No you shouldn’t put leather shoes in a washer.
Let’s take a look at the facts and risks associated with putting leather shoes in the washer.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Leather Shoes in the Washer
The most important reason to avoid putting leather shoes in the washer is because the materials used to make them are not designed to withstand water and a spin cycle.
Leather is incredibly porous meaning that it can absorb water which can cause it to become discolored or even disfigured.
The same goes for the stitching and soles which may not be able to handle the vigorous motion of the washer.
Will the Washer Damage Your Shoes?
The chances are that your leather shoes will suffer some sort of damage if you put them in the washer.
That being said it’s not impossible to get lucky and have your shoes come out unscathed.
It just depends on the quality and condition of the leather and the washer itself.
It’s also important to note that putting leather shoes in the washer can void the warranty in some cases.
So it’s best to check with the manufacturer before taking the risk.
Is Handwashing a Better Option?
Yes handwashing is always the better option when it comes to cleaning leather shoes.
It is much gentler on the material and you can use a special leather cleaner to get a better result.
You can also use a soft brush to scrub the dirt and grime off the leather.
How to Handwash Leather Shoes
Handwashing is the best way to clean your leather shoes.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Start by brushing away any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoes with a soft brush.
- Create a solution of one part mild soap and two parts warm water.
- Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the leather surface.
- Rinse with a clean wet cloth and repeat if necessary.
- Wipe with a dry cloth and allow the shoes to air dry.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that you should never put leather shoes in the washer.
The risk of damaging the material is too great and there’s always the possibility of voiding the warranty.
However if you do decide to take the risk make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the gentlest cycle possible.
At the end of the day the best way to keep your leather shoes clean is to handwash them with a special leather cleaner.
It’s much gentler on the material and you can be sure that it won’t get damaged.
So if you want to keep your leather shoes in good condition it’s best to avoid putting them in the washer.
Leather shoes are a great investment but they require special care to keep them looking their best.
To preserve the quality of your shoes it’s best to avoid putting them in the washer.
Instead take the time to handwash them gently with a mild soap solution.
Doing so will ensure your shoes look their best for years to come.