How to wash sneakers in the washing machine: the step-by-step plan

Sneakers are an essential part of our daily wardrobe. They are comfortable, stylish and perfect for all kinds of activities. But over time they can get quite dirty. Instead of buying new sneakers right away, freshen up your old pair and continue wearing them for a while, as long as they aren't broken. Nice and sustainable! Sneakers can be easily cleaned in the washing machine. That's how you do that:

Step 1 - Prepare your sneakers well for washing

Start by removing the laces and insoles from your sneakers. This ensures that every nook and cranny is thoroughly cleaned. Then brush off surface dirt and mud with a soft brush. This prevents the dirt from spreading in the washing machine. First clean the soles thoroughly with soapy water, a little scouring cleaner and a scouring sponge.

Step 2 - Protect your sneakers (and your washing machine)

Place your sneakers in a laundry bag or an old pillowcase. This protects both the shoes and the washing machine drum. Add a few old towels to the washing machine. These help to keep the shoes in shape during washing and prevent hard blows against the drum.

Step 3 - Choose the right washing program

Use a mild detergent and select a delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine. This program uses cold water and a slower spin speed, which is better for your sneakers. If your washing machine has a special sports or shoe program, that's even better. Make sure the speed does not exceed 800 revolutions per minute to avoid damage.

Step 4 - Dry your sneakers properly

Let your sneakers air dry. Place them in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can change the shape of your shoes and damage materials. If necessary, put wads of newspaper in the shoes to maintain their shape and speed up the drying process.

I always use shoe trees to get the shape of the sneaker back, instead of newspaper wads, which you can order from Bol.com - Shoe trees €12.99

Extra tips for radiant sneakers

• Use a mild detergent without bleach to preserve the colors.
• Do not wash your sneakers in the washing machine too often to prevent wear and tear.
• For white sneakers, you can add a little baking soda to the detergent for extra brightness.

With these simple steps you can make your sneakers fresh and clean in no time. Do you have any tips? Tell us in a comment.

NB!

Not all sneakers last equally well in the washing machine. Different materials can react differently and the sneaker can become ugly as a result. If in doubt, wash them carefully by hand.

Still ready for new sneakers?

Take a look at Sissy-Boy for some nice colorful ones. These are currently the most popular ones. To Sissy-Boy .