Alright, you’ve finally decided: your dirty, stinky runners need some serious TLC. You’re eyeballing that washing machine and asking yourself, can I wash runners in the washing machine? The short answer is yes, you can. But the devil’s in the details—and if you jump in headfirst without prep, you’re asking for ruined shoes or a temperamental washer.
Why Washing Your Runners in the Machine Can Be a Smart Move
Handwashing your running shoes might sound like the safe bet, but let’s be real—it’s a pain. Plus, scrubbing shoes by hand often misses crevices where dirt and germs hide. Tossing them in the machine saves time, gives a deeper clean, and is just plain convenient. But (there’s a big but)—there are right and wrong ways to do it.
How to Wash Runners in the Washing Machine Without Ruining Them
Here’s a bulletproof playbook I swear by. Imagine you’re prepping for a wild night out. Skip any cheap shots. You want your runners going steady for the long haul, right?
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- Remove the laces and insoles. The shoes clean better apart, and the laces get tangling damage without a doubt.
- Gently knock off excess dirt. Give your runners a firm tap outside (preferably over a trash can or the garden). This stops your washer from turning into a mud bath.
- Use a mesh laundry bag. This is your runners’ shield in the wild spin cycle. Without it, harsh tumbles can scratch up or rip your shoes.
- Choose a cold, gentle wash cycle. Hot water can warp glue and materials, while rough cycles are unforgiving. Keeping it cool and calm is the secret handshake for washer-friendly shoes.
- Use a small amount of liquid detergent. Powders can stick inside your shoes, so liquid is the clear winner here.
- Skip the dryer. High heat is killers’ row for runners. Air dry them away from direct sun or heat sources—you want slow and steady.
Got questions about the dirty details? Whirlpool’s guide on how to wash shoes in the washing machine nails the step-by-step. They break down the steps for front load washer cleaning too, so your appliance stays fresh.
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Keep Your Washing Machine Happy While Cleaning Runners
Treat your washing machine like your best mate—it deserves love and care. Over time, all those shoe washes can leave behind grime and funky smells, which is why washer cleaning is an absolute must.
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Spritz a bit of vinegar or use washing machine-specific cleaners monthly. This keeps odor away and parts like seals and drums in top shape. A clean machine means your next load is fresher; and your runners? Cleaner still.
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Check out great tips on maintaining your washing machine, whether you have a top load or front load washer. They cover removing odors and simple upkeep routines that pay off big time.
Washing Machine Maintenance Checklist for Shoe Washers
| Task | Recommended Frequency | Purpose/Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Run cleaning cycle with vinegar or specialized cleaner | Once a month | Removes residue and odors, keeps drum fresh |
| Check and clean rubber door seals | Every 2 weeks | Prevents mold buildup and leaks |
| Inspect and clean detergent dispenser | Monthly | Ensures detergent flows properly, avoids buildup |
| Air dry the drum and door after use | After each wash | Prevents mildew and stinky smells |
| Check hoses and connections | Every 6 months | Prevents leaks and water damage |
Real Talk: When Not to Machine Wash Your Runners
Here’s where you hang a red flag: if your runners have delicate materials like leather, sewed-on decorations, or if the manufacturer specifically says no washing machines, listen. Hand cleaning or spot treatment is the safer bet. Reddit threads like this laundry machines debate show plenty of stories where ignoring this advice ended in sad ruined kicks.
In the end, do you want clean shoes or thumb through shoe repair catalogs? The answer’s obvious.
Quick Bonus Tips & Tricks
- Stuff your runners with paper towels while drying—it speeds up the process and keeps shape.
- Use baking soda inside the shoes before washing to help with odors.
- Wash your shoes with towels for balance—it helps avoid loud banging noises in the drum.
- Try spot cleaning with a soft brush if you’re scared of machines.
One day, I saw my buddy Jake toss his worn-out runners in the washer without prepping. Result? Shoes came out half-detached and his washing machine needed an emergency service call. Don’t be Jake. Prep right, clean smart.
For even finer techniques, check out expert insights on washing and caring for shoes on Quora’s detailed tips. There’s always a trick or two to make the process foolproof.
So next time you ask, can I wash runners in washing machine?—say yes, but now you know how to do it without wrecking your kicks or your trusty machine.
Source: www.electrolux.com.sg
Lonnie Clarke believes that taking care of your washing machine starts with what you put into it. As a former textile quality controller, she understands exactly how different fabrics, water temperatures, and detergents interact with your appliance’s drum. She writes our comprehensive guides on preventing mold, choosing the right cycles, and extending the life of your clothes.