How to Wash Tennis Shoes in the Dishwasher?
Here’s the short answer: You can wash most tennis shoes in the dishwasher, but it’s not always the best option and requires careful preparation and execution to avoid damage. Use a gentle cycle, no heat, and air dry afterwards.
A Surprising Cleaning Solution: Your Dishwasher?
Washing tennis shoes can be a tedious chore. Many of us recoil at the thought of hand-scrubbing mud and grime from our favorite athletic footwear. Enter the dishwasher, a seemingly unconventional yet surprisingly effective method for cleaning certain types of tennis shoes. While not suitable for all shoes, the dishwasher can offer a quick and convenient cleaning solution under the right circumstances. This guide will walk you through the process, highlight potential risks, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure you get your shoes sparkling clean without damaging them.
Why Consider Dishwashing Your Tennis Shoes?
The appeal of using a dishwasher lies in its convenience and efficiency. It eliminates the need for manual scrubbing, saving you time and effort. Moreover, the consistent water temperature and gentle spraying action can effectively remove dirt and grime from hard-to-reach areas. Here are some potential benefits:
- Convenience: Simply load, set, and forget (almost!).
- Thorough Cleaning: Reaches nooks and crannies.
- Time Savings: Frees you up for other tasks.
- Cost-Effective: Utilizes an existing appliance.
Assessing Shoe Suitability: Which Shoes Can Handle the Dishwasher?
Before tossing your tennis shoes into the dishwasher, it’s crucial to assess their material composition and construction. Not all shoes are created equal, and some are simply not dishwasher-friendly.
- Suitable Materials: Canvas, nylon, and rubber are generally safe.
- Unsuitable Materials: Leather, suede, and shoes with delicate embellishments (beads, sequins) should never be washed in a dishwasher. Glued components can also become detached.
- Check the Manufacturer’s Label: Look for cleaning instructions, though dishwashing instructions are unlikely to be there. Use caution even if the tag says ‘machine washable’.
The Dishwashing Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to safely and effectively wash your tennis shoes in the dishwasher:
- Pre-Clean: Remove loose dirt, rocks, and debris with a brush or cloth.
- Remove Laces and Insoles: Wash them separately by hand or in a laundry bag in the washing machine.
- Protective Mesh Bag: Place each shoe in a separate mesh laundry bag to prevent them from bouncing around and getting damaged.
- Dishwasher Setup: Place the mesh bags on the top rack of the dishwasher. Ensure they are not obstructing the spray arms.
- Detergent: Use a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) of a mild, liquid dish soap. Avoid using powdered detergents or detergents containing bleach.
- Cycle Selection: Choose a cold water, gentle cycle with no heat drying.
- Run the Cycle: Start the dishwasher and let it run its course.
- Air Dry: Remove the shoes and allow them to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Stuffing them with paper towels can help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Do not put them in the dryer!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Hot Water: Heat can damage the adhesive and warp the shape of your shoes. Always use cold water.
- Using Harsh Detergents: Bleach and strong chemicals can discolor or damage the materials.
- Overloading the Dishwasher: Ensure the shoes have enough space to be thoroughly cleaned.
- Using the Drying Cycle: The heat from the drying cycle can melt glue and distort the shoes.
- Washing Delicate Shoes: As mentioned earlier, certain materials are not suitable for dishwashing.
Table: Dishwasher Suitability by Shoe Material
| Material | Dishwasher Safe? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canvas | Generally Safe | Inspect for glue or embellishments before washing. |
| Nylon | Generally Safe | Check for colorfastness. |
| Rubber | Generally Safe | Can become brittle with repeated washing. |
| Leather | NOT SAFE | Will shrink, crack, and become ruined. |
| Suede | NOT SAFE | Water will permanently damage suede. |
| Mesh | Generally Safe | Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the shoe. |
| Synthetics | Generally Safe | Check manufacturer’s recommendations, although rare to find this info. |
The Air-Drying Process: Ensuring Proper Drying
Air drying is a crucial step to prevent mold growth and maintain the integrity of your shoes.
- Remove Excess Water: Gently squeeze out any excess water from the shoes after washing.
- Stuff with Paper Towels: Pack the shoes with paper towels to absorb moisture and help them retain their shape. Replace the paper towels as they become damp.
- Well-Ventilated Area: Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Drying Time: Allow the shoes to dry completely, which can take up to 24-48 hours.
Detergent Choices: Mild is Key
Selecting the right detergent is vital to protecting your shoes during the washing process.
- Mild Liquid Dish Soap: This is the best option. Ensure it’s free of bleach and strong chemicals.
- Avoid Powdered Detergents: They may not dissolve properly and can leave residue on your shoes.
- Avoid Bleach: Bleach can discolor and damage the materials.
What About Cleaning the Dishwasher Afterwards?
While not strictly necessary after washing shoes, running an empty cycle with vinegar can help remove any lingering odors or residue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the dishwasher clean my shoes as well as handwashing?
The dishwasher can be surprisingly effective at removing dirt and grime, especially from hard-to-reach areas. However, handwashing allows for more targeted cleaning of heavily soiled areas. Dishwashing is more convenient and can be almost as effective for lightly dirty shoes.
Is it safe to wash my white tennis shoes in the dishwasher?
Yes, you can wash white tennis shoes in the dishwasher, but be extra cautious about using bleach-free detergents to prevent yellowing. Consider adding a small amount of white vinegar to the wash cycle for added whitening power.
Can I wash multiple pairs of shoes at once?
While technically possible, it’s generally not recommended. Washing multiple pairs of shoes can overcrowd the dishwasher, preventing thorough cleaning and potentially causing damage to the shoes or the appliance.
What if my shoes still smell after washing them?
If your shoes still have an odor after washing, try soaking them in a solution of water and baking soda for a few hours before air-drying. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber.
How often can I wash my tennis shoes in the dishwasher?
It’s best to limit dishwashing to occasional cleaning due to the potential for wear and tear. Frequent washing, even on a gentle cycle, can shorten the lifespan of your shoes. Only wash when absolutely necessary.
What if my shoes have rubber soles?
Rubber soles are generally safe to wash in the dishwasher. However, repeated exposure to water and detergent can cause the rubber to become brittle over time. Inspect the soles regularly for signs of cracking or damage.
Can I wash shoes with LED lights in the dishwasher?
No, absolutely not. The water and detergent can damage the electrical components of the LED lights, rendering them unusable. Handwash these types of shoes only.
What about shoes with air bubbles or gel cushioning?
These shoes can generally be washed in the dishwasher, but be extra careful to avoid high heat, which could damage the cushioning. Air drying is a must.
My shoes have a strong odor even before washing, will the dishwasher get rid of it?
While the dishwasher can help, heavily soiled or smelly shoes may require pre-treatment. Consider soaking them in a solution of water and baking soda or using a shoe deodorizer spray before washing.
What type of mesh laundry bag is best to use?
Use a heavy-duty mesh laundry bag designed for delicates. These bags will provide adequate protection for your shoes during the wash cycle.
Can I use a dishwasher pod instead of liquid detergent?
It is not recommended to use dishwasher pods, as they often contain harsh chemicals and may not dissolve completely in a cold water cycle, leaving residue on your shoes. Stick to a mild, liquid dish soap.
My shoes shrunk after I washed them in the dishwasher. What did I do wrong?
Shrinkage is most likely due to using hot water or the drying cycle. Always use cold water and air dry your shoes to prevent shrinkage and damage. Unfortunately, if your shoes have shrunk, it is unlikely you will be able to return them to their original size.