Picture this: you just crushed a sweaty run, dirt smeared across your beloved On Cloud shoes, and your brain screams, “Can you wash On Clouds in the washing machine?” Before you lob them in willy-nilly, let’s cut through the noise and get this straight—yes, but with the right caution and know-how, otherwise, you risk trashing your kicks or your washer.
Why Washing On Cloud Shoes in a Machine Makes Sense (Sometimes)
These running shoes—the ones with those signature bulbous cushioning pods—aren’t your grandmother’s canvas sneakers. They’re performance gear. But they’re also dirt magnets, especially if you’re pounding urban trails or dog-walking through grimy sidewalks. Hand-washing is tedious. The washing machine promises convenience, but it’s a tightrope walk.
According to On’s official advice, you can wash On Cloud shoes either by hand or in a washing machine, but there’s protocol. Skipping that ends badly.
Can You Wash On Clouds in the Washing Machine? Here’s How
Yes, but only if you’re ready to baby them. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
- Remove the Insoles and Laces: Toss soles and laces in a mesh bag separately. Insoles hate the spin cycle chaos.
- Knock Off Excess Dirt: Use a soft brush or cloth to clear caked-on debris first—don’t let the machine do all the work.
- Use a Gentle Cycle on Cold Water: Hot water is a no-go. It warps the shoe’s shape and ruins the foam cushioning.
- Pick a Mild Detergent: Skip bleach or harsh chemicals. Mild detergent protects the materials.
- Balance Your Load: Washing shoes solo can shake your machine badly. Throw in some towels to steady the ride.
- Air Dry Only: Never cram your clouds into the dryer. Stuff them with newspaper and let them dry naturally.
This method aligns with AHS’s expert shoe washing tips. It’s the sweet spot between cleanliness and caution.
Source: www.youtube.com
Cleaning Your Washing Machine After Shoe Duty
Okay, so shoes bring in dirt and smelly surprises. Your washing machine deserves a spa day after that. Plus, washer maintenance prevents lingering odors and mechanical hiccups. Here’s a quick checklist from household pros at Whirlpool:
| Task | Recommended Frequency | Purpose/Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Run an Empty Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar | Monthly | Removes soap scum and kills bacteria causing odors |
| Clean Detergent Dispenser | Every 2 Weeks | Prevents buildup and mold growth |
| Inspect and Clean Washer Drum | Monthly | Keeps drum fresh and odor-free, prevents residue |
| Leave Door Open After Use | After Every Wash | Allows drum to dry, stops mold and mildew |
| Check and Clean Drain Pump Filter | Every 3 Months | Ensures proper drainage, prolongs machine life |
Top Load vs. Front Load Washer Care When Washing Shoes
Front loaders are gentler, but both need care. For top loaders—where agitators can damage your shoes—skip chunky loads. Try the cycle with the lowest agitation setting. Front loaders love the mesh bag method because it cushions the shoes and protects the drum.
Remember, a little maintenance keeps your machine humming and your On Clouds fluffy.
Source: true-fresh.com
Crucial Washing Machine Maintenance Tips
- Keep your washer’s seals dry to avoid funky smells.
- Run a monthly cleaning cycle with washing machine cleaner or plain white vinegar.
- Don’t neglect the lint and detergent trays—they’re grime magnets.
- Balance your loads like a pro; uneven machines die faster.
- Inspect hoses yearly to catch leaks early.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Toss Your Shoes Without Thought
Many folks naively shove running shoes into the wash without prep. That’s a disaster waiting to unfold. Imagine the On Clouds: the pods get distorted, glue loosens, crushing your investment. Plus, your washing machine rocks violently, threatening its bearings. The kicker? You may even develop a stench in your washer from decomposing grime inside.
Source: www.wikihow.com
For a real-world example, a friend running a downtown pizza joint said he accidentally washed his expensive On Clouds with hot water and laundry pods meant for heavy-duty dirt. The shoes looked lumpy and felt like sad dinosaurs. The machine needed a thorough cleaning just to recover from the shock.
Additional Cleaning Resources
Want more? SneakERASERS offers a detailed guide on cleaning On Cloud shoes with special shoe erasers and wipes. It’s a good alternative if you want to avoid machines altogether.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q1: Can I wash On Cloud shoes daily in the washing machine?
No. Frequent machine washing damages foam pods and fabric. Spot clean when possible, machine wash only when truly dirty.
Q2: Will washing my shoes in hot water damage them?
Yes, hot water can warp cushioning and glue.
Q3: Is air drying better than machine drying on On Clouds?
Absolutely. Heat from dryers ruins shape and material.
Q4: Can washing shoes cause washing machine odors?
Yes, especially if dirt and grime build up inside. Routine washer cleaning prevents this.
Q5: What detergent is best to wash On Cloud shoes?
Use a mild, bleach-free detergent formulated for delicates.
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.