Washing Sports Shoes Safely in Drum | Generated by AI

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Question: When using a washing machine (specifically a front-loading drum type, not top-loading), should we remove the insoles from sports shoes, and is it better to add some clothes to wash together with them?

Answer:

Yes, it’s generally a good idea to remove the insoles before washing sports shoes in a front-loading (drum/滚筒) washing machine, and adding some old clothes or towels is usually recommended — but with important caveats for the insoles themselves.

Here’s a clear breakdown based on common advice for safely washing athletic shoes:

1. Removing the insoles — strongly recommended

• Most manufacturers and cleaning guides advise removing removable insoles before putting shoes in the machine.
• Reasons:
  • Insoles (especially foam-based ones common in sports shoes) can become very waterlogged and take 2–4 days (or longer) to fully air-dry, which can lead to mold or bad smells if not dried properly.
  • Machine agitation/tumbling can sometimes damage glued layers, compress foam, or deform shaped insoles over time.
  • They often absorb the most sweat/bacteria → better to clean them separately for thorough odor removal.
• If the insole care label explicitly says “machine washable,” you can put them in — but even then, many people still prefer hand-washing for longevity.

2. How to clean the removed insoles safely

• Best/safest method (most recommended): Hand-wash them.
  • Use lukewarm water + mild detergent (laundry or dish soap).
  • Scrub gently with a soft brush or old toothbrush, focusing on smelly areas (heel/toe).
  • Rinse thoroughly.
  • Pat dry with a towel, then air-dry completely (stuff with newspaper or place in good airflow; avoid direct sun/heat to prevent warping).
  • Optional: Sprinkle baking soda, let sit overnight to deodorize, then shake/vacuum off.
• If you insist on machine-washing insoles (only if labeled safe):
  • Put them in a mesh laundry bag.
  • Use gentle/cold cycle.
  • Air-dry only (never dryer).
  • Still expect longer drying time.

3. Washing the shoes themselves in a front-loader (滚筒机)

• Front-loaders are gentler than top-loaders (no central agitator to bash things around), so they’re better for shoes.
• Standard safe steps:
  • Remove laces (wash separately in a mesh bag or by hand).
  • Remove insoles (as above).
  • Brush off loose dirt from shoes.
  • Put shoes in a mesh laundry bag or old pillowcase (protects drum and shoes).
  • Add some old towels, clothes, or blankets — yes, this is better:
    • Balances the load (shoes bounce around less → less noise/vibration/damage to machine & shoes).
    • Cushions impacts against the drum.
    • Helps absorb dirty water and prevents shoes from slamming.
  • Use cold or warm (not hot) water + gentle/delicate cycle.
  • Mild detergent only (no bleach/fabric softener).
  • Extra rinse if possible.
  • Never use the dryer — air-dry only (crumpled newspaper inside helps absorb moisture and hold shape).

Quick summary — what most people do successfully

• Remove insoles → hand-wash or wipe them separately.
• Wash shoes + laces (in mesh bag) with a few old towels/clothes for balance.
• Air-dry everything 1–2 days.

This approach keeps both your shoes and washing machine in good condition longer, and it’s the most common safe practice for front-loaders.

References:

• Whirlpool - How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine
• 2-10 Blog - How To Wash Shoes & Insoles In A Washing Machine
• AEG Support - Can I wash shoes in the front load washing machine
• Armadillo - How to Wash Shoes in the Machine Without Ruining Anything

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