how to wash new balance shoes in washing machine

You know the feeling. You’ve just pulled your favorite pair of New Balance sneakers out of the closet, only to find they’ve picked up the unmistakable aroma of a week’s worth of workouts, or maybe a muddy puddle that seemed like a good idea at the time. They’re your go-to shoes for everything from morning jogs to casual coffee runs, and now they look more like a science experiment than a fashion statement. You might be tempted to toss them in the washing machine and hit start, hoping for the best. But before you do, let’s talk about what actually happens when you take that leap.

Washing New Balance shoes in a machine isn’t just about throwing them in with your jeans and hoping for a miracle. It’s a delicate process that requires understanding the materials, the construction, and the science of cleaning without causing damage. These shoes are engineered for comfort and durability, but they’re not indestructible. The good news is that with the right approach, you can restore them to their former glory without ruining their shape, cushioning, or color. Let’s break it all down step by step, so you can keep your kicks looking fresh and feeling great.

Why Machine Washing Can Be Tricky

At first glance, a washing machine seems like a perfect solution for dirty sneakers. It’s fast, it’s efficient, and it handles tough stains with ease. But here’s the catch: your New Balance shoes are made up of multiple layers and materials, each with its own quirks. The upper might be mesh, leather, or synthetic fabric, while the midsole often contains foam like EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or proprietary cushioning systems like Fresh Foam or ABZORB. The outsole is usually rubber, and the insole is a separate piece that can be removed. When you toss all of that into a machine, the agitation and spin cycle can put stress on the glue holding everything together, warp the foam, or even cause the colors to bleed. It’s not that machine washing is off-limits—it’s that you need to do it smartly.

The principle here is simple: machine washing is a mechanical process that uses water, detergent, and motion to remove dirt. But for shoes, the same motion that cleans can also weaken bonds. The foam midsoles, for example, are porous and can absorb water, which might degrade their cushioning over time if not dried properly. The mesh uppers can snag or stretch if they rub against the drum or other items. And if you use the wrong detergent—say, one with bleach or harsh enzymes—you could fade the colors or break down the fibers. Understanding these risks helps you make informed choices, like when to use a gentle cycle or whether to skip the machine altogether for certain pairs.

Preparing Your Shoes for the Wash

Before you even think about the machine, you need to prep your New Balance shoes like you’re getting them ready for a spa day. Start by removing the laces and insoles. The laces can get tangled or damaged in the wash, and the insoles often have their own foam or gel layers that don’t handle machine agitation well. Wash them separately by hand with mild soap and water, then let them air dry. Next, take a soft brush or an old toothbrush and gently scrub off any loose dirt or mud from the outsole and upper. Pay special attention to the treads, where pebbles and grime love to hide. This step prevents that dirt from turning into a muddy slurry inside your machine.

Now, think about protection. If your shoes have leather or suede accents, machine washing can be risky because water can stain or stiffen those materials. For leather, a damp cloth wipe-down is usually safer. For suede, avoid water entirely and use a suede brush instead. If your shoes are mostly mesh or synthetic fabric, you’re in a better spot. But even then, consider placing them in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase. This acts like a gentle cage, keeping the shoes from banging against the drum and reducing the risk of snags. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Choosing the Right Machine Settings

Your washing machine has a lot of buttons and options, but for New Balance shoes, you want to keep it simple. Set the cycle to delicate or gentle, with cold water. Hot water can shrink or warp materials, especially the foam midsoles, and it can also set stains instead of lifting them. Cold water is your friend here—it’s effective enough for most dirt and much safer for the shoe’s construction. For the spin cycle, choose a low speed. High-speed spins can put too much force on the shoes, potentially damaging the glue or shape. Some machines have a “sneaker” or “hand wash” cycle, which is ideal if available.

Detergent choice matters too. Use a small amount of a mild, liquid detergent—powders can leave residue or not dissolve fully in cold water. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, or stain removers with harsh chemicals. These can break down the shoe’s materials or leave a sticky film. If your shoes are particularly smelly, add a half-cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes odors without damaging fabrics. Don’t worry—the smell disappears after drying. Also, never wash more than two pairs of shoes at a time, and balance the load with a few towels or other soft items to prevent the machine from becoming unbalanced.

Drying: The Critical Step Most People Mess Up

Once the wash cycle is done, resist the urge to throw your shoes in the dryer. Heat from a dryer can shrink the fabric, melt the foam, or warp the shape of the shoe. Instead, air drying is the only safe method. Start by removing the shoes from the machine and gently pressing them with a clean towel to absorb excess water. Don’t wring or twist them—that can deform the structure. Then, stuff the shoes with crumpled newspaper or paper towels. This helps them hold their shape while absorbing moisture from the inside. Replace the paper every few hours until the shoes are mostly dry.

Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators. Sunlight can fade colors, and heat can cause the glue to fail. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a fan to circulate air, but avoid using a hair dryer or placing them near a heater. Drying can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours depending on humidity and shoe thickness. Be patient—rushing this step is the fastest way to ruin a perfectly good pair of sneakers. Once they’re completely dry, reinsert the insoles and laces, and you’re ready to step back into comfort.

When to Skip the Machine Altogether

Not all New Balance shoes are machine-washable. High-end models with premium materials like full-grain leather, suede, or Gore-Tex membranes should be cleaned by hand to avoid damage. For example, the New Balance 990 series, which often features pigskin suede, is better off with spot cleaning using a specialized suede eraser or brush. Similarly, shoes with visible cushioning technology like Fresh Foam X or FuelCell might be more sensitive to machine agitation because the foam is designed for performance, not washing cycles. If your shoe’s care tag says “spot clean only” or you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and hand-wash using a damp cloth and mild soap.

For everyday mesh or knit models like the New Balance 574 or 997H, machine washing is generally fine as long as you follow the steps above. But if you’re dealing with delicate colorways or limited editions, consider the risk of fading or bleeding. A good rule of thumb: if you’d be heartbroken if the shoes got slightly damaged, hand-wash them instead. It takes a bit more effort, but it’s worth preserving your investment.

Practical Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness

To keep your New Balance shoes looking and smelling great between washes, adopt a few simple habits. Always let your shoes air out after wearing them—stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture and prevent odor buildup. Rotate between two pairs if you wear them daily, so each pair has time to dry completely. Use shoe trees or cedar inserts to maintain shape and absorb smells. For minor dirt, wipe the uppers with a damp microfiber cloth immediately after wear, focusing on the mesh areas where dust settles. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, consider wearing moisture-wicking socks to reduce odor transfer to the shoes.

When it comes to buying advice, think about your lifestyle. If you’re a heavy user who runs or walks daily, invest in a shoe cleaner kit with a soft brush and gentle solution—it’s cheaper and safer than frequent machine washes. For casual wearers, a monthly machine wash with proper prep is fine. And if you’re shopping for a new pair, check the materials list: mesh and synthetic uppers are easier to clean than leather or suede. Some models even have removable insoles and washable liners, which is a bonus for maintenance. Ultimately, the best way to wash your New Balance shoes is with care and patience, treating them as the finely tuned tools they are. Your feet will thank you, and your shoes will look like they just came off the shelf.