Putting shoes in the dryer or washing machine can potentially damage both the shoes and the machine. Here's why:
Damage to the Shoes: Washing machines are designed to handle fabrics like clothing and linens, not shoes. The agitator or drum's force and the fast spinning motion in a washing machine can cause excessive wear and tear on shoes. The shoes might lose their shape, and the materials may become damaged or separated, resulting in a ruined pair of shoes.
Damage to the Washing Machine: Shoes can be heavy and unevenly shaped, which can lead to imbalanced loads in the washing machine. An unbalanced load can cause the machine to vibrate excessively during the spin cycle, potentially damaging its internal components or even causing the machine to move or tip over.
Clogging and Residue: Shoes may release dirt, mud, and other debris during the washing process. These particles can clog the washing machine's drainage system or get trapped in the drum, leading to reduced efficiency and potentially causing malfunctions.
If you need to clean your shoes, it's generally safer to do so manually by hand. Here's a safer alternative to washing machine or dryer:
Hand Wash: Gently scrub the shoes with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and water to help remove odors.
Air Dry: After cleaning, allow the shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Placing them in direct sunlight or using direct heat sources like a dryer can cause damage to the shoes' materials.
If your shoes are specifically labeled as machine-washable by the manufacturer, then you can consider washing them in the machine. However, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use a gentle cycle to reduce the risk of damage to both the shoes and the washing machine. As a general rule, it's best to avoid putting shoes in the washing machine or dryer unless the manufacturer explicitly states that it is safe to do so.