How to wash leather sneakers in a washing machine?

How to wash leather sneakers in a washing machine While cleaning leather shoes is enough to remove dirt, leather sneakers, especially light-colored ones, are more prone to dirt and require a full wash. Stubborn stains can't be removed with a dry method; more effective alternatives are needed. A logical question arises: can leather sneakers be washed in a washing machine? Let's try to give a comprehensive answer.

Is machine washing possible?

Sports shoes are made from almost all materials, from synthetics and blends to textiles and leather. Leather sneakers are less common, more expensive, and offer breathability, practicality, and durability. But there is a drawback - washing them is much more risky.

The manufacturer recommends hand washing, but does not prohibit machine washing. Just be sure not to put the sneakers in the washing machine:

with a no-wash symbol on the label;
poor quality;
with damage;
with glued decor.

If your sneakers are intact and well-made, they can be washed in a washing machine. Just follow the instructions exactly.

How does automatic washing work?

To ensure that washing your sneakers and the machine itself doesn't damage them, remember a few rules. First, don't load more than two pairs into the drum, as overloading will inevitably lead to imbalance, with all the consequences. Here are the remaining tips:

wash during the day, as the washing will be noisy;
prepare the sneakers, remove the insoles and laces, clean off any dirt from the soles;
place the sneakers in a special bag;
use gel products, as powder granules are difficult to wash out of fabric;
avoid using conditioner (it leaves stains on the skin);
turn on the “Sports shoes” mode, or if it is not available, the “Delicate wash” program;
turn off the spin cycle, reduce the temperature to 20-30 degrees.

Leather sneakers are washed on the "Sports shoes" cycle.

It's best to add something to the dryer with your sneakers, such as an old towel or sheet, to reduce the risk of imbalance. Avoid using a machine dryer; instead, dry your sneakers naturally. After washing, be sure to treat your sneakers with a special leather cleaner.

Without using a machine

It's safer to wash sneakers by hand. Simply fill a basin with water, dissolve some detergent in it, lather it up, and then drop the shoes into the soapy solution. Dirty areas are cleaned with a brush, and laces and insoles are washed separately.

Then everything is thoroughly washed and left to dry. Finally, the sneakers are treated with a special leather cream.

Drying Features

Drying is also crucial: improperly dried leather sneakers can become misshapen, damp, and stinky. To prevent this, it's important to approach the process responsibly and follow the instructions strictly. Keep the following points in mind:

the leather should dry naturally, without the use of automatic dryers, heating devices or hair dryers;
After washing, the sneakers are stuffed with white paper, which changes to dry paper when wet;
Do not place sneakers in direct sunlight.

Leather sneakers are dried in a well-ventilated area away from the sun and radiators.

If you follow all the instructions and tips, cleaning your leather shoes will be hassle-free. The main thing is to remember the material's delicate nature and minimize contact with water.