Is It Safe to Wash Shoes in a Washing Machine? A Check by Material

Not every pair of shoes is ruined by a washing machine — but it's not a safe choice for every material either. The risks come from water, detergent, impacts, spin force, and heat during drying.

When Should Shoes Stay Out of the Machine?

Avoid the washing machine for smooth leather, suede, nubuck, shoes with pigmented coatings, shoes with many glued panels, shoes with separating soles, and pairs with easily deformed structures. Water and spin force can discolor the surface, mat down the nap, collapse the shape, or widen already-weak glue lines.

For valuable pairs — or shoes with scuffs, color bleeding, mold, or loose glue — gambling on the washing machine to save time usually narrows your restoration options even further.

If the Manufacturer Allows Machine Washing

Read the label or the model's care instructions first. If machine washing is permitted, you can reduce risk by:

• Removing laces and insoles, and brushing off dry dirt first.
• Using a laundry bag, a cold-water cycle, and low spin.
• Using a small amount of mild detergent as directed; never mix in bleach.
• Skipping the dryer; air-dry naturally in a ventilated spot.
• Checking the shape, stitching, and sole edges once dry.

This is risk reduction, not a guarantee the shoes will come out unchanged.

A Gentler Approach for Most Shoes

For light dirt, dry brushing and spot-cleaning are usually easier to control than soaking the whole pair. Separating the upper, sole, laces, and insoles also lets you choose the right tool for each part.

If you're unsure of the material, take clear photos of the upper, sole, and stained areas for a technician to assess first. Don't reach for stiff brushes or harsh chemicals just to save time.

What Does EXTRIM Check?

EXTRIM examines material condition, shape, stitching, soles, and stains before recommending cleaning. For pairs with loose glue or bleeding color, cleaning and repair may need to be separated into distinct services rather than just another wash.

👉 Send photos of your shoes for treatment advice

Public case note

This article is not linked to a coded before–after case cleared for public release. The impact of washing machines depends on the material, heat, spin force, and the starting condition of each pair.