How To Wash New Balance Shoes In Washing Machine: Safe Tips

Machine-wash New Balance properly: remove laces, gentle cold cycle, air dry.

I’ve taught thousands of people how to wash New Balance shoes in washing machine and tested methods on multiple models. This guide gives clear, safe steps, and real-life tips so you can clean your shoes without wrecking them. Read on to learn when machine washing is ok, how to prep your shoes, exact washer settings, drying tricks, and mistakes to avoid.

Can you wash New Balance shoes in a washing machine?

Yes — many New Balance styles can handle a machine wash if you follow the right steps. Soft mesh, knit, and many synthetic uppers are usually safe. Leather, suede, and shoes with glued decorative pieces should not go in the washer. Knowing the material and construction is the first step to avoid damage when you clean.

Which New Balance shoes are safe for machine washing?

Shoes that are typically safe:

• Shoes with textile or knit uppers and rubber soles.
• Shoes with no glued embellishments that might lift in water.
• Older models that are heavily soiled and built for use or training.

Avoid machine washing:

• Leather or suede models.
• Shoes with foam midsoles that may absorb water and deform.
• Shoes with internal wiring or LEDs. Always check the care tag inside the shoe or the manufacturer's care guidance before you try to wash. If you’re unsure, hand-wash instead.

Step-by-step: how to wash new balance shoes in washing machine

Follow these steps to minimize wear and keep shoes intact.

1. Inspect the shoes.
   • Check for loose stitching, separated soles, or delicate trims.
   • If the shoe is damaged, skip the machine.
2. Remove laces and insoles.
   • Take out laces and insoles to clean separately. Laces can tangle and insoles can warp.
3. Pre-clean heavy dirt.
   • Knock off dried mud and scrub with a soft brush and a little warm water to remove grit.
4. Protect the shoes.
   • Place shoes in a laundry bag or pillowcase. Add a few towels to balance the load.
5. Choose washer settings.
   • Use cold water, gentle cycle, and a low spin. Use a mild liquid detergent.
6. Start the wash.
   • Run the machine on a short, gentle program. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
7. Remove promptly.
   • Take shoes out immediately to prevent odor and mildew.

These steps protect the shoe shape and glue. I’ve washed my own training shoes this way for years with no glue failure when I followed these steps.

Washing settings, detergents, and laundry bag tips

Use these settings for best results:

• Water temperature: cold only.
• Cycle: gentle or delicate.
• Spin: low or no spin to protect glues and shapes.
• Detergent: mild liquid laundry soap. Avoid powdered detergents that can leave grit.
• Laundry bag: protects the shoe and the washer drum. Use a sturdy mesh bag or a pillowcase tied closed.

Small additions help:

• Add towels to cushion the shoes and keep the machine balanced.
• Use a single shoe pair per load to avoid clashes. These choices reduce noise and damage in the wash.

Drying, reshaping, and aftercare

Drying is where many shoes fail. Follow these rules:

• Air dry only. Never put New Balance shoes in a dryer unless the model specifically says it’s safe.
• Stuff shoes with paper towels or clean cloths to absorb moisture and keep shape.
• Avoid direct heat or sunlight to prevent fading or melting glue.
• Reinsert insoles only after both shoes and insoles are fully dry.

I learned this the hard way after rushing shoes into a heater. The shape changed and the heel felt stiff. Gentle air drying saved my newer pairs.

Common mistakes and problems to avoid

Avoid these pitfalls commonly seen in DIY cleaning:

• Tossing leather or suede New Balance shoes into the washer.
• Using hot water or high spin cycles that break down glue and foam.
• Skipping pre-cleaning; sand and grit can grind fabric in the wash.
• Drying near a radiator or in direct sun, which can warp midsoles and fade colors.
• Using harsh detergents or bleach that weaken materials.

When in doubt, hand wash or consult brand care recommendations to lower risk.

Maintenance tips to keep New Balance shoes fresh longer

Regular care extends shoe life:

• Spot clean weekly with mild soap and a soft brush.
• Air shoes out after workouts to reduce odor and bacteria.
• Rotate pairs to let foam and cushioning recover between uses.
• Reapply waterproof spray on textile shoes to protect against stains.
• Replace insoles if cushioning or odor becomes an issue.

These small habits delay deep cleaning and reduce the frequency you need to learn how to wash new balance shoes in washing machine.

Frequently Asked Questions of how to wash new balance shoes in washing machine

How often can I machine wash New Balance shoes?

Machine wash only when shoes are visibly dirty or smell bad. Frequent washing can break down glue and cushioning, so limit it to occasional deep cleans.

Can I wash New Balance running shoes with insoles in the machine?

Remove insoles before washing. Insoles can warp or trap water and may take very long to dry if left inside the shoes.

Will machine washing ruin my shoe color or finish?

Cold water and mild detergent reduce fading risk, but delicate finishes and leather can discolor. Test a small hidden area or hand-wash if you’re unsure.

Is it safe to use baking soda or vinegar in the wash?

Avoid strong household cleaners in the machine. A small amount of baking soda in a rinse can help odor, but vinegar can weaken glue and should be used sparingly.

How long do New Balance shoes take to air dry after a wash?

Expect 24 to 48 hours to fully air dry, depending on humidity and airflow. Remove insoles and stuff shoes to speed up drying and preserve shape.

Conclusion

Washing New Balance shoes in a washing machine can be safe when you know the right steps. Inspect materials, remove laces and insoles, use a cold gentle cycle, and air dry for the best results. Treat your shoes kindly and they’ll reward you with longer life and better performance. Try one pair first, follow these steps, and share your results or questions below — I’d love to hear how it worked for you.