Washing trainers in a machine requires proper prep, gentle settings, and careful drying to keep them fresh and intact.
Prepping Trainers for the Washing Machine
Before tossing your trainers into the washing machine, preparation is key to avoid damage and ensure a thorough clean. Start by removing the laces and insoles. Laces can tangle or fray during the wash, while insoles often absorb sweat and odors but might degrade if washed directly. Hand-wash these separately with mild detergent or soak them in warm soapy water for better results.
Next, give your trainers a quick brush to knock off loose dirt and mud. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub off stubborn grime from the soles and uppers. This prevents dirt from circulating inside the machine or settling deeper into fabric during washing.
If your trainers have mud caked on, let it dry first—wet mud can smear and stain other parts of the shoe or clothing in the wash. Once dry, gently scrape off excess dirt before brushing.
Lastly, check your trainers’ material and manufacturer instructions. Some delicate fabrics like suede or leather aren’t suitable for machine washing, while canvas and synthetic materials generally tolerate it well.
Choosing the Right Washing Machine Settings
Selecting appropriate settings on your washing machine makes all the difference between a clean pair of trainers and a ruined one. Opt for a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water—hot water can warp adhesives and shrink fabrics.
Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals since they can discolor or degrade materials. Liquid detergents dissolve better at low temperatures and reduce residue buildup.
Placing trainers inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase cushions them during agitation, preventing scuffs against the drum’s metal surface. This protective barrier also reduces noise caused by banging shoes.
If your machine has an extra rinse option, use it to make sure no detergent remains trapped in shoe fibers—leftover soap can cause stiffness or skin irritation later on.
Recommended Washing Settings Summary
| Setting | Recommended Option | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Type | Delicate/Gentle | Minimizes wear & tear on trainers |
| Water Temperature | Lukewarm/Cold (30°C max) | Avoids shrinking & adhesive damage |
| Detergent Type | Mild Liquid Detergent | No residue & gentle cleaning |
The Washing Process Step-by-Step
Once your trainers are prepped and settings chosen, it’s time to wash. Place your shoes inside a mesh laundry bag alongside some old towels—these help balance the load and reduce banging noises during spin cycles.
Add detergent directly into the dispenser drawer rather than pouring it over shoes to avoid concentrated spots that might discolor fabric.
Start the machine on its gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using fabric softeners as they coat fibers and reduce breathability—a key feature in athletic footwear.
After washing finishes, remove trainers promptly to prevent mildew growth inside damp shoes. Avoid wringing or twisting them; instead, gently press out excess water using towels.
Avoiding Common Mistakes During Machine Washes
- Never put leather or suede trainers in the machine; hand-clean these only.
- Don’t overload the washing machine; overcrowding prevents effective cleaning.
- Skip tumble drying; heat damages glue bonds and deforms shoe shape.
- Avoid harsh detergents or bleach that strip color and weaken materials.
- Don’t neglect drying properly—damp shoes breed bacteria causing odors.
The Best Ways to Dry Trainers After Washing
Drying is just as crucial as washing when caring for your trainers. Air drying is the safest method to preserve shape and materials. Remove insoles if possible; this helps both shoes and insoles dry faster while reducing odor buildup.
Stuff each trainer with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture from inside while maintaining their form. Replace papers every few hours until completely dry.
Place trainers in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators—excessive heat causes fading, cracking, or warping of soles.
If you’re short on time, use a fan directed towards them to speed up drying without heat damage.
Avoid These Drying Pitfalls:
- Tumble dryers: Heat ruins adhesives & shapes.
- Sunning: UV rays fade colors & weaken fabrics.
- Damp storage: Leads to mold & bad smells.
Caring for Different Trainer Materials Post-Wash
Trainers come in various materials—canvas, mesh, synthetic leather, rubber—which all require slightly different care after washing:
Canvas:
Canvas is durable but can lose shape if dried improperly. Always stuff with paper towels when drying to maintain form.
Synthetic Mesh:
Mesh dries quickly but is prone to snagging. Handle gently when brushing dirt off before washing.
Synthetic Leather:
Machine wash only if manufacturer allows; otherwise wipe clean with damp cloths.
Rubber Soles:
Usually sturdy enough for machine wash but avoid high spin speeds that could loosen glue joints.
Knowing what your trainer is made of helps tailor post-wash care for longevity.
Troubleshooting Common Issues After Washing Trainers In Washing Machine
Sometimes things don’t go as planned after you wash trainers in a machine:
Shoe Stiffness:
Excess detergent residue can cause stiffness; re-rinse by hand soaking shoes briefly then air dry.
Banging Noises During Wash:
Add extra towels next time for cushioning; ensure no loose objects remain inside.
Mildew Smell:
Dry thoroughly with newspaper stuffing; sprinkle baking soda inside overnight before airing out.
Shoe Shape Distortion:
Avoid high spin speeds; always stuff shoes immediately after washing.
These fixes help restore comfort without risking further damage.
Key Takeaways: How To Wash Trainers In Washing Machine
➤ Remove laces and insoles before washing to protect them.
➤ Use a gentle cycle with cold water to avoid damage.
➤ Place trainers in a mesh bag to prevent banging.
➤ Use mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
➤ Air dry trainers naturally; avoid direct heat sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to prepare trainers before washing them in a washing machine?
Before washing trainers in a machine, remove the laces and insoles to prevent damage. Hand-wash these separately with mild detergent or soak them in warm soapy water. Brush off loose dirt and let any mud dry before scrubbing it away gently.
What is the best washing machine setting for trainers?
Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or lukewarm water (maximum 30°C) to protect your trainers. Choose a mild liquid detergent to avoid residue and fabric damage. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can discolor or degrade materials.
Can all types of trainers be washed in a washing machine?
Not all trainers are suitable for machine washing. Canvas and synthetic materials usually tolerate it well, but delicate fabrics like suede or leather should be cleaned by hand to prevent damage.
Should trainers be placed inside anything before putting them in the washing machine?
Yes, placing trainers inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase cushions them during the wash cycle. This prevents scuffing against the drum’s metal surface and reduces noise from banging shoes.
How should trainers be dried after washing in a machine?
After washing, avoid direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight that can warp or shrink trainers. Instead, air-dry them at room temperature, stuffing with paper towels to help maintain shape and absorb moisture.
Conclusion – How To Wash Trainers In Washing Machine Properly
Mastering how to wash trainers in washing machine means prepping carefully, choosing gentle settings, protecting materials with bags or towels, then air drying thoroughly afterward. Removing laces and insoles beforehand enhances cleanliness without risking tangles or damage.
Avoid hot water, harsh detergents, tumble drying, and skipping drying steps that lead to odors or warped shapes. Treat different materials according to their needs—canvas versus synthetic versus leather—and always heed manufacturer guidelines where available.
With these practical tips at hand, you’ll keep your favorite pairs looking fresh longer without sacrificing comfort or durability. Next time grime strikes after an outdoor run or muddy day out, you’ll know exactly how to clean those trainers safely using your washing machine—and get back on track fast!