How to Wash Leather Shoes in a Washing Machine

Leather shoes will last you a long time if they are properly taken care of. Leather is known for its durability. Many people feel confident in investing in leather shoes, since they will last longer and look better in the long run. However, shoes do get dirty. We walk in mud, in streets, on sidewalks and in gum. A good wash is certainly in order every now and then. Leather shoes can be washed in the washing machine. The shoes will come out cleaner and newer looking.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Washer
• Laundry detergent

How to Wash Leather Shoes in a Washing Machine

1. Untie the shoelaces and loosen them in order to open up the shoe. This will allow the shoes to get a thorough cleaning.

2. Set the washing machine to either cold or warm. Using hot water could cause damage to the leather shoes. You will want the temperature to remain below 80 degrees but above 40 degrees. This is an optimal temperature for leather shoes.

3. Set the load to small. This will use less water and prevent the shoes from getting more water than they need. Be sure to wash the shoes by themselves. Unlike other items you wash, leather shoes have the potential for the stain rubbing off the shoes. This could damage other items you are washing.

4. Set the shoes inside the washer. If you have a top load washer, place the shoes on either side of the agitator located in the middle of the washer tub. If you have a front loader, simply set them in side by side.

5. Measure out enough detergent for a small load of clothes, then divide it in half. You will not need much detergent to wash leather shoes. They simply need enough suds to scrub the outside and inside. Too much detergent could set into the leather shoes and possibly cause damage to the leather.

6. Allow the washer to complete its cycle. The cycle length only needs to be about 4 to 6 minutes. This is usually the gentle cycle setting on most washers. Allowing the leather shoes to absorb too much water means they will be harder to dry, and more prone to rot.

7. Pull shoes from the washer and sit the shoes outside in the sun to dry. Avoiding the dryer will help you avoid the leather cracking commonly seen. Leather shoes that have had too much heat applied to them, are more prone to crack at weak points.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow washing instructions for your shoes if they came with instructions at the time of purchase.