Can You Put Trainers In The Dryer

When you have cleaned your trainers and they are wet, you might find it difficult to dry them, especially when it can take more than a day to fully air dry them through.

The last thing you want is to have to wear sneakers that feel damp, and it will not be good for your skin health, either.

The question has been asked many times: can you put trainers in the dryer?

Whilst many believe that it extends the life of their trainers, others don't agree.

So, let's take a look at the question in more detail, and look at other ways to dry your shoes if a dryer isn't an option for you.

Putting Your Trainers Into A Dryer

Yes, you can put trainers in the dry cycle. In fact, it does seem to extend the life of the shoe.

Whilst putting trainers in the dryer extends the life of the shoe, it can also cause damage to the leather.

With that in mind, if you really care about your shoes and want to keep the outside looking tip-top, it is probably worth skipping the dryer altogether.

If you are going to use a dryer, make sure you don't overdo it.

The best way is to set your machine on low and let it run for half an hour.

This will help to soften up the leather and allow it to breathe.

If you do decide to try this method, be careful not to get too much heat into the shoe.

It's better to take it out after 30 minutes than have it melt through the sole.

How To Dry Trainers In A Tumble Dryer Without Causing Damage

It is possible to dry your trainers without damaging them using a tumble dryer.

However, there are some things you need to know before you start.

Firstly, you should always check with the manufacturer first to see whether or not you can dry them in the tumble dryer.

If you're unsure, then ask someone who knows what they're talking about.

Secondly, make sure that you only dry one pair of trainers at a time.

If you have multiple pairs of trainers, it is important to ensure that you don't leave any of them in the dryer for too long.

Finally, make sure that you follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Some manufacturers recommend drying shoes in a warm room, whilst others suggest leaving them in a cool place.

Whichever method you choose, make sure that you stick to the guidelines as they could affect the lifespan of your trainer.

Other Ways To Dry Your Shoes

If a dryer isn't a great option for you, then there are other ways to clean shoes:

Air Drying

If you live somewhere with warm weather, then drying your shoes by hanging them out in the sun is one of the easiest methods.

Just make sure you hang them so that they don't touch each other or anything else.

Placing scrunched up paper towels inside the shoe will also help to remove excess moisture.

Just remember to change it once it becomes too damp to work.

Line Drying

Another simple method is to line dry your shoes.

Simply place them inside a large plastic bag, tie off the top and leave them there until completely dried.

Make sure you check the soles regularly as they tend to expand during the drying process.

Dehumidifier

If you live in a humid area, then using a dehumidifier may be a great solution.

Set the unit on high and leave it running for several hours. You should see some improvement within 24 hours.

Vacuum Cleaning

Another easy method is to vacuum clean your shoes.

The suction from the cleaner helps to remove any moisture that may be trapped between the leather and the sole.

Shoe Trees

A very popular method is to place your shoes in a shoe tree.

These come in different sizes and shapes, but all work in a similar fashion.

They are designed to absorb excess water and prevent mold growth.

Hand Washing

You could always hand wash your trainers. This is a quick and effective method, and is a great way to spot clean.

Just using a brush and warm water can do the trick. For extra cleaning, add some dish soap.

Using A Steam Iron

There are plenty of steam irons available these days, including ones specifically made for cleaning shoes.

Some people even recommend using a steamer to clean their trainers before wearing them.

Professional Cleaning

If none of the above options suit you, then you might consider having your trainers professionally cleaned.

Many professional cleaners offer a service where they will clean your trainers and replace the laces.

Can You Put Trainers In A Washing Machine?

You may think that washing your trainers would be a quick and easy way to clean them.

However, it can be too harsh on your trainers.

Washing machines can be very powerful, which means that they can easily rip apart your trainers' soles.

They can even cause permanent damage to the insoles.

This is why it is advised not to use a washer to clean your trainers. Instead, it is recommended to do it manually.

How To Manually Wash Your Shoes

To wash your trainers manually, simply fill the sink with water and add a few drops of dish soap.

Make sure that you rinse the trainers thoroughly under running water once finished, and then pat them down so that all the dirt falls off.

Use a brush on particularly tough stains.

Once you've finished cleaning your trainers, give them a good wipe down with a soft cloth.

Make sure that you rub gently across the surface of the trainers to avoid damaging the material.

Final Words

Hopefully this guide has helped you learn how to clean and dry your trainers properly.

It's important to keep your trainers looking new and fresh, especially if you plan on selling them at a later date - or if you just love your pair of sneakers.