Skip to content
Home Appliances
Log in / Register

How do I wash trainers in my washing machine?

Bosch has got all the information you need to know about washing trainers in the washing machine the right way. Cleaning trainers by hand is hard work, especially if they are heavily stained and covered in mud, but most people are unaware that it is perfectly okay to wash many different types of trainers in the washing machine with great results.

In this guide we've outlined what types of trainer materials are suitable to be washed in the washing machine and have included a step-by-step guide that teaches you the correct way to wash your trainers in the washing machine.

Can I wash my trainers in the washing machine?

care label instructions

Shoes that are made from animal products such as leather or suede can sustain water damage from being washed in a washing machine. On the other hand, trainers that are made from synthetic materials like nylon and polyester are more hard-wearing and can therefore withstand multiple washes in a washing machine.

However, it is very important to follow the instructions found on the care label attached to your trainers, which will determine whether or not your trainers are suitable to be washed in a washing machine. If the care label on your trainers advises against machine washing, then an alternative washing method will be recommended, such as hand washing.

Step by step guide

Follow the step by step guide below to wash trainers in your washing machine the right way.

Step one

Remove the laces from your trainers and scrub off any excess mud or dirt from the surface using an old toothbrush or a wire brush. This will allow the washing machine to clean away any remaining dirt on your trainers more effectively.

Step two

Ideally put your trainers and its laces inside a wash bag and then place this in the washing machine drum. This will prevent the trainers from becoming trapped on the inside of the drum, especially between the rubber door seal.

Step three

To reduce the noise from the trainers banging against the drum, it is advisable to add a few towels into the drum along with your trainers. This will help soften the impact of the trainers hitting against the drum by providing a layer of protection.

Step four

Wash your trainers using a cold water temperature to prevent the colours from fading and bleeding out. Additionally, use a high quality colour detergent, which should be added to the drum in a dosing ball with your trainers prior to starting the wash.

trainers tumble dryer

Can I dry my trainers in the tumble dryer?

After washing your trainers in the washing machine, it might be quite tempting to pop them straight in the tumble dryer to get them dried out quickly. However, we would strongly advise against this, as the heat from the tumble dryer can cause considerable damage to trainers by melting the glue, leaving them vulnerable to breaking. A better idea is to air dry your trainers outside, so long as it is not raining! This will also ensure that your trainers are dried in the correct shape so that they will remain comfortable to wear.

Other useful washing tips and information

Here are some more helpful tips and advice on how to achieve perfect results with your Bosch washing machine every time.

Washing machine symbols explained

Discover the difference and meaning between the many different laundry symbols as we explain them all here.

View our range of washing machines

Have a look at our range of washing machines and discover more detail with our interactive product guides.

Washing machine symbols and settings

With our washing machine guide, we will explain everything you need to know to make washing simple.

Need help with your washing machine?

Resolve faults quickly with our self-help guide to get your washing machine back up and running.

Contact Us

Do you need further help and support? Our customer service team will be able to provide the help you need.

Repair Service

Need to book a repair? Not a problem. We can arrange for an engineer to repair your appliance, both in and out of warranty.

User Manuals

If you need any help and support that is specific to your Bosch appliance model, your user manual is the best place to find this information.

Bosch Store

Search for original spare parts and buy tested and approved accessories and care products for your Bosch appliances in the Bosch store.