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the Washing Machine
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your shoes back to their former glory:
Step 1: Prep Your Shoes
- Remove the laces: Always take out the laces before washing your shoes. Laces can get tangled in the machine and may even break, leaving you with a mess to clean up later. If your laces are dirty, you can wash them separately in the machine or hand-wash them with soap and water.
- Clean off excess dirt: Before putting your shoes in the machine, give them a quick wipe down with a cloth or a soft brush to remove any large dirt or debris. This will prevent those particles from spreading around in the wash.
Step 2: Place Shoes in a Protective Bag
Put your shoes inside a pillowcase, laundry bag, or a mesh garment bag. This extra layer of protection helps preserve the shape of your shoes and prevents them from getting too roughed up in the wash.
Step 3: Set the Washing Machine to a Gentle Cycle
- Use cold water for the wash cycle to prevent the material from shrinking or warping. A gentle cycle is ideal because it’s less likely to cause damage while still providing a good clean.
- If your shoes are particularly delicate or have embellishments (such as sequins or beads), opt for the delicate or hand wash cycle to ensure they don’t get damaged.
Step 4: Use Mild Detergent
Add mild detergent to the washing machine. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can harm the materials of your shoes. A small amount of detergent is all you need, as too much soap can cause a residue buildup that might dull the shine of your shoes.
Step 5: Dry the Shoes Properly
Once the wash cycle is complete, carefully remove your shoes from the bag. Never place your shoes in the dryer, as the heat can warp or damage them. Instead, let them air dry by placing them in a well-ventilated area. To help them retain their shape, you can stuff them with newspaper or a towel.
- Leather shoes: If you’re washing leather shoes, it’s crucial to allow them to air dry naturally. You can also apply a leather conditioner after they’re dry to restore their luster.
- Sneakers: For canvas or fabric sneakers, leave them to dry at room temperature, and they’ll be ready to wear again soon.
Bonus Tip: Restore the Shine with a Final Touch
Once your shoes are clean and dry, you can add the final touch to restore their original shine:
- For leather shoes: Rub a small amount of leather conditioner or polish onto the surface of the shoes using a soft cloth. This will bring back the natural shine and help nourish the leather.
- For sneakers or fabric shoes: Apply a fabric protector spray to help protect against stains and keep your shoes looking clean for longer.
When Not to Use the Washing Machine
While the washing machine trick is effective for many types of shoes, some shoes are not suitable for machine washing. These include:
- Delicate leather shoes: Leather that isn’t treated for washing can be damaged by the washing machine.
- Suede shoes: Suede doesn’t do well in water and may become discolored or lose its texture.
- Heels or shoes with intricate embellishments: Shoes with delicate parts or decorations may get ruined in the wash.
Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before washing shoes in the machine, and if you’re in doubt, it’s best to clean them by hand.
Final Thoughts
With this simple washing machine trick, you can breathe new life into your shoes and restore their shine without spending a fortune on professional cleaning services. Whether you’re looking to freshen up your sneakers, boots, or canvas shoes, this method will help keep them looking as good as new.
By following these simple steps and using the right cleaning products, your shoes will look and feel great, and you’ll be ready to step out in style once again!
