Washing sneakers in the dishwasher sounds like a life hack you might see in a viral video, but it’s a real method people use to refresh their favorite shoes. If you’re tired of hand scrubbing sneakers or worried the washing machine will damage them, the dishwasher can be a helpful alternative—if you do it right.
However, there are important steps, precautions, and tips that can make or break your sneaker-cleaning success.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about washing sneakers in the dishwasher. You’ll learn which sneakers are safe, what you need, how to prepare your shoes, the cleaning process, drying methods, and common mistakes to avoid.
Even if you’ve never tried this before, you’ll finish feeling confident and ready to try it with your own sneakers. Plus, you’ll find answers to common questions and get tips many beginners miss.
Why Wash Sneakers In The Dishwasher?
Most people wash sneakers by hand or in the washing machine, so why choose the dishwasher? The answer comes down to convenience and effectiveness. The dishwasher’s water jets can clean sneakers more evenly, especially in hard-to-reach areas. It’s a hands-off process—just load, run, and wait.
Still, it’s not for every shoe or every household. Dishwashers aren’t designed for shoes, and doing it incorrectly can lead to ruined sneakers or a smelly dishwasher. That’s why understanding when and how to use this method is essential.
Which Sneakers Are Dishwasher-safe?
Not all sneakers can survive a dishwasher wash. Before you begin, check if your shoes are made from materials that can handle heat and water. Here’s a quick overview:
| Sneaker Material | Dishwasher Safe? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton canvas | Yes | Best choice; air dry only. |
| Nylon/Polyester mesh | Yes | Dry on low heat or air dry. |
| Leather (real or faux) | No | Water and heat can warp or crack. |
| Suede | No | Water stains and damages suede. |
| Rubber (soles) | Yes | Safe, but check for glue. |
| Decorated/embellished | No | Glue, decorations, and paint may fall off. |
If you’re unsure, check the shoe label. Most major brands, like Nike or Adidas, provide cleaning advice online. When in doubt, test with an older pair first.
What You Need Before You Start
Gather these supplies before you wash your sneakers in the dishwasher:
- Mild dish soap (no bleach or harsh chemicals)
- Old toothbrush or soft brush (for pre-cleaning)
- Mesh laundry bag (optional, helps protect shoes)
- Paper towels or microfiber cloth
- Drying rack or well-ventilated space
You’ll also need a dishwasher with a removable top rack (most standard models have this). Avoid washing sneakers with dishes. Clean the dishwasher filter and tub first if you haven’t recently, as shoes can stir up debris.
Preparing Sneakers For Dishwasher Cleaning
Preparation is the most important part. Skipping these steps can ruin your sneakers or dishwasher.
Remove Laces And Insoles
Take out shoelaces and insoles. Laces can wrap around dishwasher arms, and insoles may absorb too much water. Wash these separately by hand with soap and water. If your insoles are glued in, wipe them with a damp cloth instead.
Brush Off Loose Dirt
Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to remove dried mud or large dirt chunks. This prevents the dishwasher from clogging and ensures better cleaning.
Spot Treat Stains
For tough stains, apply a bit of dish soap and scrub with the brush. Focus on the toe, heel, and sole. Rinse off any excess soap.
Secure In Mesh Bag (optional)
Placing sneakers in a mesh laundry bag can prevent them from banging around and scratching the dishwasher. If you don’t have a bag, position the shoes so they don’t move much.
Check The Dishwasher
Remove all dishes, utensils, and food debris. Wipe out the dishwasher to avoid transferring smells or grime to your sneakers.
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How To Load Sneakers In The Dishwasher
Proper loading is key to avoid damage:
- Place sneakers on the top rack—never the bottom. The bottom is too close to the heating element and can warp shoes.
- Lay sneakers on their sides, soles facing out.
- Don’t overcrowd. Wash a maximum of two pairs at a time, with space between them.
- Make sure spray arms can spin freely.
If your shoes are large or the dishwasher is small, wash one pair at a time.
Choosing The Right Dishwasher Settings
The wrong settings can melt glue, warp plastic, or shrink fabric. Follow these tips for best results:
- Skip heated dry: Turn off the heated drying cycle. Use air dry or open the dishwasher door after washing.
- Use gentle/quick cycle: Select a short or gentle cycle with lower water temperature.
- Cold or warm water only: Avoid hot cycles. Heat can damage shoe fabric and glue.
Never add bleach or harsh chemicals. They can fade colors and break down materials.
Adding Detergent
Use a small amount of mild dish soap. Pods and strong detergents are too harsh. A teaspoon is enough—too much soap can leave residue on your sneakers.
Don’t use laundry detergent, as it often contains additives not intended for dishwashers.
The Washing Process: Step-by-step
Let’s break down the full process:
- Remove laces and insoles. Wash separately.
- Brush off dirt. Focus on the sole and seams.
- Spot clean stains. Apply a little dish soap with a brush.
- Load sneakers on the top rack. Use a mesh bag if possible.
- Add a small amount of mild dish soap.
- Select gentle/cold cycle. Turn off heated dry.
- Start the dishwasher. Stay nearby in case shoes move or make noise.
- When finished, remove shoes promptly. Check for any soap residue.
- Wipe off extra water with a towel or cloth.
- Air dry completely before wearing.
This process usually takes about 1-2 hours for washing, plus drying time.
Drying Sneakers After Dishwasher Cleaning
Never use the heated dry function in your dishwasher. High heat can shrink or warp your sneakers. Instead, follow these steps:
Air Dry Only
Remove sneakers from the dishwasher right away. Stuff each shoe with paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb moisture and help them keep their shape. Replace the paper every few hours until the shoes are mostly dry.
Place sneakers in a well-ventilated area, but not in direct sunlight. Sun can fade colors or damage glue. A fan can speed up drying if you need your shoes sooner.
Avoid The Dryer
Never put sneakers in the clothes dryer. Even on a low setting, the heat and tumbling can ruin them.
Drying Time
Drying usually takes 12-24 hours depending on the material and room airflow. Sneakers with thick padding or foam may take longer.
Cleaning Laces And Insoles
While your sneakers are air drying, clean the laces and insoles separately:
- Soak laces in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.
- For removable insoles, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not soak foam insoles, as they can break down or become misshapen.
- Let insoles and laces air dry fully before putting them back in the shoes.
This step helps prevent odors and keeps your whole sneaker fresh.
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Common Mistakes To Avoid
Washing sneakers in the dishwasher works, but only if you avoid these common errors:
- Using the heated dry cycle: This is the fastest way to warp or shrink sneakers.
- Washing with dishes: Shoes can pick up food smells, and food particles can stick to sneakers.
- Using bleach or strong chemicals: These can fade colors, damage glue, or break down materials.
- Ignoring the material: Leather, suede, and decorated shoes do not belong in the dishwasher.
- Not securing shoes: If sneakers move around, they can get stuck or damage the dishwasher.
- Too much soap: Excess soap can leave residue and require extra rinsing.
- Skipping pre-cleaning: Mud or rocks can clog the dishwasher and scratch sneakers.
- Not removing laces/insoles: This traps dirt and makes drying slower.
- Not drying fully: Wearing damp sneakers can cause blisters and odors.
- Washing too often: Even tough sneakers can break down if washed in the dishwasher too frequently.
Pros And Cons: Is It Worth It?
Let’s compare the benefits and drawbacks of using a dishwasher for sneaker cleaning.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient and hands-free | Not safe for all materials |
| Thorough cleaning, especially soles | Can damage shoes if done incorrectly |
| No need for special equipment | Risk of dishwasher odor |
| Good for canvas and mesh sneakers | Not ideal for frequent cleaning |
For most people, the dishwasher method is best for old or everyday sneakers, not expensive or rare pairs.
Cleaning The Dishwasher After Washing Sneakers
Dishwashers are made for food, not shoes. After cleaning sneakers, you should also clean your dishwasher to avoid odors or debris.
- Check for debris: Look for mud, rocks, or loose threads around the filter and spray arms.
- Wipe the tub: Use a damp cloth with a little vinegar or dish soap.
- Run an empty cycle: Add a cup of white vinegar to the top rack and run a hot cycle (with no shoes or dishes).
- Clean the filter: If your dishwasher has a removable filter, rinse it under hot water.
This keeps your dishwasher fresh and ready for your next load of dishes.
How Often Can You Wash Sneakers In The Dishwasher?
While washing sneakers in the dishwasher is effective, it’s not meant for regular use. The strong water jets and heat can break down glue and fabric over time. As a general rule, use this method only a few times per year—no more than every 2-3 months per pair.
If you’re a runner or athlete and need to clean shoes more often, try hand washing or spot cleaning instead. This will extend the life of your sneakers.
Extra Tips And Non-obvious Insights
People who wash sneakers in the dishwasher often miss these details:
- Test dishwasher-safe shoes with an old pair first. Not all shoes react the same way, even if they’re made from “safe” materials.
- Sneaker color may bleed. Washing two pairs at once? Only combine similar colors to avoid dye transfer.
- Odor control: Add a half-cup of baking soda to the bottom of the dishwasher if shoes are very smelly.
- Don’t forget the glue: Many sneakers are held together by glue, which weakens with repeated washing or high heat. Check for loose soles after washing.
- Mesh bags aren’t just for protection: They also help shoes dry more evenly by circulating air around the fabric.
- Don’t use fabric softener: It can leave residue on sneakers, making them slippery or sticky.
When Not To Use The Dishwasher
Some situations call for other cleaning methods:
- Expensive or limited-edition sneakers: Hand wash carefully or use professional cleaning services.
- Shoes with battery packs, lights, or electronics: Never put these in water.
- Heavily soiled shoes: If sneakers are caked with mud or chemicals (like lawn fertilizer), rinse them outside first.
For more advice, brands like Adidas offer cleaning guides for their own models. You can check out the official Adidas guide for more brand-specific tips.
Alternative Sneaker Cleaning Methods
If you decide the dishwasher isn’t right for your shoes, here are other options:
Hand Washing
- Fill a bucket or sink with warm water and a few drops of mild soap.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the shoes.
- Rinse with clean water and air dry.
Washing Machine
Some sneakers can be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Use a mesh bag and cold water, and avoid the dryer.
Spot Cleaning
For small stains, use a brush and mild soap. Wipe and air dry.
Professional Cleaning
For expensive or rare sneakers, use a professional shoe cleaner. They have the right tools and products for delicate materials.
Environmental Impact: Is Dishwasher Cleaning Green?
You might wonder if using the dishwasher is better or worse for the environment compared to hand washing. It depends:
- Water use: Dishwashers use about 3-5 gallons per cycle, which is less than hand washing under a running tap.
- Energy: Dishwasher cycles use electricity, especially for heated dry (which you’ll skip).
- Detergents: Use biodegradable or mild soap to reduce chemical pollution.
If you only run a load for sneakers, it’s less efficient than cleaning several dishes at once. If you’re eco-conscious, hand washing with a small bowl of water is the greenest option.
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Sneaker Care After Cleaning
Proper care helps sneakers last longer after cleaning:
- Let shoes dry fully before storing or wearing.
- Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid closets with poor airflow.
- Use sneaker deodorizer if odor is a problem.
- Check for damage after each wash—loose soles, torn seams, or fading.
With good care, your sneakers will stay fresh and clean for many more miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wash All Types Of Sneakers In The Dishwasher?
No. Leather, suede, decorated, and electronic sneakers should not go in the dishwasher. Stick to canvas, mesh, and plain rubber-soled shoes for best results.
Will The Dishwasher Ruin My Sneakers?
If you follow the right steps—top rack only, gentle cycle, no heat, no bleach—most canvas and mesh sneakers will be fine. However, there’s always some risk, especially if shoes are old or poorly made.
How Do I Remove Odor After Dishwasher Cleaning?
If sneakers still smell after washing, sprinkle baking soda inside and let them sit overnight. You can also use sneaker deodorizing sprays or place dryer sheets inside the shoes.
Is It Safe For My Dishwasher?
If you clean out dirt and debris after washing sneakers, your dishwasher should be fine. Always run an empty cycle with vinegar to remove any shoe odors or dirt before using it for dishes again.
How Often Can I Use The Dishwasher To Clean Sneakers?
Limit dishwasher cleaning to every few months for any one pair. Frequent washing can break down glue and fabric, shortening the life of your shoes.
Washing sneakers in the dishwasher can save time and effort, but only if you do it carefully. By following these tips and steps, you’ll keep your sneakers—and your dishwasher—in good shape for years to come.