How to wash sneakers? What things to watch out for when putting our beloved sneakers in the washing machine? What mistakes not to make?
How wash your sneakers? What things to watch out for when putting our beloved sneackers in the washing machine? What mistakes not to make?
When we decide to wash sneakers, it is necessary to pay attention to some aspects, starting with the type of washing: hand washing is much safer, but less effective in case of persistent dirt when, surely the washing machine becomes the most suitable tool, as long as you have some fundamental precautions.
In particular, here are the most common mistakes that can be made with washing in the washing machine
Index
Don't pay attention to the type of sneaker
There are several types of sneakers, and some are by no means machine washable:
- The leather shoes: they can deform
- The suede shoes: deteriorate
- Shoes that feature decorative elements: they can come off, which would be the lesser evil, but they can also damage the washing machine, damage mechanical elements or obstruct the drainage.
- Shoes with lights: stop working.
- Shoes that have a worn solea: for example if it is slightly unglued, after washing, you can be sure that it will come off completely.
- The light-colored cloth slippers with metal washers: The fabric may be stained with rust
In general, first of all, we recommend that you consult the label that will indicate whether or not you can wash the model.
Do not separate the elements of the shoes
This is not the way to do it. Before washing them, you must prepare your shoes, or more specifically, "take them apart":
- Remove the laces: If you leave your shoes on, the laces may not wash well. It is possible to wash them by hand or put them in the washing machine next to the shoes, but in a special net.
- Remove the insoles (if they are not glued): so that they do not split into layers, it is worth washing them by hand with any detergent.
Do not pay attention to the washing machine
Of course after washing you will get perfectly clean shoes but you could break or damage the washing machine.
And therefore:
- Do not wash more than two pairs of shoes in the same wash.
- Do not select the action of the centrifuge at its maximum revolutions.
- Wash your shoes in a net.
- Eliminate the earth and those small encrusted pebbles from the sole that can easily obstruct the mechanisms of the washing machine.
Choose the right washing program
It is advisable to wash the shoes at a temperature between 30 ° and 40 °. Colder water doesn't get rid of dirt, and water that's too hot just deforms your shoes. Go for a gentle schedule. Some washing machines have the option: shoe washing, and it is also necessary to adjust the spin cycle to the minimum
Use the washing powder
Powder detergent is difficult to remove and can also leave stains. It is best to use liquid detergents. If the shoes were white, you can add a little baking soda.
Leave the shoes to dry in direct heat sources
The best way to dry sneakers would be away from heat sources. Then you can insert newspaper or absorbent paper inside the shoes to prevent them from deforming.
You can only use the dryer when the shoes are almost dry
Do you have other methods to recommend for washing and drying sneakers?
You may also be interested in:
- How to wash sneakers naturally
- 10 good reasons to take off your shoes before entering the house
- Polish the shoes with a banana peel
