Let’s face it – kids’ shoes take a beating. Whether it’s muddy puddles, sandpits, or sticky playgrounds, those adorable little boys’ shoes, girls’ shoes, and baby shoes rarely stay clean for long. Understandably, many parents wonder: “Can I just throw them in the washing machine?”
At Awesome Shoes, we know how important it is to keep your child’s footwear fresh, clean, and in great shape. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about washing and drying kids’ shoes safely, without ruining them!
Can Kids’ Shoes Go in the Washing Machine?
Yes – but with caution. Many types of kids’ shoes can go in the washing machine, but it depends on the material and construction. Before tossing them in, you should always check the manufacturer’s care label (often found on the tongue or inner sole of the shoe).
Best Candidates for Machine Washing:
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Canvas shoes: Think classic trainers and plimsolls.
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Synthetic trainers: Many sporty boys’ shoes and girls’ shoes are made from durable materials like mesh and polyester.
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Some baby shoes: Soft, cloth-based baby shoes may be machine-washable, but always use a gentle cycle.
Shoes to Avoid Putting in the Machine:
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Leather or suede shoes: These materials can dry out, crack, or lose shape.
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Shoes with lights or batteries: Common in some kids’ trainers, these should never be submerged in water.
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Delicate dress shoes: Think Mary Janes or patent styles for formal occasions.
How to Wash Kids’ Shoes in the Washing Machine: Step-by-Step
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Remove laces and insoles
Wash laces separately and wipe insoles by hand to prevent warping. -
Pre-clean dirt and mud
Knock off loose dirt and scrub soles lightly with an old toothbrush. -
Use a laundry bag or pillowcase
Protect the shoes and your machine by placing them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. -
Wash on a cold, gentle cycle
Use a mild detergent and skip the spin cycle if possible. -
Air dry only (more on this next!)
Can Kids’ Shoes Go in the Dryer?
Generally, no – avoid using the dryer. The intense heat and tumbling motion of a tumble dryer can warp the shape of your child’s shoes, damage adhesives, and shrink certain materials.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Kids’ Shoes in the Dryer:
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Heat can damage the glue that holds many children’s shoes together.
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Rubber soles may crack or warp, affecting the fit and comfort.
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Leather and suede can shrink, fade, or stiffen irreparably.
7 Parent-Approved Tips to Dry Kids’ Shoes Safely
If you’re wondering how to dry your child’s shoes without a tumble dryer, here are some practical and safe alternatives:
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Air dry naturally
Place shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. -
Use a fan
Speed up the process by setting up a fan to blow directly into the shoes. -
Stuff with newspaper or kitchen roll
Absorbs moisture from the inside and helps maintain shape. -
Remove insoles and open up the shoes
Increases airflow and reduces drying time. -
Hang shoes by the laces
Allows air to circulate around the shoes evenly. -
Avoid radiators and heaters
Heat can cause the soles or fabric to become brittle and crack. -
Try silica gel packets
If you’ve saved any from packaging, they can help draw out moisture overnight.
Extra Care for Baby Shoes
Baby shoes, especially soft-soled or crib shoes, are often made from delicate fabrics. These usually don’t need machine washing. A gentle hand wash using mild soap and a soft cloth will do the trick.
Always ensure baby shoes are thoroughly dried before putting them back on – damp shoes can lead to discomfort or even skin irritation for your little one.
The Bottom Line: Wash With Care, Dry With Caution
While it’s tempting to toss kids’ shoes straight into the washing machine and dryer, a bit of care goes a long way in extending the life of your child’s favourite pair. Stick to gentle machine washing only when it’s safe, and skip the dryer altogether.
At Awesome Shoes, we stock a wide range of durable, easy-clean boys' shoes, girls' shoes, and baby shoes designed for real-life messes — and real-life parents. Whether you’re looking for washable school shoes or waterproof toddler boots, we’ve got you (and your kids’ feet) covered.
