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how to wash shoes in the washing machine ?

**How to Wash Your Shoes in the Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide**

Shoes are more than just a part of our outfits; they are our allies in every daily adventure. But, over time, they end up with stains, odor, and dirt. While the conventional method to clean them may be with a simple brush and water, if you’re looking to give them a deep clean or perhaps you’ve got a large number of shoes to take care of, consider using your washing machine. Here’s a simple guide on how to properly wash your shoes, so they look fresh and smell just as good.

### Step 1: Pre-Cleaning and Preparation

Before you start plugging in the machine, perform a little pre-cleaning. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt and use a toothbrush for those stubborn spots. Focus on the soles, especially the rubber, because they’re the dirtiest spots.

**Laces and Insoles:**
Make sure to take out the laces and insoles from your shoes. Laces might tangle in the machine, and insoles can get damaged by the rotating drums and water.

### Step 2: Load the Washing Machine Properly

To prevent damage, it’s important to protect the shoes from tumbling against the walls of the washer and from each other, especially if you’re washing more than one pair at a time. To do this, use a mesh bag or pillowcase. This will not only help in reducing wear and tear on the fabrics but also keep them from getting scuffed and scratched.

### Step 3: Select the Right Washing Machine Settings

When it comes to washing your shoes, the setting you use on your washer isn’t your go-to standard wash. Choose a delicate cycle to avoid damaging the material and structure of the shoes. Set the water temperature to cold to prevent any shrinkage and color bleeding, especially for dark or bright-colored shoes.

### Step 4: Add Detergent Carefully

Use a mild detergent, not a harsh one. Harsh detergents can deteriorate the shoes’ fabric, especially for synthetic materials. Avoid detergents with fabric softeners as they can leave a residue that can make the shoes dirty more quickly and stain them.

### Step 5: Running the Wash Cycle

Since the cleaning power of water and detergent will do most of the work, you can keep the cycle short and effective. You can run a simple wash cycle for about 10-15 minutes, which should be adequate for most stains and odors.

### Step 6: After-Wash Care

After the wash cycle is complete, remove your shoes from the washing machine. Take care in removing the laces from the mesh bag and let everything air dry. Ensure to place the shoes in a location where they can have good air circulation to completely dry out, preventing dampness and potential mold growth inside.

### Additional Tips:

– **Tackle Stains Before Washing:**
Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar for tougher stains on the shoes. Apply the mixture on the stains and let it sit for a while before washing.

– **Avoid Certain Shoes:**
It’s important to check the care label on your shoes to ensure they can stand up to a machine wash. Leather, suede, and high-quality material shoes are best hand-washed to prevent damage.

– **Maintaining Color and Shape:**
Once dry, stuff the shoes with newspapers or clean cloths to help maintain their shape and absorb any remaining moisture. For shoes that might change color, ensure they have been properly rinsed to avoid color bleeding.

### Conclusion

Washing shoes in the washing machine can seem like a daring move, but with the right precautions and care, your shoes will come out clean and refreshed. When in doubt about whether your shoes can be machine washed, always check the care label or turn to hand-washing to be safe. Happy washing!

By following these easy steps, you should have no troubles when it comes time to keep your shoes clean and wear them with pride. Remember, choosing the correct cycle, the right temperature, and ensuring proper drying and storage post-wash play a huge role in ensuring your shoes remain in good condition.