There’s something oddly satisfying about slipping into a pair of freshly washed tennis shoes—no grime, no odor, just that “like new” feeling. But if you’ve ever wondered whether you can just toss your sneakers in the washer and hope for the best, the answer is: yes—but only if you do it right.
Over the years, I’ve washed dozens of pairs—my own, my husband’s muddy trail runners, and plenty of my kids’ playground-wrecked shoes. I’ve learned through trial and error what works, what ruins a good pair, and how to safely clean your tennis shoes in the washing machine without shortening their lifespan.
Let’s dive into the full, step-by-step process I’ve used to keep our shoes looking fresh—and lasting longer.
🧐 Are Your Tennis Shoes Machine-Washable?
Before tossing anything in the washer, always check the label inside your shoes. Most modern sneakers—especially those made from canvas, polyester, cotton, or synthetic mesh—can handle a gentle machine wash.
Avoid washing:
- Leather or suede shoes (they’ll get stiff, crack, or lose color)
- Shoes with gel soles or specialty materials (like memory foam insoles)
- Shoes with glued-on decorations (they’ll probably come loose)
If you’re unsure, it’s safer to spot clean.
🧼 Supplies You’ll Need
Here’s what I always grab before getting started:
- Mild liquid detergent
- Old toothbrush or soft scrub brush
- Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
- Old towels (to cushion the load)
- Baking soda (for odor removal)
- White vinegar (optional for deep cleaning)
- Sponge or magic eraser (for rubber soles)
- Paper towels or newspaper (for drying)
👟 Step-by-Step Instructions for Washing Tennis Shoes in a Washing Machine
Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles
Always take out the shoelaces and insoles before washing. They trap dirt, sweat, and bacteria—and they’ll wash better separately.
- Soak the laces in warm water with detergent or toss them into a mesh bag to wash with the shoes.
- Hand wash insoles with mild soap and warm water, using a cloth or sponge. Avoid soaking them; foam insoles can absorb water and take forever to dry.
Tip from me: If your insoles are super smelly, sprinkle on baking soda and leave them overnight before rinsing.
Step 2: Brush Off Dirt and Debris
Before going anywhere near your washing machine, do a dry pre-clean.
- Knock shoes together outside to dislodge dirt and pebbles.
- Use a dry brush or toothbrush to scrub away dried mud and debris.
- Wipe down the soles with a damp cloth to remove loose dirt.
This step saves your washer from a muddy mess and improves washing results.
Step 3: Deodorize (Optional but Recommended)
I always like to deodorize sneakers before washing, especially if they’ve gotten musty.
- Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
- Shake or vacuum it out before moving to the washer.
For extra cleaning power, you can also:
- Spray the inside of shoes lightly with equal parts vinegar and water before the wash.
- Let sit 10 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
Step 4: Use a Mesh Bag or Pillowcase
Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or an old pillowcase tied shut. This prevents the shoes from knocking around loudly or damaging the drum.
Also toss in 2–3 old towels to:
- Protect the shoes
- Reduce noise
- Balance the load
Avoid overloading the washer—just one pair of shoes per wash works best.
Step 5: Choose the Right Cycle and Settings
Set your washing machine to:
- Cold water (hot water may warp or loosen glue)
- Delicate/gentle cycle
- Extra rinse, if available, to remove all soap residue
Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent—powder detergent can leave buildup.
Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners unless your shoes are all-white and bleach-safe.
Step 6: Post-Wash Clean-Up
When the cycle is done:
- Remove the shoes, laces, and mesh bag
- Use a magic eraser or sponge to wipe the rubber soles for a final polish
- Inspect for any lingering stains (re-treat by hand if needed)
Step 7: Air Dry Only—Never Use a Dryer
This is so important. Do NOT put tennis shoes in the dryer.
Heat can:
- Shrink fabric
- Crack glue and soles
- Misshape your shoes permanently
Instead:
- Stuff shoes with paper towels or newspaper to help absorb moisture and retain shape
- Dry them in a well-ventilated area
- Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can cause fading or stiffness
Drying can take 8–24 hours, depending on the material and climate.
💡 Melissa’s Extra Tips (From Lots of Experience)
- Clean regularly, not constantly. Over-washing can reduce a shoe’s lifespan.
- Spot clean between washes with a soft cloth and mild soap to prolong freshness.
- To prevent odor, always dry your shoes fully between wears—and store them in a cool, dry place.
- For white shoes, a gentle mix of baking soda and peroxide on stains works wonders between washes.
✅ Final Thoughts
Washing your tennis shoes in the washing machine can be safe, easy, and incredibly effective—as long as you do it properly. After years of trial and error (and a few sneaker casualties), I’ve found that with cold water, the right prep, and a little air-drying patience, you can keep your shoes looking, smelling, and feeling like new.
It’s saved me money on replacements—and saved many of my family’s favorite pairs from being tossed.
