Can You Put Steel Toe Boots In The Dryer? Trust The Answer

Rain and snow can ruin many things – your commute, your hair, your social plans. Don’t let them ruin your leather shoes too.

Shoe expert Adam Derrick, designer and founder of To Boot New York, gave us a 3-step plan to save your shoes.

1. Take off the soaked clothes.

Ball up some paper towels and darn your shoes.

See also: The 5 Shoes Every Man Should Own

2. Turn shoes on their side (never soles down) to allow air to circulate freely – this minimizes drying time.

And if you’re thinking of pulling out a hair dryer or putting it near a heater to speed it up, stop right there.

Going au naturale is your best bet. The heat from a dryer can warp the leather and knock your shoe out of shape.

3. Wait for your shoes to dry, then use a natural cedar wood shoe tree to restore the shape.

Also see: The Men’s Health Better Man Project – 2,000+ quick tricks for a healthier life

Soften the outside with a leather cream or lotion.

When suede shoes get soaked, treat them the same way you would leather—simply swap out the leather cream and use a suede brush to buff the dry fabric.

This content is created and maintained by a third party and imported to this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may find more information about this and similar content on piano.io

Ever wanted to clean a dirty pair of shoes but weren’t sure if it’s safe to put them in the dryer? Or can you remember a time when you were carrying your favorite vans and got caught in the rain? If you’re worried about damaging them by drying them in your machine so you can wear them again the next day, you’re not the only one. So I decided to research this topic intensively and came up with this idea.

So is it safe to put shoes in the dryer? The answer is that with the right technique and settings, most shoes can be put in the dryer. However, it is possible to damage your shoes or the machine if you don’t do it right.

Throwing a pair of heavy shoes straight into the dryer can cause internal damage that can cost you a lot of money to repair. And throwing away a pair of expensive shoes that aren’t meant to be dried can permanently ruin the fabric.

How to properly dry your shoes

There are a number of steps and precautions you should take when putting your shoes in the dryer. For example, you shouldn’t really throw your shoes in the dryer and just press a few buttons. Specific settings to prevent shoes from shrinking are the types of details to pay attention to below. Here’s a step-by-step list to ensure your shoes and machine come out alive.

#1 Check the tag on your shoes

There is usually a tag inside your shoe that contains information such as the sizing dimensions, the materials used to make the shoe, where the manufacturer is located, etc. Look for the drying icon, which just looks like a square if you don’t know what it looks like.

If the square has a circle in it, it means you can machine dry. If an X goes through the circle, it means you cannot machine dry. Some labels get more creative and offer the square with the circle inside and a dot inside that circle, meaning it dries at low temperatures.

If there’s no label, don’t stress. I will list materials that you can and cannot dry below.

#2 Don’t forget the basics of regular drying

Just because you’re doing something out of the ordinary by drying shoes in your dryer instead of clothes doesn’t mean you can forget about the basics. You don’t want to go through the whole process to find out the shoes didn’t dry properly or didn’t come out the way you wanted them to.

The basics

If the item is soaked (either from washing or from outside water), drain some of the water before putting it in the dryer.

Remove the lint from the lint filter so the machine doesn’t have to work harder to dry your shoes and improve air quality.

Throw in some fabric softener sheets to keep your shoes smelling nice.

It might seem like a lot of work for shoes, but if you’re going to take the time to machine dry them in the first place, why not do it right?

#3 Fill your machine and shoes with towels

You don’t want your shoes stumbling around in the machine at the risk of warping your shoes or your dryer. Bring large and small towels to fill the dryer to soak up the shoes in case they do get knocked around a bit.

Also, stuffing small rags in your shoes to help dry them and prevent them from shrinking while drying. Small things like scarves or handkerchiefs or socks can be good alternatives for this.

#4 Knot your shoes and hang them on the door

The best way to prevent your shoes from banging on the inside is to tie your shoelaces together so the shoes are held together. Remove the laces from the shoe, except for the last hole. You want to make sure the laces aren’t tied in loops or bow ties like you would normally tie your shoes. This leads to a strange way of drying. Instead, tie them together at the ends of the shoelaces.

Now that they’re tied at the end, drape them in the dryer, leaving part of the lace out of the machine so you can close the door and the knot can keep them from falling into the dryer. It doesn’t matter if you have a top-load dryer or a front-load dryer. As long as the shoes hang, it’s fine.

#5 Set the right settings

You should set the dryer to the air dry setting. If that’s not an option, set your dryer to its lowest setting. You definitely don’t want to overheat or overdry your shoes as they will shrink as they dry.

The machine may have an automatic setting for 60 minutes. But it is recommended that you check your shoes every 15 minutes. You need to keep assessing how dry your shoes are because depending on how powerful your dryer is and how wet the shoes were to start with, this will help determine how long they will take.

Here is a video of how I washed and dried my own shoes.

What types of shoes can you dry?

Drying your shoes in your dryer can make life a lot easier. It’s fast and efficient and doesn’t require too much effort. If your shoe label actually says machine-tested, then think no further. But sometimes we’re not lucky enough to have this, so here are the materials that are generally machine-safe.

canvas

Canvas shoes are generally safe. The rough, cloth-like material most closely resembles tents or sails. Most often they have a rubber sole and metal or plastic for the holes to wrap the laces in and out. Canvas shoes are machine safe and the perfect example of a canvas shoe is Converse. Think slightly about how high tops flex in general. We already don’t have to worry about warping the shoe because of its flexible nature.

Cotton

With sustainability accelerating, check out Reebok’s organic cotton and corn footwear, released in August 2018. Many of our shirts are cotton and will tumble dry easily, so shoes made from the same material are a safe bet. The only thing to watch out for is that cotton does shrink, so darning your shoes is important to prevent this.

Polyester/Nylon

Also, the materials you see on the inside labels of your clothes are nylon and polyester. Many running shoes have these compounds due to their stretchy material. Since nylon is a little less popular than polyester or cotton these days, it’s more commonly used as a blended fabric to improve comfort. If your product contains nylon, a lower temperature is a must as some nylons melt easily. Polyester, on the other hand, dries quickly but can shrink at higher temperatures.

Materials you can’t put in the dryer

How many times have we disregarded the washing instructions and ended up regretting that we weren’t paying more attention? I know for sure I have it. But on the flip side, there were a few times where my stuff was fine, so instead of taking the time to hand wash and dry the valuables, I kept playing and getting it wrong.

What we don’t realize is that the first time we do something, we may not see the theory as to why we shouldn’t care about the item a certain way. Who cares if my shoes shrink a little? I’ll just stretch them out over and over again. Well, I’ve learned over time that we’re starting to see the degradation of materials. So I want to go over the materials that we can and cannot put in the dryer and why.

suede

Caring for your suede shoes dates back to the 1950s and possibly even further. There’s a reason Presley, Perkins and other artists sing about iconic fashion and why ruining it would be a disaster. The truth is you have a pair of shoes that are suede and wet; You’ll want to take care of her right away.

When suede gets wet and dries, it becomes stiff. Drying your shoes outside in freezing temperatures can easily break off and permanently damage your shoes. On the other hand, drying your shoes with heat can also cause the suede to warp and crack. It is recommended to air dry in the shade.

leather

Heat and leather are an absolute no-go. When leather gets hot, it can also warp as materials relax and stretch when heated. When your leather shoes lose their shape and bounce around in your dryer, expect wrinkles, creases, nicks and more. By the time the leather has finally dried, it has already taken on a different shape. In addition, the color of some leather shoes can bleed in extreme temperatures.

gel/foam?

Today, many sneakers improve your comfort by having gel soles or foam. Whether it gives you more cushion or bounce in your step, you lose that comfort when you expose these materials to heat.

Depending on the heat level used, foam soles can easily fall apart in the dryer. The glue holding the sole will start to loosen and so will if you bang your shoe around in the drum.

Gel, on the other hand, is easy to understand that if overheated, it can melt and dry out, just as it has been warped. Of course, this is disadvantageous for running shoes or sneakers, since we depend on certain sole shapes for comfort. Heat can also cause the gel to harden and lose its bounce, making it uncomfortable to walk on.

Sequins/Sparkles/Deli

This is something that can sneak up on us, but makes a lot of sense when we step back and think about it. Simply put, if your shoes have glitter, sequins, lace, or intricate things that can easily come off, they will.

That is what makes the shoe special in the first place. So if you put it in the dryer with powerful air and the potential to bang around a bit, it’s going to ruin them. Consider air drying instead.

While there is a risk of damaging your dryer, you are more likely to run into the problem of ruining your shoes if they are not designed to be machine dried. This defeats the whole purpose of drying your shoes if you can’t wear them the next day. So take care of them by paying attention to these materials.

Possible damage to the machine

First and foremost, shoes without laces should not be put in the dryer, for the sake of both the shoes and your dryer. There are several things that get damaged over time from your shoes bouncing off the walls in your dryer.

That doesn’t mean your machine will fall apart the first time. Hopefully your dryer is a little more durable. But the more blows that go around, the more likely you are to dent the walls, damage the motor, drum belt, etc.

Hopefully you make sure you’ve cleared out your shoes before throwing them in. Especially if you’ve been hiking and things like big clods of earth, rocks and leaves can find their way inside.

Even just a rock slipping into the rim can cause the cylinder to slip off the pulley and burn out when trying to force the machine. And you certainly don’t want a rock cracking the windshield when you have this type of washer.

What’s more likely here is that your shoelaces can get caught, depending on what the edge of your dryer looks like. That’s when your shoes aren’t hung properly as instructed. And another problem is if your sneakers are flying around inside it can dent the drum. Doesn’t that sound like a big deal?

Well, the more the cylinder warps, the more likely it is that it will start banging against other parts of the machine inside, causing major internal damage.

The thing about dryers is that usually if one part doesn’t work, the whole can’t work. And if it works, it probably won’t last long as friction builds up inside and burns out all the parts trying to work. It’s easier to just take the time to get it right than it is to risk an expensive mistake.

Alternatives to machine drying

If you don’t have a time constraint, consider skipping the drum machine for a less risky method, or drying your shoes. Or, if you can’t use a machine due to the materials used to make your shoe, then these are safe and good alternatives to get the job done.

air dry

This time air drying isn’t the setup of your machine, it’s the real deal. Fresh air is good if you don’t want to keep it inside.

As long as you can find a shady spot, avoid the sun, because over time the rays can discolor shoes. Unless it’s below freezing (hello icicles for shoes) or no rain in the forecast, your pair will be out for a day.

In front of a fan

There are two ways to do this. One is quite easy and requires little to no effort. And the second is for the daredevils who need to go the extra mile.

1) It’s almost funny how easy this is. Set up the fan and put the shoes in front of it.

2) Hang the shoes off the fan by making small “S-hooks” out of wire from a hanger.

From here you will:

Cut two 6 inch pieces of wire

Using pliers, bend the wire into an S

Hang the S-hooks with enough space between the compartments to allow the shoes to sit next to each other.

Make sure the hook doesn’t lean too far into the fan to avoid damage.

Place the shoe on the other end of the hook with the inside of the shoe facing the blades in the fan so they dry properly.

Also, be careful not to get the laces into the fan to avoid damaging the shoe or the blade.

rice

Rice is one of the oldest tricks in the books when it comes to drying things. Just like you can dry your soaked phone, you can dry your shoes in rice. Two ways to do this, so choose whichever you prefer.

The first is to fill a large container with a lid full of brown or white rice and simply put your shoes in and secure the lid. The second is to stuff socks with rice and tie the openings shut to keep the rice from spilling out. Remove your pads and pull in the rice socks. This should take a few hours depending on how wet the shoes were.

Thank you for visiting Helpshoe.com

Whether your shoes get soaked from a wet-weather run or a regular cleaning, you should dry them completely before stepping on the treadmill or hitting the trail again.

Wet shoes (and socks) are not only uncomfortably soggy — they’re also more likely to cause blisters and create the perfect environment for mold to grow. But dedicated athletes don’t have time to wait for their athletic shoes to dry.

When you’re ready to get back to your workout, here’s how to dry your shoes faster without damaging them or altering their fit.

Hiking shoes are designed to handle muddy, gravel trails with ease. But that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to toss your dirty companions in the closet and forget about them. Clean them carefully and you’ll enjoy many years together on the trail and reduce the need to replace them prematurely. If you are too tired right after a hike, clean them the next day.

Ignoring cleaning will cause several damage to your boots:

Every time your boots flex, dirt, grit, or sand particles crawl deeper into the leather and fabric and grind away like sandpaper.

Mud wicks moisture from the leather as it dries, making the leather in your boots less pliable and accelerating the aging process.

What you need to clean your hiking boots:

Wondering how to clean work boots? At some point you want to. Eventually, they can become caked with dirt, dust, oil, and other substances until you’re told to stay out, or you do to them!

In addition, occasional cleaning is good for the leather.

However, it’s not that easy to cum on her, which would actually be bad for her. Instead, washing work boots inside and out requires some care to ensure they don’t get damaged. It’s not too heavy, but remember that your work boots are an investment in your comfort and safety. Take care of them and they will take care of you.

How to clean work boots: The outside

The first step in cleaning work boots is the outside of the boot. There are a few different methods.

For light cleaning, a moderately damp brush or cloth wipes away dust and some dirt fairly well. It’s also a good idea to use an old toothbrush for the mace, as it’ll be easier to reach that way.

For extremely dirty boots, however, you need a little more cleaning power. This is where a leather cleaning product comes into play.

Try to remove as much ingrained dirt as possible before applying any leather cleaning product. That will make the process easier.

Leather cleaning products should not be petroleum based as they can affect the leather. Instead, a leather cleaner based on vegetable oil or, even better, saddle soap should be used.

Liquid spray leather cleaners are applied like any cleaning solution. Spray it on and wipe and brush away any dirt or grime until the leather is completely cleaned. For baked-on dirt, you might want to spray it on and let it sit for a minute or two.

Saddle Soap is a mild natural soap blended with leather conditioning ingredients including natural compounds like beeswax or lanolin. It comes in a soft, waxy puck, usually in a shoe polish jar. You use it by wetting a slightly damp (and clean!) brush or cloth and – using circular motions – apply a sudsy lather to the surface of the saddle soap.

Then apply it with the brush or cloth in circular movements. Work the foam into the boot surface and apply more as needed. Wipe off the foam with a clean cloth. Just like a leather cleaner, you may need a few uses to fully clean your boots.

When clean, wipe away any remaining suds or cleaner. The bonus of saddle soap is that it also nourishes and moisturizes the leather and cleans it, so it’s a great boot care product. Allow your work boots to air dry as heating can dry out and crack the leather.

How to clean work boots: insoles and insides

Of course, you should also pay attention to your insoles and footbed, because this step in cleaning work boots will keep them from developing…we say a strong, musty smell.

It’s okay to like Limburg cheese. After all, it’s not okay for your boots to let everyone know what they smell like.

How is that done? Lightly but with care. Granted, this step requires air drying at least overnight, so it’s best to do this before a day off or the weekend for a thorough drying.

The first step is to take out the insoles. Wash them in the washing machine with a mild detergent or – best – by hand with a mild, low pH shampoo. In any case, air dry.

The inside of the boot should be washed with a damp cloth and a low pH shampoo. After the smell has gone, use a cloth dampened with water only and blot away any shampoo residue. Use a dry cloth to wipe away as much moisture as possible.

After the interior has been washed, air dry with a boot tree or other method of hanging your work boots upside down. Again, air drying is critical as applying heat to the inner seams can have adverse effects.

Use deodorant spray or powder with your boots. Daily use takes just seconds and can help reduce the build-up of salts and acids from sweat, dead skin and odor.

After both the interior and interior trim have been washed, it’s time to condition the leather.

Take care of your leather work boots

After the boots have been cleaned it is imperative that leather work boots are treated with a conditioner such as B. Nick’s leather oil or another natural leather conditioner. Again, avoid petroleum products; Stick to natural compounds that help condition and protect leather.

Allow your boots to dry thoroughly before applying.

Work the conditioner into the leather by wiping it down with your conditioning compound. Be sure to wipe off the excess, but wipe it well with it. It’s also a good idea to pat the frame along the edge of the boot with an old toothbrush, as this critical area needs just as much maintenance as the rest of the boot.

Leather oil like Nick’s Leather Oil helps hydrate the leather to prevent drying and cracking and provides a waterproof barrier to keep moisture out. If you want you can also polish it to add shine to your leather work boots. This crucial step also helps protect leather boots from damage from the sun and other elements, keeping your boots in good condition for years to come.

Take care of your boots and they will take care of you.

After a long day at work, it’s not surprising that your work boots don’t smell fresh. But if that smell builds up over time… phew! Here are some simple tips on how to make those smelly work boots a little less smelly.

How to get rid of odors in work boots

Odor in work boots comes from bacteria that accumulate over time from sweaty feet. Work boots create a perfect environment for bacteria and fungus as it is warm, humid and humid. It’s not your fault that your feet sweat, especially since a strong and durable work boot can’t be made out of lightweight, breathable mesh, but there are steps you can take to reduce the problem.

Don’t Wear Cotton Socks Cotton acts like a sponge and absorbs sweat, meaning your feet and boots get very wet and smelly at the end of a long day. Check out our full range of socks and other accessories. Clean Your Feet As your feet sweat in your boots, fungus and bacteria thrive – so you need to wash your feet thoroughly, preferably with antibacterial soap, to help whatever is growing and the odor it’s causing. Alternative Boots Two pairs of boots might not be in the budget, but if you do, this is a great way to let your boots dry thoroughly before putting them back on. If you don’t have that option, make sure you store your boots somewhere they can air out overnight rather than stuffing them in a closet. Use Baking Soda Baking soda seems to have a lot of uses and getting rid of odors is one of them. Either soak your feet in a mixture of water and baking soda every day after work, or sprinkle some on the bottom of your boots before you put them on. It helps reduce bacteria and minimize odors. Use Dryer Sheets Placing dryer sheets in your boots overnight can help absorb odors and moisture so your boots don’t get smelly. You can also wear your boots with a dryer sheet inside if it’s not too uncomfortable. Store your boots properly. Taking off your boots is the first thing you want to do after a long day, but if you don’t store boots in a sheltered place, they will wear out quickly. Don’t let your boots bake in the sun or rain all weekend. Keep them out of the elements and store them upside down on a shoe rack to dry. A shoe dryer is also an option to dry them every day. Sprinkle Talcum Powder in Your Boots Talcum powder or baby powder is used to absorb moisture and reduce friction, which can help wick sweat and protect your boots from friction. Be sure to wipe away any powder residue at the end of the day. Wash your insoles If you wear your work boots with insoles, you can take them out to air them out and wash them regularly in a mixture of water and baking soda to get rid of any bacteria and fungus that may have grown in your boot. If you find that your detergent isn’t getting rid of the odor, add a few tablespoons of vinegar.

Another option to consider is choosing composite toe protection boots instead of steel toe caps if you need toe protection on the job site. Steel is a heat conductor and can make your feet feel warmer, while composites do not conduct heat. There are a ton of simple ways you can stop your work boots from making your home smelly. The most important thing to remember is that your boots need to dry regularly and you need to get rid of bacteria.

How to clean boots from the inside

We have a great guide on how to clean the outside of your boots, but we haven’t shared the best techniques for cleaning the inside of smelly work boots. Nobody’s work boots smell like flowers after a day on the job site, but steel-toed safety boots in particular can be particularly stinky.

The first thing you need to do is take out your insoles and wash them in the washing machine or soak them in a mixture of baking soda and water.

While you wait, you can make a soapy water solution and clean the inside of the boots with a cloth. Make sure you squeeze out excess water before wiping down the inside of your boots to kill bacteria.

When you’re done wiping down the inside of your boots, you should let them dry before putting your insoles back in. You can also put a few tablespoons of baking soda in a sock and leave it in each boot overnight to soak up any excess moisture and odor.

Wondering if there’s a faster way to eliminate odor in work boots? Fill a spray bottle that’s half water, half vinegar and spritz your insoles and the insides of your smelly work boots. Wipe away any remaining moisture and let your boots dry.

I’m all for getting outside and enjoying everything the air has to offer, no matter what comes with it. Sometimes, however, those trips—no matter how small or mundane (like commuting)—put a significant strain on your gear. You walk, jog, work, whatever you do, and then boom – it happens. Your boots are soaked to the bone.

You shouldn’t freak out, nor should you take them off. Set it out until you can start drying, which should be as soon as you get home. Depending on the shoe – what materials it’s made of, what size it is, and what kind of wetness it’s had – it can take a few days for it to fully dry. But there are tools designed to speed up the process; what was once a half-week project is now an afternoon chore. Follow below. We’ll show you the way.

1.

Start by cleaning your boots. We have an entire guide to teach you how. out of luck I know getting wet boots even wetter sounds like a contradictory first step, but leaving dirt, mud, or salt crusts on the outside while they dry won’t make a boot you’ll want to put back on.

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR BOOTS

2.

Now you need to dry them. After all, that’s why you’re here, isn’t it? Untie the laces and remove the insole (if possible).

3.

Assess how wet your boots are. do they drip Drastic heavier than before? can you tinkle the tongue Does the leather feel thin? Does the footbed feel soggy? These are all relatively easy (perhaps weird) questions, but they’re still important to ask.

4.

Now it’s time to dry your boots. But this guide comes with a serious warning: putting your boots super close to a fire or in an oven both seem like a surefire way to dry them, but it’s not. Be sure to avoid direct heat. You might think they’re okay, but melting a part you didn’t know was rubber or warping a part you didn’t know could bend are quick ways, a ruining nice pair of boots. TLDR: Avoid direct heat.

Dan Rafla / Aurora Photos Getty Images

5.

You have a few choices when it comes time to dry them: (A) stuff them with dryer sheets and leave them alone, perhaps near an open window or in front of the air conditioner; (B) place them on a shoe dryer; (C) blot them with a towel; or (D) dredge them into a bucket filled with rice or cat litter. Never tumble dry your boots.

A

Welcome to Option A. This is best saved for flimsy, cheap boots that you don’t get too attached to, or boots that you know for sure will survive if left to their own devices. Fill both to the brim with dryer sheets or newspaper — whatever absorbs moisture. Dryer sheets also give off a laundry-like smell when you stand on them. Leaving them for at least two days will guarantee that they are dry. Shorter in my opinion and you risk missing out on moisture that could likely go undetected at your touch. Sure, they dry while you wear them, but who wants wet socks?

B.

There are hundreds of automatic shoe dryers on Amazon alone. Some look like Ghostbusters props; others that look downright devilish (like a giant octopus preparing to drag you under the water). Go with those who have a lot of reviews; particularly positive. Below are two that I can endorse. The instructions for both are pretty simple: slide the boots onto the shank and turn on the dry cycle. Remove them once they are dry. This is by far the quickest way to dry wet boots.

DX Forced Air Shoe Dryer DryGuy Amazon $89.99 $79.90 (11% off) SHOP NOW The original 2-shoe electric shoe dryer Peet Amazon $49.99 SHOP NOW

C

If your boots are barely wet, then why are you here? (Joke. Please stay.) Patting your boots with a towel works well with barely-wet mesh, canvas, or suede boots, but I wouldn’t go that route with leather. Use an absorbent towel and press it onto the surface, (hopefully) soaking up some water in the process. Repeat until dry.

Chandler Bondurant

D

Whenever your phone breaks, someone will inevitably suggest you throw it in a trash can filled with rice. “It will work,” they promise you. And it usually does! The same treatment can be given to boots that are far less delicate than your new iPhone 13. Completely submerge your boots in a loose material of your choice. Rice or kitty litter work best — both of which a high percentage of people already have on hand. If not, stocking up on more won’t break the bank; and worth saving your boots for. Leave them in the mixture overnight and check the next morning. Repeat as needed.

This content is created and maintained by a third party and imported to this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may find more information about this and similar content on piano.io

If you’ve ever stared at your feet while wearing that particularly favorite (read: dirty) pair of sneakers, you’ve probably wondered if cleaning your shoes could be as easy as popping them in the washing machine. Bearing the brunt of an active lifestyle, shoes can quickly become a home for dirt, bacteria and odors.

If your favorite pair of shoes is getting a little unconventional, is it okay to pop them in the washing machine and let a machine do the dirty work for you? We’re here to teach you how to properly clean your shoes in the washing machine – so you can avoid damaging your shoes, your washing machine and your pride (if you need to call someone to fix your appliance).

What Causes Shoes to Smell?

Before explaining how to clean your shoes in the washing machine, it helps to understand what causes smelly shoes. There are several reasons why your shoes might get a bit unconventional, the first and most obvious being frequent wear. Shoes absorb sweat from your feet and if they are not allowed to dry properly, you will notice an unpleasant smell. Try alternating between multiple pairs so your favorites can air out properly.

Other reasons shoes can smell include not wearing socks (which help absorb sweat), fungi like athlete’s foot, or poor ventilation. If you’ve noticed that your shoes are often unconventional, what they’re made of could be contributing to the stink. Certain materials, like leather, just don’t let your feet breathe and can trap the sweat that causes odor.

The best tips for cleaning shoes in the washing machine

When it comes to cleaning your shoes in the washing machine, it’s not as simple as just tossing them in and letting the machine do its job. As with regular laundry, there are steps you can take to protect your shoes and increase the likelihood of a sparkling clean result. We’ve answered some common questions you might have if you’re nervous about washing your shoes in the machine for the first time.

What kind of shoes can I put in the washing machine?

It might seem like common sense, but certain types of shoes just don’t belong in the washing machine. Their sneakers and tennis shoes are made from fabrics that stand up to the rigors of machine washing. Much like clothing made from these materials, your favorite pair of leather or suede shoes should never be put in the washing machine.

What is the best way to prepare my shoes for machine washing?

A crucial step before you put your shoes in the washing machine is to remove the laces and insoles. To prevent your laces from getting tangled, remove them from your shoes and place them in a separate bag or pillowcase to put in the washing machine. However, your insoles should be hand washed. Take them out and use a solution of warm water and detergent to remove stains and odors. Allow them to air dry completely before returning them to their rightful place.

What setting should I use to wash my shoes?

The key to protecting your items during this process is to be gentle and gentle. Use liquid detergent and a cold water setting to wash your shoes. A cold cycle reduces the risk of color bleeding through the fabric of the shoe and reduces shrinkage or warping. If possible, you should also choose a program with a low spin speed. These are usually the tricky cycles. Using a low spin speed will help keep your washing machine balanced.

What can I do to protect my washing machine (and my shoes) during this process?

Before throwing your shoes in the washing machine, add 4-6 old towels. This keeps the load balanced and helps prevent your shoes from banging around while the bike is running. You may also want to put your sneakers in a mesh laundry bag for added protection.

Do I need to add disinfectant to my wash cycle?

This is a matter of personal preference, but if your shoes are particularly spongy and you’re prone to fungal infections like athlete’s foot, this is a smart move. To avoid nasty bacteria and fungi, try adding a pine oil disinfectant at the beginning of the wash cycle. The sanitizer must be at least 80% pine oil and you must run the washing machine on warm water for it to be effective.

Top Load vs. Front Load: Which is Better for Washing Shoes?

Ah, the age-old battle between top-loaders and front-loaders – which one is best for your shoes?

When it comes to machine washing your shoes, the case for a front loader makes the case. Front-loading washing machines tend to be gentler, which means both your shoes and your appliance endure less of the hardship. Front-loaders also have better control over spin and temperature, allowing you to easily achieve the cold water, low-speed combo mentioned earlier.

Most top loading washing machines clean by shaking, and the clue is in the name – this method is harsher on your clothes. The exception is impeller models that do not have a central column (the agitator). Impellers are rather rare, but softer. That’s not to say you should banish your shoes from your top-loader — if you use your best judgment and stick to a delicate cold-water cycle, you should be fine.

Can shoes go in the dryer?

After washing, it’s time to dry the shoes. But a word of warning – do not put your shoes in the dryer. The high temperatures can damage the glue that holds them together and even cause certain fabrics or materials to shrink. Using the dryer can also permanently warp your shoes, affecting fit and performance.

So how do you dry shoes after washing them? To properly dry your shoes, find a cool and well-ventilated place to air dry them. In general, you should only wash your shoes when you have enough time for them to air dry completely, otherwise you’re just creating a humid environment for bacteria to thrive. If you need something faster, you can put a fan on them. Stuffing a few small towels in your shoes will keep them in shape as they dry.

If in doubt, follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Before you wash your shoes, make sure you check the labels (usually under the tongue of the shoe) or the manufacturer’s website for recommended cleaning steps. Some shoes just aren’t made to go in the washing machine, and throwing them in there can ruin them. Likewise, certain materials require special hand washing methods. By following the suggested steps and following the tips above, your favorite pair will be looking great and smelling fresh for months to come.

What NOT to do when cleaning shoes in the washing machine

While cleaning your shoes in the washing machine may seem deceptively easy, there are some things you must avoid at all costs during the process. This is a brief summary of the top things to avoid.

Never put fabrics like leather or suede in the washing machine.

Do not use warm or hot water programs – this can warp the shoes, damage the fabric and cause colors to run.

Don’t use powdered detergent – these can get caught in your shoes and not dissolve properly.

Do not put your shoes in the washing machine without first removing the laces and insoles. Insoles should be hand washed, while shoelaces should be stored in a separate laundry bag or pillowcase.

Do not put your shoes in the dryer – this can damage the glue and distort the shape.

Washing machine broken? Do you need a professional now? Book a qualified, local repair professional in just a few clicks with American Home Shield ProConnect. Click here to book now. *Available in most major markets. Services vary by market.

Alternative methods of washing your shoes

Do you still feel a bit anxious when you put your shoes in the washing machine? If your shoes aren’t machine washable or you just don’t want to risk damaging them, don’t worry. There are a few simple ways you can hand clean your shoes. Try one of the following methods:

Handwash Cloth Shoes – You can use a solution of one teaspoon of dish soap and two cups of warm water to handwash cloth shoes. Simply scrub the shoes with the solution and a toothbrush, then wipe with a paper towel to dry. You can wash your insoles with the same solution.

Use Vinegar on Leather – If you’re dealing with leather shoes, consider using equal parts cool water and distilled white vinegar. Dip a cloth in the solution, then wipe down your shoes and let them air dry.

Deodorize – There are also simple ways to combat shoe odor. Spray your shoes with baking soda and leave overnight to eliminate odors.

Final thoughts on cleaning your shoes in the washing machine

When it comes down to it, using your washing machine to get your shoes sparkling clean is an easy option — but it’s not without its risks. As long as you pay attention to things like the material of the shoes, the wash cycle used and proper drying methods, there is no reason to fear the convenience of “shoe washing”. If you’re ever in doubt about whether or not to take the plunge, check with the shoe manufacturer directly — and if not, play it safe with a spot clean or hand wash.

Sources:

https://www.bustle.com/articles/140440-7-reasons-your-shoes-can-make-your-feet-stink-how-to-stop-the-smell-from

https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/reviewedcom/2017/03/15/how-to-clean-dirty-sneakers-in-the-washing-machine/99162918/

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-wash-tennis-athletic-shoes-2147002

https://www.sears.com/content/shc/sears/articles/appliances/washers-dryers/how-to-wash-sneakers-at-home.html/

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-your-shoes-4164257

Whether your shoes get soaked from a wet-weather run or a regular cleaning, you should dry them completely before stepping on the treadmill or hitting the trail again.

Wet shoes (and socks) are not only uncomfortably soggy — they’re also more likely to cause blisters and create the perfect environment for mold to grow. But dedicated athletes don’t have time to wait for their athletic shoes to dry.

When you’re ready to get back to your workout, here’s how to dry your shoes faster without damaging them or altering their fit.

Wondering how to clean work boots? At some point you want to. Eventually, they can become caked with dirt, dust, oil, and other substances until you’re told to stay out, or you do to them!

In addition, occasional cleaning is good for the leather.

However, it’s not that easy to cum on her, which would actually be bad for her. Instead, washing work boots inside and out requires some care to ensure they don’t get damaged. It’s not too heavy, but remember that your work boots are an investment in your comfort and safety. Take care of them and they will take care of you.

How to clean work boots: The outside

The first step in cleaning work boots is the outside of the boot. There are a few different methods.

For light cleaning, a moderately damp brush or cloth wipes away dust and some dirt fairly well. It’s also a good idea to use an old toothbrush for the mace, as it’ll be easier to reach that way.

For extremely dirty boots, however, you need a little more cleaning power. This is where a leather cleaning product comes into play.

Try to remove as much ingrained dirt as possible before applying any leather cleaning product. That will make the process easier.

Leather cleaning products should not be petroleum based as they can affect the leather. Instead, a leather cleaner based on vegetable oil or, even better, saddle soap should be used.

Liquid spray leather cleaners are applied like any cleaning solution. Spray it on and wipe and brush away any dirt or grime until the leather is completely cleaned. For baked-on dirt, you might want to spray it on and let it sit for a minute or two.

Saddle Soap is a mild natural soap blended with leather conditioning ingredients including natural compounds like beeswax or lanolin. It comes in a soft, waxy puck, usually in a shoe polish jar. You use it by wetting a slightly damp (and clean!) brush or cloth and – using circular motions – apply a sudsy lather to the surface of the saddle soap.

Then apply it with the brush or cloth in circular movements. Work the foam into the boot surface and apply more as needed. Wipe off the foam with a clean cloth. Just like a leather cleaner, you may need a few uses to fully clean your boots.

When clean, wipe away any remaining suds or cleaner. The bonus of saddle soap is that it also nourishes and moisturizes the leather and cleans it, so it’s a great boot care product. Allow your work boots to air dry as heating can dry out and crack the leather.

How to clean work boots: insoles and insides

Of course, you should also pay attention to your insoles and footbed, because this step in cleaning work boots will keep them from developing…we say a strong, musty smell.

It’s okay to like Limburg cheese. After all, it’s not okay for your boots to let everyone know what they smell like.

How is that done? Lightly but with care. Granted, this step requires air drying at least overnight, so it’s best to do this before a day off or the weekend for a thorough drying.

The first step is to take out the insoles. Wash them in the washing machine with a mild detergent or – best – by hand with a mild, low pH shampoo. In any case, air dry.

The inside of the boot should be washed with a damp cloth and a low pH shampoo. After the smell has gone, use a cloth dampened with water only and blot away any shampoo residue. Use a dry cloth to wipe away as much moisture as possible.

After the interior has been washed, air dry with a boot tree or other method of hanging your work boots upside down. Again, air drying is critical as applying heat to the inner seams can have adverse effects.

Use deodorant spray or powder with your boots. Daily use takes just seconds and can help reduce the build-up of salts and acids from sweat, dead skin and odor.

After both the interior and interior trim have been washed, it’s time to condition the leather.

Take care of your leather work boots

After the boots have been cleaned it is imperative that leather work boots are treated with a conditioner such as B. Nick’s leather oil or another natural leather conditioner. Again, avoid petroleum products; Stick to natural compounds that help condition and protect leather.

Allow your boots to dry thoroughly before applying.

Work the conditioner into the leather by wiping it down with your conditioning compound. Be sure to wipe off the excess, but wipe it well with it. It’s also a good idea to pat the frame along the edge of the boot with an old toothbrush, as this critical area needs just as much maintenance as the rest of the boot.

Leather oil like Nick’s Leather Oil helps hydrate the leather to prevent drying and cracking and provides a waterproof barrier to keep moisture out. If you want you can also polish it to add shine to your leather work boots. This crucial step also helps protect leather boots from damage from the sun and other elements, keeping your boots in good condition for years to come.

Take care of your boots and they will take care of you.

Hiking shoes are designed to handle muddy, gravel trails with ease. But that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to toss your dirty companions in the closet and forget about them. Clean them carefully and you’ll enjoy many years together on the trail and reduce the need to replace them prematurely. If you are too tired right after a hike, clean them the next day.

Ignoring cleaning will cause several damage to your boots:

Every time your boots flex, dirt, grit, or sand particles crawl deeper into the leather and fabric and grind away like sandpaper.

Mud wicks moisture from the leather as it dries, making the leather in your boots less pliable and accelerating the aging process.

What you need to clean your hiking boots:

Keep odors at bay by allowing your boots to air out for a day between wears. Credit: rainyk/iStock/GettyImages

No one’s work boots smell like fresh flowers after a long day, but steel-toe boots and other types of safety boots can be particularly prone to lingering odors because they’re heavy and because metal conducts heat, both of which can add extra sweat to your feet and create a humid environment in them your boots where bacteria can thrive. You may want to deep clean the inside of boots from time to time, but deodorizing after each wear is the best way to keep steel-toed work boots smelling (relatively) fresh.

advertisement

video of the day

How to clean the inside of boots

Cleaning the inside of boots is a somewhat risky endeavor. Many detergents damage or stretch leather boots. If your boots only smell slightly, you might want to skip cleaning altogether and go straight to deodorizing. However, if your work boots are very dirty on the inside, a thorough cleaning may be necessary.

advertisement

You can clean the inside of steel-toed boots the same way you would clean the inside of non-steel-toed boots. The presence of the protective material in the toe of the shoe should not affect how you clean the leather. Start by removing the laces to open the boots as wide as possible. Take out removable insoles and hand scrub with soap and water.

advertisement

Next, mix a little mild, low pH shampoo in a bowl of water and use a soft brush to scrub the soapy water through the inside of each boot. A mild detergent designed for leather shoes can also be used to clean the inside of work boots. Use clean, damp cloths to absorb as much shampoo or detergent residue as possible. This is generally preferable to immersing the work boots in water to rinse off the foam. Let the boots air dry overnight.

advertisement

Deodorizing Steel Toe Boots

Baking soda is the ideal solution for deodorizing smelly shoes as it absorbs moisture and odors and shouldn’t harm the material of your boots. Simply sprinkle some baking soda in your boots in the evening and shake out in the morning. Better yet, fill a pair of old socks or stockings with baking soda and stick one of these reusable deodorants in each boot overnight. Alternatively, buy a couple of deodorant bags that look like bean bags but are generally filled with activated charcoal to wick away moisture and absorb odors. Tuck one or more pouches into each boot as soon as you take them off.

advertisement

Deodorizing sprays are another option. A store-bought deodorant spray is safe to use on your steel-toed work boots, or you can make a DIY deodorant spray using rubbing alcohol or vinegar, water, and essential oils. Use any deodorizing spray sparingly; You don’t want to spray so much that the inside of the boot is saturated with liquid.

advertisement

Finally, control the smell in your boots by investing in cedar shoe trees. They were designed to help boots hold their shape, but more importantly, the cedar serves to absorb and neutralize odors. Store adjustable cedar shoe trees in your boots when you’re not wearing them.

Prevent future odors

There’s no magic trick to preventing odors in your steel-toed boots. The more you wear them, the more your feet sweat and the more smelly they become. However, it can be helpful to change your socks throughout the day. Always choose thin non-cotton work socks and never wear your boots barefoot.

advertisement

Giving your boots time to air out between wears can also help control odor build-up. If you can afford a second pair of steel-toed boots, try rotating them, giving each pair at least a full day to dry.