In general, it is not recommended to wash shoes in the washing machine along with clothes. There are a few reasons for this:
Potential damage to the washing machine: Shoes are typically made of hard materials like rubber, leather, or plastic, which can cause damage to the drum or other parts of the washing machine during the agitation cycle.
Damage to shoes: The washing machine's agitator can be harsh on shoes, leading to wear and tear, deformation, or even disintegration in extreme cases.
Safety concerns: If the shoes have any metal parts (like shoe buckles or hooks), they can damage the washing machine or become damaged themselves during the wash cycle.
Hygiene and cleanliness: Shoes can be quite dirty, and washing them with clothes can transfer dirt and bacteria onto your garments, potentially ruining them or making them unhygienic to wear.
If you need to clean your shoes, it's best to do it separately by hand or use alternative methods such as spot cleaning, using a brush, or wiping with a damp cloth. You can also use specialized shoe-cleaning products that are designed to be gentle on shoe materials.
If you absolutely must clean your shoes in the washing machine, it's better to wash them alone or with other shoes of similar materials and colors. Before doing so, check the manufacturer's guidelines on whether the shoes are machine-washable. Additionally, place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect both the shoes and the washing machine during the wash cycle. Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water, and avoid using harsh detergents or bleach. After the wash cycle, allow the shoes to air dry completely before using them again. However, keep in mind that machine washing may still cause damage or reduce the lifespan of your shoes.