Washing Trainers In Dishwasher - Your Sneaker Cleaning Guide

Are your favorite trainers looking a little worse for wear, perhaps covered in mud from a weekend hike or just feeling a bit, you know, lived-in? You might be standing there, looking at that kitchen appliance, and wondering if it could be the answer to your footwear woes. It's a thought many people have, really, when faced with grimy shoes that need a serious refresh.

The idea of just popping your dirty sneakers into the dishwasher for a quick spin sounds incredibly appealing, doesn't it? It seems like such a simple way to tackle those persistent smells and visible marks. However, there's quite a bit of chatter out there, with some folks swearing by it as a fantastic shortcut, while others, including shoe makers themselves, tend to suggest you steer clear. It's a bit of a mixed bag of opinions, you see.

So, what's the real story behind this cleaning trick? Can you actually trust your beloved trainers to the powerful jets and hot water of your dishwasher, or is it a gamble that might leave you with a pair of shoes you hardly recognize? We're going to talk through all the different sides of this question, giving you a clearer picture of what might happen and what you might want to do instead, just to be on the safe side.

Table of Contents

Is Washing Trainers in Dishwasher a Good Idea?

The thought of using your kitchen appliance for something other than plates and cutlery can feel a little strange, can't it? Yet, the idea of washing trainers in dishwasher has popped up quite a bit as a supposed cleaning hack. Some people find it incredibly helpful, while others warn against it completely. It's really a matter of weighing up the good bits against the potential problems, just to see if it makes sense for your particular pair of shoes.

The Upsides of Washing Trainers in Dishwasher

One of the biggest draws, honestly, is how simple it seems. Instead of scrubbing away at stubborn dirt, you just place your shoes inside, add some cleaning stuff, and press a button. It's very much a "set it and forget it" kind of deal, which can save you a whole lot of time and effort, especially if your trainers are really, really muddy. For folks with a busy schedule, this convenience is a pretty big plus, you know? It's a quick and easy way to get your footwear looking and smelling a bit better, without having to spend ages bent over a sink. Some even say it helps get rid of those less-than-pleasant smells that can build up in well-used shoes, leaving them feeling much fresher. So, for some, the appeal of washing trainers in dishwasher is purely about saving time and hassle.

The Downsides of Washing Trainers in Dishwasher

Now, on the flip side, there are some pretty good reasons why many shoe makers and cleaning pros suggest you avoid this method altogether. The main worry comes from the heat. Dishwashers, as you probably know, use pretty hot water and often a heated drying cycle. This heat can actually be quite bad for the different parts of your trainers. It can weaken the glues that hold the shoe together, making the soles come apart or the fabric separate from the base. That's a real bummer, isn't it? Also, the intense water pressure from the jets can be a bit too much for some materials, potentially changing the way your shoes look or even causing them to lose their shape. Some shoes, especially those with special cushioning or support, might get messed up in a way that affects how they feel when you wear them, which is not what you want from your favorite pair. So, while washing trainers in dishwasher might seem easy, it does carry some risks for the long-term health of your shoes.

What Trainers Can Handle a Dishwasher?

So, if you're still thinking about giving this a try, it's really important to think about what your trainers are made of. Not all shoes are created equal when it comes to standing up to the forceful environment of a dishwasher. Some materials are much more forgiving than others, while some will pretty much guarantee a sad outcome. It's almost like trying to wash a delicate silk scarf with your heavy-duty work clothes; some things just don't mix, right?

Materials That Might Be Okay for Washing Trainers in Dishwasher

If you're going to try washing trainers in dishwasher, you'll generally find that shoes made from really tough stuff like canvas or rubber tend to hold up a bit better. Think about those classic canvas sneakers or even some of your more basic rubber-soled athletic shoes. These materials are usually quite sturdy and less likely to fall apart when exposed to water and a bit of heat. They don't have a lot of delicate bits or glues that are easily affected. Even so, it's still a bit of a gamble, and you might want to consider putting them in a mesh laundry bag, just to keep them from bouncing around too much inside the machine. This can help protect both your shoes and the dishwasher itself from any loose parts, like metal eyelets, that might come off during the wash cycle. It's just a little extra precaution, you know?

Materials to Keep Away from Washing Trainers in Dishwasher

On the other hand, there are definitely some materials that should absolutely not go anywhere near your dishwasher. Leather and suede are big no-nos. The hot water and strong detergents in a dishwasher can dry out leather, making it crack and lose its natural feel. Suede, which is a bit more delicate, can get completely ruined, becoming stiff, discolored, and just generally looking very, very sad. Shoes with special features, like gel inserts, air pockets, or fancy light-up bits, are also probably best kept out. These components can easily get damaged by the heat or water pressure, which would really mess up how your shoes perform and look. So, if your trainers have any of these materials or special technologies, it's probably best to find a different way to clean them, rather than risking washing trainers in dishwasher.

How Do You Actually Wash Trainers in Dishwasher?

Okay, so let's say you've thought it all through, checked your shoe materials, and you've decided you're still going to try washing trainers in dishwasher. There are some steps you can take to try and make it a bit safer, or at least lessen the chance of a disaster. First off, you'll want to get rid of any big chunks of mud or dirt. A quick brush or rinse under the tap can help a lot here. Then, pull out the laces and the insoles. You can wash these by hand or put them in a small mesh bag for a gentle cycle in your washing machine. Next, place your trainers on the top rack of the dishwasher, if you have one. This is usually where the water jets are a bit less forceful. You can even use something like a laundry bag or secure them with a couple of pegs to keep them from tumbling around too much during the wash. Use a very small amount of mild dish soap – avoid those harsh detergents that have strong degreasers or bleach, as they can be too aggressive for shoe materials. Set the dishwasher to a cold or gentle cycle, and whatever you do, make sure the heated dry setting is turned OFF. Air drying is always the way to go for shoes, as heat can cause shrinkage and damage. It's a bit of a process, you see, even for this "easy" method.

What Are Safer Ways to Clean Trainers?

If the thought of putting your shoes in the dishwasher still makes you a little nervous, or if your trainers are made of those more delicate materials, there are definitely safer and often better ways to get them looking fresh again. These methods might take a tiny bit more hands-on time, but they're much less likely to cause any lasting damage to your beloved footwear. It's almost always a good idea to check the label on your shoes first, if you can find it, as manufacturers often have specific care instructions. But generally, these approaches are pretty safe for most types of trainers.

One of the most reliable ways to clean trainers is by hand washing. This gives you a lot more control over the process, which is great for shoes with different textures or areas that need a bit more attention. You'll want to mix a small amount of mild soap – something like a gentle laundry detergent or even dish soap, but just a tiny bit – with lukewarm water in a basin or bucket. Use a soft brush or a cloth to gently scrub away dirt and stains. For tougher spots, an old toothbrush can work wonders, getting into those little crevices. After scrubbing, wipe down the shoes with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Then, let them air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or any heat sources. You can stuff them with paper towels to help them keep their shape and absorb extra moisture, changing the paper every few hours until they're dry. This method is particularly good for leather or suede, though for suede, you might want a specialized cleaner and a suede brush to avoid water marks.

Another popular option for many types of trainers is the washing machine, but with some very specific precautions. This is different from washing trainers in dishwasher, as washing machines are generally gentler. First, remove the laces and insoles, just like with the dishwasher method. Brush off any loose dirt or mud. Place your trainers in a mesh laundry bag. This bag is pretty important, as it helps protect the shoes from getting knocked around too much and also stops any small parts, like those metal eyelets, from coming loose and potentially damaging the inside of your washing machine. Use a cold water cycle, or at most, a cool one. Definitely avoid hot water, as that can shrink your shoes or damage the glues. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent – powder detergents can sometimes leave a residue. Set the machine to a gentle cycle, like a "delicates" or "hand wash" setting, if your machine has one. Once the cycle is done, take your trainers out right away and let them air dry. Again, no tumble dryer! The heat from a dryer is very likely to cause shrinkage or other damage. Stuffing them with paper can help speed up the drying process and keep their shape, you know, just like with hand washing.

For those really smelly trainers, beyond just cleaning the outside, you might want to consider deodorizing them. Once they're clean and dry, you can sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside and let it sit overnight. Baking soda is pretty good at soaking up bad smells. You can also buy shoe deodorizers or even just put a dryer sheet inside each shoe. For persistent mud or really deep stains, especially if your shoes are a bit fancy or expensive, professional cleaning services are always an option. They have special tools and products that can tackle tough jobs without risking damage to your footwear. So, while washing trainers in dishwasher might be tempting, these other methods generally offer a much safer path to clean, fresh-smelling shoes.

When it comes to keeping your trainers in good shape, whether they're for running, walking, or just looking good, knowing the right way to clean them is pretty important. While the idea of washing trainers in dishwasher might seem like a clever shortcut, it really comes with some notable risks for your footwear. Understanding the materials your shoes are made from is key to choosing the best cleaning approach. For many, hand washing with mild soap and lukewarm water, or using a washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle with a mesh bag, will be the safest and most effective ways to refresh their trainers. Always remember to air dry your shoes to protect their shape and materials. By choosing a method that respects your shoes' construction, you can help them stay looking good and feeling comfortable for a longer time.

I wash my family’s dirty trainers in my dishwasher - trolls say it's

I wash my family’s dirty trainers in my dishwasher - trolls say it's

How to Wash Trainers in the Washing Machine: 12 Steps - wikiHow

How to Wash Trainers in the Washing Machine: 12 Steps - wikiHow

Washing white trainers stock photo. Image of clean, white - 111650482

Washing white trainers stock photo. Image of clean, white - 111650482

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