What Washing Machine Setting Should You Use For Your Trainers? (hint: It’s Not What You Think)

Trainers, the epitome of comfort and athleticism, require special care to maintain their performance and aesthetic appeal. Washing them in the wrong washing machine setting can compromise their integrity and reduce their lifespan. This comprehensive guide will delve into the optimal washing machine settings for trainers, ensuring they emerge from the wash cycle as good as new.

Pre-Wash Preparation

Before tossing your trainers into the washing machine, it’s crucial to prepare them for the wash cycle:

• Remove excess dirt and debris: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of your trainers.
• Unlace and remove insoles: Unlace your trainers and remove the insoles to prevent them from getting tangled or lost in the washing machine.
• Treat stains: If your trainers have any stains, pretreat them with a stain remover suitable for the fabric.

Choosing the Right Washing Machine Setting

The ideal washing machine setting for trainers depends on the material they are made of:

• Synthetic trainers: Opt for a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
• Leather trainers: Leather trainers require handwashing or a delicate cycle with cold water and a leather cleaner.
• Mesh trainers: Mesh trainers can withstand a normal cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
• Canvas trainers: Canvas trainers can be washed on a normal cycle with warm water and a mild detergent.

Selecting the Temperature and Detergent

• Temperature: Cold water is generally recommended for trainers to prevent color fading and shrinkage.
• Detergent: Use a mild detergent specifically designed for sportswear or delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach.

Washing Machine Cycle Duration

The duration of the washing cycle should be kept relatively short, typically around 30-45 minutes, to prevent excessive wear and tear on your trainers.

Drying Your Trainers

• Air drying: Air drying is the preferred method for trainers as it prevents shrinkage and damage. Stuff your trainers with newspaper or towels to absorb moisture and place them in a well-ventilated area.
• Tumble drying: If you must use a tumble dryer, choose a low heat setting and use a tennis ball or dryer ball to prevent clumping.

Special Considerations for Different Trainer Materials

• Leather trainers: Handwash or use a delicate cycle with cold water and a leather cleaner. Do not tumble dry.
• Mesh trainers: Mesh trainers can withstand a normal cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
• Canvas trainers: Canvas trainers can be washed on a normal cycle with warm water and a mild detergent. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
• Suede trainers: Suede trainers require special care. Avoid washing them in the washing machine. Instead, use a suede cleaner and brush to remove dirt and stains.

Troubleshooting Common Washing Machine Problems

• Shrinking: If your trainers shrink in the wash, try stretching them back to their original size using a shoe stretcher or by stuffing them with wet newspaper.
• Color fading: To prevent color fading, use cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
• Damage to the washing machine: Trainers can sometimes damage the washing machine if they are not properly secured. Use a mesh laundry bag or tie the laces together to prevent them from getting tangled.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I wash trainers in a regular washing machine?
Yes, most trainers can be washed in a regular washing machine, but it’s important to choose the right settings and detergent.

2. What is the best way to dry trainers?
Air drying is the preferred method, but tumble drying on low heat can also be used.

3. How often should I wash my trainers?
The frequency of washing depends on how often you wear them and the level of activity. Generally, washing them every 2-3 wears or after particularly intense workouts is recommended.

4. Can I wash trainers with other clothes?
It’s generally not recommended to wash trainers with other clothes as they may contain dirt and debris that can transfer to other items.

5. What type of detergent should I use for trainers?
Use a mild detergent specifically designed for sportswear or delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach.