How To Wash Kids Shoes? Tips and Tricks

Keeping your kids’ shoes clean is not just about maintaining their appearance, but also about ensuring their hygiene and preventing the spread of germs. Children often engage in messy activities and can quickly accumulate dirt and grime in their shoes. Therefore, regular cleaning is essential to keep their shoes in good condition. However, washing children’s shoes can be challenging as they are often made of different materials and need to be handled with care. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to wash your kid’s shoes safely and effectively. In this article Learn How to wash kids shoes?

how to wash kids shoe in washing machine?

Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to clean kids shoes safely in the washing machine:

Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes. Place them in a separate container for washing.
Brush away any dirt or debris on the shoe’s surface using a soft-bristled brush.
Place the shoes inside a pillowcase. Tie the top of the pillowcase to keep the shoes from falling out during the washing cycle.
Add the laces and insoles to the washing machine with the shoes.
Add a small amount of a mild detergent to the machine. Using too much detergent can damage the shoes.
Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. A gentle cycle is important as it reduces the risk of damage to the shoes.
Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the shoes from the washing machine and the pillowcase.
Stuff the shoes with dry paper towels to help them retain their shape and absorb any excess water.
Place the shoes and the paper towels in a well-ventilated area to air-dry completely.
Once the shoes are completely dry, replace the insoles and laces and they are ready to wear again.

types of machine washable kids shoes

Here are some types of machine washable kids’ shoes:

Sneakers: Sneakers are one of the most common types of shoes that are suitable for machine washing. They are made of synthetic materials that are durable and can withstand the washing cycle.

Canvas shoes: Canvas shoes are lightweight and comfortable, and many of them are machine-washable. They are often used as summer shoes and come in a variety of colors and designs.

Rubber shoes: Rubber shoes, such as rain boots or jelly shoes, are waterproof and can be machine-washed. They are ideal for rainy days and are available in many colors and styles.

Sandals: Some types of sandals, such as plastic or rubber sandals, can be machine-washed. However, it is important to check the washing instructions before attempting to wash them in a machine.

Slip-on Shoes: Slip-on shoes made of synthetic materials like plastic or rubber are also machine-washable. Always remove the inner soles before washing them to ensure a complete clean.

Related To: How To Keep Feet Cool In Shoes?

what shoes you can not wash in machine?

Not all shoes are machine-washable as the washing process can damage the material or cause the shoes to lose their shape. Here are some types of shoes that you should not wash in a washing machine:

Leather shoes: Leather shoes should never be machine-washed as the water and detergent can damage the leather and weaken its fibers.

Suede shoes: Suede shoes are delicate and can be easily damaged by washing machines. The washing process can cause the suede to shrink or change texture.

Running shoes: Running shoes are made of different materials, and some of them may be machine-washable. However, it is important to check the label before attempting to wash them in the machine.

Shoes with embellishments: Shoes with embellishments such as beads, sequins, or embroidery should not be machine-washed as the decorations can be easily damaged or fall off during the washing process.

Shoes made of delicate fabrics: Shoes made of delicate fabrics such as silk, velvet, or satin should be hand-washed to avoid damaging the material.

how to wash kids shoes by hand?

Washing kids’ shoes by hand is a gentle and effective way to clean them, especially for delicate shoes that are not safe for machine-washing. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to wash kids’ shoes by hand:

Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes. Place them in a container for washing.
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris on the shoe’s surface.
In a container or basin, mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water.
Dip a clean cloth into the solution, wring it out to remove excess water, and use it to gently wipe the shoes’ surfaces and interiors.
Rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any detergent residue.
Stuff the shoes with dry paper towels to help them retain their shape and absorb any excess water.
Place the shoes and the paper towels in a well-ventilated area to air-dry completely.
Once the shoes are completely dry, replace the insoles and laces, and they are ready to wear again.

Tips and tricks to wash kids shoes?

Sure, here are some tips and tricks to wash kids shoes effectively:

Check the label

Before you start washing your kid’s shoes, check the label for any washing instructions that may be specific to the type of shoe. Some shoes may require special care, such as hand-washing or air-drying.

Remove the laces and insoles

Take out the laces and insoles of the shoes. This will help you to clean them thoroughly and ensure the entire shoe is cleaned.

Brush away the dirt

Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe. Be gentle with the brush to avoid damaging the shoe material.

Place the shoes in a pillowcase

To protect the shoes during the wash cycle, place them in a pillowcase and tie the top with a knot. This will prevent the shoes from bouncing around and causing any damage to the washing machine.

Use a mild detergent

Choose a mild detergent that is suitable for the shoe type. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage the shoe material.

Wash on a gentle cycle

Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle and use cold water to avoid damaging the shoe’s structure.

Air-dry the shoes

Never put shoes in the dryer as this can cause damage. Instead, stuff them with dry paper towels and let them air-dry in a well-ventilated area.

Related To: How To Get Dog Poop Off Shoes?

how to clean toddler shoe from pee?

Cleaning pee off toddler shoes is important to prevent any unpleasant smell and to keep the shoes hygienic. Here are the steps to clean toddler shoes from pee:

Remove as much pee as possible by wiping it away with a damp cloth. Make sure to act fast and remove the pee as soon as you can.
In a container, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water to create a cleaning solution.
Dip a cloth into the solution and use it to gently wipe the inside and outside of the shoes.
Let the vinegar solution sit on the shoes for 10-15 minutes to neutralize any odor and disinfect the shoes.
After 15 minutes, rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water.
Stuff the shoes with dry paper towels to help them retain their shape and absorb any excess water.
Place the shoes and the paper towels in a well-ventilated area to air-dry completely.
Once the shoes are completely dry, you can sprinkle a little baking soda inside them to further help absorb any odor.

Final Words

Washing kids’ shoes is an essential task to keep them clean, hygienic, and in good condition. Whether it’s machine-washing or hand-washing, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and choose the appropriate method based on the shoe type and material. By choosing the correct method, using a mild detergent, and air-drying the shoes properly, you can avoid causing any damage to the shoes, while keeping them looking and smelling fresh.

Additionally, paying attention to regular cleaning and maintenance of kids’ shoes can help prevent bacteria or grime buildup, ensuring optimal hygiene, and prolonging the life of the shoes. Remember that keeping your children’s shoes clean is not just about appearance, but it’s also essential for their health and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Converse shoes are machine washable. However, it is always best to check the label for any specific washing instructions to be sure.

Shoes with Velcro straps are machine-washable, but you should be careful to ensure that the Velcro does not damage the shoes during the washing process.

Yes, you can wash shoes with baking soda by adding a small amount to the washing cycle. Baking soda helps to eliminate odors.

Bleach may be too harsh for some shoe materials and may cause discoloration. It is best to avoid using bleach and choose a mild detergent instead.

No, shoes should never be put in the dryer as this can cause damage to the shoe material. It is best to let shoes air-dry in a well-ventilated area after cleaning.

Suede shoes are delicate and should not be machine-washed. Instead, they should be hand-washed using a suede cleaner and a soft brush, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

No, leather shoes should not be washed in the washing machine as the water and detergent can damage the leather. Instead, they should be cleaned using a leather cleaner and a soft cloth.

Kathrine Alexa

Kathrine Alexa is a seasoned expert in the sports shoe industry, with over a decade of experience. Based in the United States, she is the proud owner of gameershoe.com, a popular sports site dedicated to providing the latest updates, reviews, and insights on athletic footwear. With her extensive knowledge and passion for the industry, Kathrine is committed to helping athletes find the perfect shoes to enhance their performance.