Can I wash boots in a washing machine?

Boot cleaning can be challenging, particularly if they become muddy or wet from rain. You may consider putting them in the washing machine, but is that really the best thing to do for your boots? It’s not as simple as you might think to answer that.

Not every kind of boot can survive a spin cycle because they are made of different materials. You can prevent damaging your boots by being aware of their material and using the right cleaning techniques.

This post will discuss how to maintain your shoes in optimal condition and whether or not it makes sense to wash boots in a washing machine.

You can"t put boots in the washing machine

Everyone wants to assign their "home assistant" to take care of a couple’s cleaning in order to simplify their lives. However, not every boot can be cleaned in an automatic washer, even if it features a "Shoes" setting. Boots spin in the drum and can easily fall apart, rendering them unwearable.

The most crucial guideline is to read the boot label’s care instructions.

Usually, a note from the manufacturer detailing shoe care instructions is placed in the box. Everything is dependent upon the materials used to create the product. Felt boots should never be washed in the washing machine since repeated exposure to moisture can cause them to distort. Additionally, fabric or synthetic boots, for instance, are simple to machine clean.

The following items are not appropriate to put in the washing machine:

• boots that are damaged. If you notice several threads that have come out, a seam that is coming apart or a sole that is peeling off, do not risk throwing the item into the machine. First, you need to take the pair for repair, otherwise the defects will become worse;
• shoes made using a special technology, for example, "Gore-tex". After scrolling in the machine, a significant part of the unique properties of the product may be lost;
• boots with a lot of non-removable decorative elements. The decorations may come off, damaging both the surface of the boots and the washing machine;
• leather products. Genuine leather will deteriorate after washing and drying – it will dry out, crack and shrink. In this case, the risk will not be justified at all;
• low-quality shoes. Machine cleaning can end with the sole peeling off. Therefore, if you have doubts about the quality of the item, you should not take risks.

For winter boots, the same general guidelines hold true. A suede or leather pair cannot be washed; it is also preferable to avoid washing felt items. Certain models—like the well-known "dutiks" or shoes from the well-known Kuoma brand—may be fed into the machine provided they are well-stitched.

The admissibility of washing rubber boots in a washing machine is another topic that interests housewives. The majority of these items are well-suited for machine washing. It will also take some time to wash them under the faucet because regular water can easily remove dirt from rubber.

Follow the basic rules

Observe the fundamental guidelines if the manufacturer does not forbid automated washing or if you choose to place the boots in the drum at your own risk. Examine the shoes’ condition first; it’s crucial that they are in good shape. Additional suggestions:

• before loading into the drum, be sure to wash the sole, clean off pieces of dirt, remove stones clogged in the tread;
• take out the laces, remove the insoles, fasten zippers and Velcro;
• wash no more than one pair at a time;
• use special mesh bags for washing. Then the boots will not "fly" around the drum and hit its walls. It is allowed to put each boot in a pillowcase and tie it tightly;
• be sure to throw old trousers or a towel into the washing machine along with the shoes. The item will act as a counterweight;
• use a special “Shoes” mode for cleaning. If such a program is not provided, stop at a delicate or hand wash;
• turn off the automatic spin;
• make sure that the water heating temperature does not exceed 30°C;
• use special gels for washing shoes. It is better to refuse powder, it can leave streaks, destroy the water-repellent layer of the fabric.

By following a few easy guidelines, you can maximize the impact of washing. The boots will appear brand new and will not sustain any damage. Because the insoles are multi-layered and prone to fraying in a machine, they are hand-washed.

Cleaning suede boots

Long-term water exposure is not recommended for natural suede. As such, do not consider washing suede shoes in the washing machine at all. Furthermore, hand cleaning boots composed of this material is a breeze.

Stores sell suede cleaning compounds, which are specialty sprays and foams. Additionally, a brush with a rubberized side and a wire side is available for purchase. Some effective folk remedies are vinegar solutions, steaming, and alcohol-infused water. Sneakers with suede inserts should only be cleaned in a washing machine as a last resort.

Depending on the type and material of the boots, washing them in a washing machine may be a convenient option. While heavy-duty or leather boots may get damaged, canvas or synthetic boots may withstand a gentle cycle. It’s imperative to refer to the care label and take certain measures to prevent destroying your shoes.

If the dirt is concentrated inside

Shoes may start to smell after extended use. This is especially true for non-breathable demi-season boots or warm winter boots, where feet tend to sweat a lot.

One way to combat the unpleasant "odor" is to wash in a machine. If automatic cleaning is not permitted, you can use soapy water and a few drops of essential oil—eucalyptus, lavender, orange, or tea tree—to treat the inner lining. Using the same solution to wash the insoles is also advised.

Using a thin brush, the fur inside winter boots is cleaned. It is necessary to moisten the bristles with a soap solution. It’s crucial to thoroughly dry the boots afterward.

Although it may be convenient to wash boots in a machine, it’s crucial to take into account the material and construction of your boots before doing so. Certain boots might not hold up well in the washing machine and could get damaged, especially those with intricate designs or delicate fabrics.

If you choose to wash your boots in the washing machine, make sure to use cold water, a mild detergent, and a gentle cycle. Another way to keep the boots safe while being washed is to put them in a laundry bag. Always clear the boots of extra dirt or debris in advance to prevent clogging the machine or doing additional harm.

In the end, hand washing is frequently a safer choice, particularly for more expensive or delicate boots. You can prolong their life and keep them looking their best for longer by taking the time to clean them by hand.

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