You’ve probably wondered if tossing your dirty sneakers or running shoes into the washing machine could harm the appliance. After all, it seems convenient, but does this common practice actually cause damage? In this text, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how washing shoes affects your machine and discover the best ways to keep both your footwear and your washer in top shape.
Understanding Washing Machine Mechanics
How Shoes Affect Different Types of Washing Machines
Washing machines are designed to handle fabric loads, not solid, heavy items like shoes. When shoes enter the mix, their weight and rigidity can disrupt the machine’s normal operations. Shoes can knock against the drum walls unpredictably, potentially causing imbalance and harsh impacts.
Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Machines
Front-loading washers tumble clothes, using gravity in a circular drum. This motion can cause shoes to bang repeatedly against the drum walls, especially heavier pairs like boots.
Top-loading machines often use an agitator that moves clothes through water. Shoes placed here may hit the agitator aggressively or create uneven loads, which stresses the motor and suspension.
Common Parts at Risk When Washing Shoes
The main parts put under stress include:
- Drum and Drum Bearings: Frequent impacts can chip or dent the drum and wear out bearings.
- Suspension System: Shoes’ uneven weight can throw off balancing springs or dampeners.
- Agitator and Paddles: Hard shoes might scrape or crack these components.
- Motor and Electronics: Overworking the motor due to imbalance can shorten its lifespan or cause errors.
Potential Damage Caused by Washing Shoes
Physical Damage to the Drum and Agitator
Repeated impacts from shoes may dent or scratch the drum’s metal surface, affecting not only aesthetics but also the structural integrity. If the agitator is hit hard, its fins can crack or break, leading to less effective cleaning.
Impact on Bearings and Suspension Systems
Drum bearings allow smooth rotation, but heavy, uneven loads like shoes can accelerate wear. Similarly, suspension springs and shock absorbers designed for uniform fabric loads can fatigue or break when coping with the irregular forces shoes impose.
Effect on Washing Machine Motor and Electronics
An unbalanced load from multiple shoes can cause the machine to work harder to maintain drum spin speed. This strain can overheat the motor or trigger error sensors, potentially leading to expensive repairs or premature machine failure.
Factors Influencing the Risk of Damage
Type and Weight of Shoes
Heavy boots or shoes with hard soles pose a greater risk than lightweight sneakers. Shoes with metal parts, like eyelets or studs, can cause more internal damage.
Washing Machine Model and Build Quality
More robust or commercial-grade washing machines tolerate shoe loads better. Front-loaders with advanced sensors and better suspension typically handle uneven loads more efficiently than cheaper top-loaders.
Washing Settings and Load Balancing
Using the right cycle (gentle or delicate) helps minimize the machine’s workload. Failing to balance shoes with other laundry items leads to violent spinning and increased damage potential.
Best Practices for Washing Shoes Safely in a Washing Machine
Preparing Shoes for Washing
Remove laces and insoles to reduce tangling and allow thorough cleaning. Tap out loose dirt before placing them inside.
Using Protective Washing Bags or Covers
Placing shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase cushions impacts, mitigates direct drum contact, and prevents damage to both shoes and machine.
Selecting Appropriate Washing Cycles and Detergents
Choose a gentle cycle with cold water to limit mechanical stress. Use mild detergent to protect shoe materials and the machine’s interior. Avoid heavy-duty cycles which increase wear.
Alternative Cleaning Methods to Avoid Machine Damage
Hand Washing and Spot Cleaning
For many shoes, targeted hand washing works well, gently scrubbing with a brush and soapy water focuses cleaning where needed and sidesteps machine wear.
Using Specialized Shoe Cleaning Devices
There are electric shoe cleaning gadgets and ultrasonic cleaners designed specifically for delicate or expensive footwear. These options protect both your shoes and your washing machine.
When to Avoid Washing Shoes in the Machine Completely
Types of Shoes Unsuitable for Machine Washing
Avoid machine washing leather, suede, high heels, or shoes with glued components. Water and agitation can irreparably damage these materials.
Signs of Washing Machine Damage Due to Shoes
If you notice unusual noises, persistent unbalanced spins, error codes, or visible drum dents after washing shoes, these are red flags. Immediate inspection or service might be necessary to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Washing shoes in your machine isn’t inherently harmful if done carefully, but it carries risks that depend on your shoe type, machine model, and washing methods. By preparing your shoes properly, choosing the right settings, and using protective gear like laundry bags, you can safely refresh many types of sneakers without damaging your appliance. When in doubt, opt for hand cleaning or specialized tools to preserve both your footwear and your washing machine for the long haul.
