Keep reading to discover the best way to wash trainers in a washing machine.

In 2022, consumers in the UK spent approximately £11.4 billion on trainers, making them one of the most popular types of footwear on the market.

For many people, trainers are an investment, which is why cleaning them can seem a daunting task.

Like any footwear, trainers accumulate dirt, mud and unpleasant odours over time, and while you can spend hours handwashing your trainers, using a washing machine can be just as effective in restoring your shoes to peak condition.

Here, we’ll be guiding you through the dos and don’ts of washing trainers and other items in your washing machine.

What can you put in a washing machine?

Before we discuss how you can use your washing machine to clean your trainers, it is important first to understand which items can be placed into your machine.

Most items of clothing, such as T-shirts, pants, underwear and socks, can all go into a washing machine alongside bedding linens, towels and certain shoes.

The key to understanding what can be cleaned using a washing machine is to check the care labels on the individual items. Most washing machines now come equipped with a wide variety of settings that are tailored to the specific requirements of different materials.

Generally, it is advisable different colours (light and dark) are separated, and the same goes for different fabrics too, to prevent any discolouration.

What can’t you put in a washing machine?

There are a number of items that are not suitable to put in a washing machine.

Most people are aware that delicate natural fabrics like silk and wool are best washed by hand to avoid long-term damage. Equally, items of clothing that are embellished with beads, sequins or other smaller sewn-on items are unlikely to withstand a wash cycle.

Other materials, such as leather or items filled with foam or padding, should also not be placed into a washing machine. You will find that the temperatures combined with the agitation from the machine can misshape and warp these items.

If you aren’t sure if an item can be washed using your machine, check the manufacturer's instructions and care label to determine the best cleaning method.

Can you put trainers in a washing machine?

Whether you're a Nike or Adidas fan, putting your prized and often very expensive trainers into a washing machine can seem a risky thing to do.

However, the reality is that it is safe to clean most modern trainers in a washing machine as they are generally fabricated using machine-washable materials.

It is important to consider all of the components of your trainers; for example, shoes with vamps or foxing made with leather or suede might not fare as well in a washing machine.

As mentioned above, you should always check the care instructions your shoe manufacturer provides before deciding whether they are machine washable.

What is the best way to wash trainers in a washing machine?

Now that we've answered the all-important question of whether you can put your trainers in a washing machine, let's delve into the step-by-step process of how to wash them safely.

Preparation

The first step is to remove the laces and insoles from your trainers. These parts of the shoe can either be placed in a mesh bag to be washed alongside your trainers, or washed by hand.

Pre-treat stains

If you’ve noticed any stubborn stains on the surface of your shoes, grab a soft brush or an old toothbrush with a mixture of mild detergent and water to pre-treat and break down grime.

Mesh bag

To ensure your trainers are not damaged in the drum of your washing machine, place them into a mesh laundry bag. This ensures they will be thoroughly cleaned without being damaged by excessive agitation.

Detergent

Choosing the right detergent is vital to ensuring your trainers aren’t damaged during the wash cycle. It is best to use a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics to avoid them being bleached or weakened by harsh chemicals.

Settings

The best setting to ensure a thorough, but safe, wash for trainers is a gentle cycle with cold water. Higher water temperatures can cause some trainer materials to expand or shrink, so a cold wash is the safest option.

Balanced load

To cushion your trainers and reduce the impact of the drum, you can throw a handful of towels into the machine to balance the load.

Air dry

Once the cycle is completed, remove your trainers from the drum immediately to avoid them developing unpleasant smells. Leave them to air dry in a well-ventilated area and stuff newspapers inside each shoe to help keep their shape.

Reassemble

Once your trainers have completely dried, reattach the laces and insoles, and your trainers should look and smell as good as new!

In need of a new washing machine?

Washing machines are not only a convenient and effect way of refreshing your clothes but also your footwear!

With a little care and the right machine setting, your favourite trainers can remain fresh and clean for many years. However, it is essential to have an efficient working machine.

If you are in the market for a new washing machine, why not explore our exceptional range?

Home Feeling supplies high-quality kitchen appliances to customers across the UK, and has a fantastic selection of washing machines suitable for every type of household.

If you have any questions or would like more information, don’t hesitate to contact our team today by emailing support@homefeeling.co.uk or give us a call on 01543 228622.