machines include our:

• 8kg washing machine if you're only washing laundry every so often and don't find you're overfilling the drum.
• 10kg washing machine for larger laundry loads for families looking for fresh clothing regularly.
• 12kg washing machine if you're consistently overloading your standard drum and need a larger drum to handle your wash load.