Washing school shoes in a washing machine, particularly trainers or canvas types, can be done carefully following specific steps.
Washing school shoes in a machine is possible for certain types like canvas or trainers, but it requires preparation and specific machine settings to avoid damage.
Preparing School Shoes for the Wash
Before placing school shoes in the washing machine, some essential preparation is needed:
- Remove Excess Dirt: Brush off any loose mud, dirt, or debris from the shoes. You can use an old toothbrush or a stiff brush for this.
- Remove Laces and Insoles: Take out the shoelaces and insoles. You can wash laces separately by hand or in a small mesh bag in the machine. Insoles are often best cleaned by hand.
- Check Material: Ensure the shoes are suitable for machine washing. This method is generally not recommended for leather, suede, delicate materials, or shoes with embellishments or special finishes. It works best for sturdy fabric trainers or canvas shoes.
Machine Washing Steps
Once prepared, follow these steps to wash the shoes:
- Protect the Shoes and Machine: Wrap the trainers in an old, clean towel or piece of cotton cloth. This helps to protect the shoes from banging against the drum and reduces noise during the wash cycle. Adding a couple of other towels to the load can also help balance the drum.
- Load the Machine: Put the wrapped shoes and any additional towels into the washing machine drum.
- Add Detergent: Add detergent to the appropriate compartment. Use a regular laundry detergent. Avoid using bleach, as it can damage certain materials and colours.
- Select Wash Cycle and Temperature: Choose a delicate or gentle cycle. Use cold or lukewarm water (ideally 30°C or lower). Hot water can cause shrinkage, damage adhesive, or fade colours.
- Adjust Spin Speed: Set the machine at the lowest possible spin to ensure your child's trainers do not wear out from the intensity of the spinning. A low or no-spin setting is crucial to prevent the shoes from being thrown around violently and potentially damaging both the shoes and the machine.
- Start the Cycle: Run the selected cycle.
Drying Machine-Washed Shoes
- Air Dry Only: Never put school shoes in a tumble dryer. The heat can cause significant damage, including shrinkage, warping, and melting of adhesives or plastic parts.
- Stuffing: After washing, stuff the shoes with paper towels or old newspaper. This helps absorb moisture and maintain the shape of the shoes as they dry. Replace the paper periodically as it becomes damp.
- Location: Leave the shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or direct heat sources like radiators. Drying can take 24-48 hours or longer depending on the humidity.
Quick Reference: Washing Shoe Settings
| Setting | Recommendation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Wash Cycle | Delicate/Gentle | Minimizes agitation |
| Water Temperature | Cold to Lukewarm (≤30°C) | Prevents damage, shrinkage, colour fade |
| Spin Speed | Lowest possible/No spin | Protects shoes and machine from impact |
| Drying | Air Dry Only | Prevents heat damage |
By following these steps, you can effectively clean suitable school shoes in a washing machine, keeping them looking tidy for the school term. Remember that this method is best suited for durable fabric or canvas types and always check the shoe's care label if available.
