We get asked this question a lot on our Tennis Holidays, especially at our destinations where we play on clay courts and shoes can get discoloured. How can I wash my tennis shoes? Can I put my tennis shoes in the washing machine? In this blog post we’re going to help you answer that question. There is no definitive right or wrong answer – it depends!
Tennis shoes differ from normal style trainers due to their need to provide stability and support to the foot during wear. Proper tennis shoes should have rubber soles for flexibility, shock absorption and support, along with a breathable mesh for the upper part of the shoe allowing for breathability and further support. Tennis shoes are more lightweight than a standard shoe. These differences mean that you should take a little bit more caution than when washing normal style shoes in the washing machine.
Putting tennis shoes in the washing machine may seem like a convenient way to clean them, but is it really a good idea? While it may be tempting to throw your dirty tennis shoes into the washer for a quick spin, there are certain factors to keep in mind to avoid damage.
1. Check the instructions label on your tennis shoes. Check the care instructions on your tennis shoes, some materials such as suede or leather could be damaged by a washing machine cycle.
2. Consider the overall condition of your tennis shoes. If your tennis shoes are falling apart or have loose soles, putting them through a rough cycle in the washing machine could further damage them and make them unwearable for a tennis match.
3. Think about what you’re putting in with your tennis shoes. If your tennis shoes are caked in mud or covered in grass stains from a wet grass court tennis match, then you might end up damaging or clogging up your washing machine.
Once you’ve assessed these three factors and have decided to go ahead and put your tennis shoes in the washing machine, there are still precautions you should take.
1. Remove the laces and insoles. Removing laces or any removable insoles from your tennis shoes will prevent the laces from fraying or becoming damaged.
2. Place your tennis shoes in a mesh laundry bag. Washing your tennis shoes in a mesh laundry helps protect them during the wash cycle. If you don’t have a mesh laundry bag, you can use a pillow case!
3. Don’t put too much detergent in! This can lead to excessive sudsing and potentially damage both the shoes and the washing machine itself. Also make sure you’re using a mild detergent as harsh chemicals can be abrasive and damage your tennis shoes.
4. Choose a delicate or gentle wash cycle. A gentle wash cycle setting on cold water will preserve the integrity of your tennis shoes while cleaning them thoroughly. Using a hot wash may shrink your tennis shoes and mean they are no longer wearable.
Once the cycle is complete, remove your tennis shoes from the mesh laundry bag or pillow case and let them air dry. Here are a few top tips when drying your tennis shoes after putting them in the washing machine:
1. Stuff your tennis shoes with clean rags or paper towels. This will help to absorb excess moisture and to help them keep shape as they dry.
2. Place your shoes in a place where they’ll receive lots of sunlight. This will speed up the drying process.
3. Your shoes may take a few days to dry. However, using a dryer isn’t recommended as the heat and tumbling can further damage your tennis shoes.
In summary it is possible, and often necessary to clean your tennis shoes in the washing machine, but it’s important to take proper precautions. Follow these tips, and you can wash your tennis shoes in the washing machine with minimal risk.
1. Tennis Shoes differ from normal shoes so make sure to take extra caution when putting them in the washing machine.
2. Before putting your tennis shoes in the washing machine, read the instructions on the shoes and consider the condition of your tennis shoes.
3. Think about what sort of cycle you are going to put your tennis shoes on and what you’re going to put in the wash with your tennis shoes.
4. Air dry your tennis shoes instead of putting them in a tumble dryer.
