Washing sneakers in a Beko washing machine

Not every housewife knows that you can wash not only clothes but also shoes in a washing machine. For example, washing sneakers in a Beko washing machine is perfectly fine, but only if you take precautions to prevent them from becoming unusable. These include removing the laces, adding a towel to the drum, and drying them without the appliance. Let's take a closer look at the specifics of washing shoes in an automatic washing machine.

Will sneakers fall apart in the drum?

Unlike clothing, shoes get dirty extremely quickly and easily, even without much effort from the owner. This is why they are so difficult to keep clean and even more difficult to wash, especially when it comes to athletic shoes. Fortunately, your favorite "home assistant" can help with this difficult task if the shoe manufacturer allows washing sneakers. You can tell this from the label on the shoes, or by simply examining the materials used to create the product.

• Clothes made of leather, silk and satin are not suitable for washing, which means this rule also applies to shoes made of these materials.
• If your sneakers are made of synthetic materials, such as those typically used for sneakers and children's shoes, they can be washed in a washing machine. This is because nylon, cotton, and polyester, the materials typically used to make sneakers, are all machine washable.
• PVC and polyurethane products can be machine washed, but it is best to first check the manufacturer's label, which will indicate the recommended washing temperature and the appropriate cycle.

If your shoes are not suitable for washing because they are made of leather, suede, or other animal-based materials, you can treat them with a special chemical cleaner to remove minor stains.

In addition to the material, you should also pay attention to the quality of the product's construction. For example, if the manufacturer used a lot of glue, there's a chance it will simply dissolve in the washing machine over time. However, high-quality shoes from reputable brands typically use a special waterproof gel that can withstand frequent washing in the washing machine.

Even if the shoe label says hand wash only, you can still try washing your shoes in the washing machine. This is safe because new Beko washing machines feature delicate cycles, ensuring the safety of your favorite items and shoes.

Let's study the label

Clearly, washing sneakers in a household appliance requires care and attention. You can't just throw your shoes in the drum and run the cycle—you should first carefully read the manufacturer's care label, usually located under the tongue of the shoe, for care instructions.

If your sneakers don't have a tag, you can find product information on the brand's official website. If your pair of shoes is from a major manufacturer like Puma, Reebok, New Balance, or another, finding information about your model will be easy. If the brand isn't as popular, you'll have to rely on external factors. Carefully inspect the shoes, paying attention to any protruding threads or visible glue. If the sneakers feel fragile, it's best to play it safe and clean them yourself.

Preparing shoes for washing

Don't rush to put your sneakers in the washing machine, even if you've carefully examined the manufacturer's label. First, carefully prepare your shoes for the washing process.

• Remove the laces from the pair and place them next to each other.
• Remove any stuck-on dirt, which is best done with an old toothbrush.
• Remove stubborn stains and dirt by soaking the item in warm water for 10-15 minutes.
• Remove the insoles, which can be soaked overnight with baking soda if they're smelly. In the morning, simply brush off the baking soda, as it will neutralize the odor overnight.
• Place a large towel on the bottom of the drum to cushion your shoes and prevent them from hitting the drum during the cycle. This will protect both the drum and your shoes.
• To prevent sneakers from getting tangled in the towel, they can be placed in special laundry bags.

Follow these simple guidelines to ensure your shoes are always clean and intact after every wash in your "home helper."

Setting up the equipment

At this stage, it's important to fine-tune your Beko washing machine to ensure it doesn't damage anything. This primarily involves choosing a cycle that won't damage your sneakers and will clean them thoroughly. Most washing machines of this brand do not have a separate cycle for shoes, so you need to use one of the gentle programs such as “Delicate 30”, “Synthetics 20” or “Gentle 30”.

Be sure to turn off the spin cycle if it is included in the selected work cycle.

Experts recommend using special laundry cloths when washing shoes. They prevent staining of clothing and shoes in the washing machine, meaning they don't fade or stain each other during the cycle. This allows you to wash colored, white, and black items in one cycle.

Finally, when it comes to household cleaning products, it's recommended to use a special gel for sportswear and footwear to clean sneakers. Unlike powder, the gel dissolves very quickly in water and won't leave streaks.

Getting rid of moisture

Once your sneakers are washed, all that's left to do is dry them properly. Drying sneakers in washing machines and dryers is not recommended, so only natural drying methods are recommended. Avoid placing them outdoors in direct sunlight, near a stove, or near radiators. To speed up drying, you can place the pair outside or take them to a well-ventilated area with low humidity.

To maintain their shape, the sneakers can be filled with regular paper, but unused, without paint or ink. These should be clean sheets, but not newspapers or magazines.

Is it acceptable to use a tumble dryer?

Rarely do sneaker models indicate that they are tumble dryable. If this information is not available, the decision regarding tumble drying should be based on the shoe's material.

In any case, drying your shoes in a washing machine or dryer carries a higher risk, so it's best to let them air dry. Place your sneakers on the balcony or in a well-ventilated area before bed to ensure clean, dry, and, most importantly, intact shoes in the morning.

   

Readers' comments