How to Wash Shoes in Dishwasher (Expert Guide)

Each pair of shoes collects dirt, mud, and grime over time, and they eventually start to smell bad. Many people wonder if the dishwasher can handle this job to save time. It sounds strange, but some folks swear by this method for sneakers. However, you need to be careful with heat and soap choices. This guide explains exactly how to clean your footwear safely so you get great results without ruining your favorite pair of shoes.

You should know that dishwashers use very hot water, and that heat can melt glue. Most shoes have rubber parts or fabric held together by glue, so high heat is the enemy. Also, the detergent used in dishwashers is way stronger than regular laundry soap. If you decide to try this, skip the heat dry cycle, and always use a small amount of liquid soap instead of harsh tablets.

Is the Dishwasher Safe for Your Shoes?

Putting shoes in the dishwasher sounds like a quick fix, but it carries risks. You must check the material of your shoes, the age of the glue, and your machine settings.

Material Safety

Leather shoes never belong in a dishwasher, because water ruins the surface. Suede is also very delicate, so keep that away from water too. Canvas sneakers handle water okay, but heavy glue might soften up during the cycle. Always check the label for washing instructions before you put anything inside your machine.

Glue Integrity

Modern shoes often use heat-sensitive glue to hold the sole to the upper part. Dishwashers get much hotter than a standard washing machine, so the glue might loosen. If your shoes look old or worn, the heat will surely cause them to fall apart. Check your shoes for any loose edges first.

Detergent Choice

Dishwasher soap is made to strip grease off plates, which is very harsh on fabrics. You need to use a tiny bit of mild dish soap instead of the pods. Do not use your regular cycle soap, because it will bleach the colors or ruin the texture of the fabric material.

Heat Settings

High heat is bad for your shoes, so always choose the cold wash option. If your machine does not have a cold setting, skip this process entirely. You must turn off the heat dry function as well. Air drying is the only safe way to finish the job after the cycle ends.

Machine Cleanliness

Old food bits in your dishwasher will end up on your shoes, which makes them smell worse. Run a clean cycle with vinegar before you put your shoes inside. This makes sure the inside of the machine is fresh. You do not want dirty water spraying all over your clean sneakers.

Shoe Positioning

Shoes should never touch the heating element at the bottom of the machine. Use the top rack, and place the shoes upside down so water drains out easily. Make sure they do not block the spinning arms. If the spray arm cannot move, your shoes will not get clean at all.

You should always test a small spot first, or just stick to hand washing if you worry about damage. Being careful now saves you from buying a new pair of shoes later.

• Remove all dirt first.
• Take out the laces.
• Wash laces by hand.
• Check for loose glue.
• Use the top rack.
• Avoid the heated cycle.

How to Wash Shoes in Dishwasher Safely

Preparation is the key to success, so spend time getting your shoes ready before they go inside. A little work now keeps your sneakers safe and looking brand new again.

Prep the Shoes

Take the laces out of your shoes before doing anything else. Laces easily get stuck in the drain, which causes a big mess for your pump. Shake off loose dirt, mud, or rocks from the soles, because this gunk clogs your machine filters. Use a soft brush to scrub away dry dirt, making the washing process much easier for the water spray.

Choose the Settings

Most machines have a delicate or economy cycle that uses less heat. Select this setting to protect your shoes from damage. You must ensure the temperature stays low throughout the wash. If your machine allows, pick the shortest cycle time available. This reduces the amount of time your shoes spend soaking in the water, which protects the glue and fabric.

Add Mild Soap

Liquid dish soap is much better than the harsh powder or heavy tablets. Pour a small amount into the dispenser, or just put it directly in the bottom. Do not use too much soap, because it creates too many bubbles. Bubbles can leak out of the machine, which creates a mess on your kitchen floor, so keep the soap amount low.

Load the Rack

Place the shoes on the top rack of the machine. Face the soles toward the top, so water can reach the inside of the fabric. Use a clip to hold them in place if they move around. Do not crowd the machine with other dishes, because you need space for water to move around and rinse the soap away completely.

Run the Cycle

Start the machine once you have everything in place. Watch the first few minutes to make sure no weird sounds occur. If the spray arm hits the shoes, stop the machine immediately and adjust their position. You want the water to circulate freely, rinsing away the soap and dirt without any physical damage or loud banging noises.

Dry the Shoes

Take the shoes out as soon as the cycle finishes. Stuff them with paper towels to help them keep their shape. Do not put them in a dryer, because the heat ruins them. Find a sunny spot near a window, or place them in front of a fan. Air drying takes time, but it keeps the material safe and prevents the glue from melting.

Take your time with the drying process, as wet shoes grow mold if they stay damp for too long. Proper airflow is your best friend when cleaning your favorite footwear this way.

• Use a fan for drying.
• Change paper towels often.
• Keep shoes out of direct high sun.
• Never use a tumble dryer.
• Check for any leftover soap.
• Wait until fully dry before wearing.

Why Do Shoes Sometimes Smell Worse After Washing?

Water trapped inside the fabric causes a bad smell if the shoes do not dry fast enough. Bacteria love damp, dark places, so moisture is the main enemy here. If the shoes stay wet for more than a day, they will likely start to stink. Use a fan or a hairdryer on a cool setting to speed up the drying process.

Deep cleaning is important because soap left in the fibers attracts more dirt later on. You must rinse your shoes very well during the cycle. If you feel any slime on the fabric after the wash, run a rinse cycle again. This ensures no soap residue remains behind to cause skin irritation or nasty, sour smells later.

Also, the machine itself might have a gross filter. If your dishwasher filter is full of old food, that smell transfers to your shoes during the wash. Always clean your filter before you decide to wash your shoes in the machine. A clean machine leads to clean, fresh-smelling sneakers every time you run a cycle.

If the smell stays, you might need a baking soda treatment. Sprinkle some inside the shoes once they are dry, and let it sit overnight. This draws out the remaining moisture and neutralizes odors naturally. You can also use a shoe spray to finish the job and keep things smelling fresh for the next few days.

• Drying speed matters most.
• Clean the filter first.
• Use extra rinse cycles.
• Avoid using too much soap.
• Baking soda helps odors.
• Airflow prevents mold growth.

Can You Wash All Types of Shoes in the Dishwasher?

Leather and suede shoes never go in a dishwasher, as the water causes the material to shrink or crack. These materials need special cleaners and brushes, so keep them away from the dishwasher entirely. You should also avoid washing expensive shoes or designer sneakers in a machine, as the risk of damage is just too high.

Canvas and mesh sneakers are usually okay for the machine. These materials hold up well to water and soap. However, you must look at the soles to see how they are built. If the soles have thick, layered foam that looks fragile, avoid the machine. Heat and pressure from the water jets can cause the foam to separate from the fabric.

Check for any metal eyelets or decorations on the shoes, as these can rust or come loose. Plastic parts are usually safe, but check for cracks before you start. If you see any signs of wear, it is better to wash them by hand instead. You do not want a small tear to become a big hole during the spin cycle.

Ultimately, use your best judgment based on how much you love the shoes. If you can afford to replace them, you might take the risk. If they are your only pair, hand washing is always the safer choice. Most people find that a simple scrub with a brush and warm water is enough for daily dirt.

• Skip leather at all costs.
• Avoid suede and delicate fabrics.
• Check for metal parts.
• Inspect for existing tears.
• Think twice about expensive shoes.
• Hand wash when in doubt.

What Should You Do If the Shoes Get Damaged?

Sometimes things go wrong even when you follow all the rules. If the glue comes loose, you might be able to fix it with a strong shoe glue. Look for a tube at the hardware store that mentions rubber or fabric bonding. Apply a small amount to the loose edge, and press it down firmly for several minutes to get a good seal.

If the fabric looks discolored, you might try a specialized shoe cleaner to refresh the look. Sometimes the dishwasher soap causes fading, which is hard to reverse. You could try using a fabric marker to touch up small spots, or just accept the look as part of the process. Sometimes a rugged look is better than a dirty one.

If the sole cracks, you might need a professional repair shop. They have better tools for fixing shoes than what you have at home. However, it might cost more to repair them than it would to buy a new pair. Compare the cost of a repair shop to the price of a new set of sneakers before you commit.

Learn from the experience if the shoes do not survive the cycle. Next time, try a lower temperature or a different method of cleaning. Most people find that once they know the limit of their machine, they can keep their shoes clean without any major trouble. Just keep a close eye on the shoes during the process.

• Use shoe glue for repairs.
• Apply light pressure for bonds.
• Check local shoe repair shops.
• Accept minor color fading.
• Avoid future machine washes.
• Try hand cleaning next time.

How Can You Prevent Future Dirt Buildup?

Using a water-repellent spray is a great way to keep your shoes clean for longer. These sprays create a barrier that prevents mud and water from soaking into the fabric. You should apply the spray when the shoes are brand new and perfectly clean. Reapply the spray every few months, especially during the rainy or snowy season.

Wiping your shoes down after each wear also helps a lot. Keep a small rag or brush near your door for a quick wipe. This takes only ten seconds, but it stops dirt from settling into the fabric. When dirt does not get deep into the weave, it stays much easier to clean later on.

Rotate your shoes so you never wear the same pair two days in a row. This gives the material time to breathe and stay dry. Shoes that stay damp from sweat grow bacteria and smell bad very quickly. When you give them a rest, they stay fresh and last much longer than if you wear them constantly.

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sun rays fade the colors and weaken the glue over time. A shoe rack or a shelf in your closet works well. Keep them off the floor if you have pets, as they might try to chew on them. A little care goes a long way.

• Apply water-repellent spray.
• Wipe shoes after use.
• Rotate your daily shoes.
• Store in cool areas.
• Avoid direct sun exposure.
• Keep away from pets.

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide helps you clean your sneakers without any trouble. It is always best to be cautious with heat and soap when cleaning your gear. If you feel nervous about the dishwasher, hand washing remains the safest way to go. Just remember to use a soft brush and mild soap for the best results. Take good care of your shoes, and they will surely stay comfortable and fresh for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe to Use a Dishwasher for All Sneakers?

No, it is not safe for all sneakers. Leather, suede, and delicate materials will be ruined by the water and heat. Always check the shoe label before you start.

Can I Use Normal Dishwasher Pods for My Shoes?

You should avoid using pods because they are too strong and might bleach your shoes. A small amount of mild liquid soap is much safer and easier to rinse.

Are High Heat Cycles Okay for Cleaning Shoes?

High heat will melt the glue holding your shoes together. Always use a cold or delicate setting to prevent damage, and never use the heated dry cycle.

Do I Need to Remove the Laces Before Washing?

Yes, you must remove the laces. They can get sucked into the pump or drain of your dishwasher, which causes a mechanical failure and leaves your shoes stuck inside.

Can I Put My Shoes in the Dryer After Washing?

You should never use a tumble dryer for your shoes. The heat will shrink the fabric, warp the soles, and melt the glue. Always air dry your shoes.

Does the Dishwasher Smell Get on the Shoes?

It can if your dishwasher filter is dirty. Always clean the filter of food bits before washing your shoes, or the old food odors will transfer to your sneakers.

Should I Wash Dishes with My Shoes?

You should never wash dishes and shoes at the same time. The dirt and bacteria from the shoe soles will get all over your plates and silverware.

Will Dishwasher Soap Leave a Residue on My Shoes?

It can leave a film if you use too much soap or do not rinse well. Run an extra rinse cycle if you notice any soapy slime on the fabric.