Ever looked down at your favorite pair of TOMS and wondered if the washing machine could rescue them from dirt and stains? You’re not alone! With their comfy fit and daily wear, TOMS can get grimy fast, leaving many owners curious about the safest cleaning method.
Knowing whether you can toss TOMS in the wash is crucial to keeping them looking—and feeling—great. In this article, we’ll answer this common question and share step-by-step cleaning tips to help your shoes last longer and stay fresh.
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Can You Wash TOMS Shoes in the Washing Machine?
TOMS shoes are beloved for their comfort, style, and eco-friendly appeal. But, like any pair of shoes, they eventually face spills, dirt, or just everyday grime. One question many TOMS owners ask is: Can you wash TOMS shoes in the washing machine? Let’s dive into the answer and give you everything you need to know for keeping your TOMS looking as fresh as the day you got them.
Are TOMS Machine Washable? The Short Answer
Generally speaking, most classic TOMS (especially canvas varieties) can be washed in the washing machine, but it’s not always the best method for every pair. While machine washing is convenient, it does come with some risks, such as warping the shape or affecting delicate decorations and materials.
If you decide to go this route, you need to follow specific steps and precautions to ensure your beloved shoes survive unharmed. For delicate, leather, suede, or heavily decorated TOMS, hand-washing is almost always the safer choice.
The Right Way to Machine Wash Your TOMS
If your TOMS are canvas, free from embellishments, and the care label or brand guidelines don’t explicitly warn against it, machine washing can be a viable option. Here’s how to get it right:
1. Preparation is Key
Before tossing your shoes in the machine, follow these preparation steps:
- Check the Material: Ensure your TOMS are made from canvas or cotton. Leather, suede, or sequined options should never be machine washed.
- Remove Excess Dirt: Gently shake off loose dirt and use a soft brush or cloth to wipe away mud or debris.
- Take Out the Insoles and Laces: If your TOMS have removable insoles or laces, take them out. Wash them separately by hand.
- Use a Mesh Bag or Pillowcase: Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or an old pillowcase. This protects the fabric and reduces banging against the machine drum.
2. Choose the Right Settings
When loading your machine:
- Cold Water Only: Use cold water to prevent shrinking or color fading.
- Gentle/Delicate Cycle: The most gentle wash setting is best to avoid rough agitation.
- Mild Detergent: Choose a small amount of a gentle, non-bleaching detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach.
3. During the Wash
- Add a few towels to the load. They cushion the shoes and lower the risk of them banging around.
- Do not use the spin cycle if your machine has an especially aggressive one; opt for minimal spin if possible.
4. Drying—Absolutely No Heat!
This is a crucial step—never dry TOMS in a dryer!
- Air Dry Only: Remove your shoes from the mesh bag and stuff them with paper towels or clean rags to help retain their shape.
- Keep Away From Direct Sunlight: Air dry them indoors, in a ventilated area, out of direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent fading and shrinking.
- Repeat Stuffing if Needed: As they dry, change the stuffing if it becomes damp to maintain shape.
Pros and Cons of Machine Washing TOMS
Let’s break down the benefits and challenges of cleaning your TOMS in the washing machine:
Benefits
- Convenience: Quick and less labor-intensive than hand-washing.
- Effective at Removing Surface Dirt: Cleans evenly, especially for simple stains.
- Great for Heavily Soiled Shoes: If your shoes are really dirty, the machine may be more effective.
Challenges
- Risk of Shape Loss: The agitation and water exposure can cause your TOMS to lose their original structure.
- Potential for Color Fading: Even on cold and gentle settings, repeated washing can dull vibrant colors.
- Damage to Embellishments: Sequins, embroidery, or special prints may fray or loosen.
- Shrinkage: Excessive heat or incorrect washing settings can shrink your shoes.
- Not Suitable for All Materials: Leather, suede, and some limited edition TOMS should never go in the machine.
Hand-Washing: The Safer Alternative
If you’re concerned about keeping your TOMS pristine or own a more delicate pair, hand-washing is an excellent alternative.
How to Hand-Wash Your TOMS
- Prepare a Soapy Solution
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Fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
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Scrub Gently
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Use a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the surface and soles.
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Rinse Carefully
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Wipe your shoes with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
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Stuff and Air Dry
- As with machine washing, stuff shoes and allow them to air dry in a cool, ventilated area.
Best Practices and Practical Tips
Keep your TOMS in top shape with these helpful hints:
- Spot Clean Often: Address stains quickly with a damp cloth and mild soap to avoid full washes.
- Avoid Submerging: Don’t soak your shoes entirely, especially if washing by hand—this prevents glue from loosening.
- Do Not Use Harsh Chemicals: Bleach or rough detergents can ruin fabric and color.
- Maintain Shape: Always stuff your shoes while drying to avoid curling or wrinkling.
- Wash Soles Separately: For extra dirty soles, use an old toothbrush and a paste of baking soda and water.
- Leather or Suede Care: Use products specially designed for those materials—never water.
Cleaning Special Editions and Delicate TOMS
If you own TOMS with:
- Embellishments: Avoid machine washing entirely; hand-wash only and use extra caution.
- Prints or Custom Artwork: Test a small, hidden area first to check for colorfastness.
- Expensive or Collector Pairs: When in doubt, choose professional cleaning or consult TOMS’s care guide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Save yourself stress by steering clear of these common errors:
- Skipping the Preparation: Tossing dirty shoes straight in leads to permanent stains.
- Using Hot Water: This shrinks and warps shoes.
- Forgetting to Dry Properly: Air drying is a must—machines or direct sunlight spell trouble.
- Neglecting to Read Labels: Always check the care tag inside your shoes for any specific warnings.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can wash most classic canvas TOMS shoes in a washing machine, but you need to follow recommended precautions to avoid damage and prolong their life. Hand-washing remains the gold standard for protecting shoe fabric, structure, and any unique details. Whichever method you choose, proper drying, gentle products, and regular spot cleaning will keep your TOMS looking stylish and fresh for many adventures to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can all TOMS shoes be machine washed?
Not all TOMS shoes are suitable for machine washing. Canvas or cotton TOMS usually handle the machine well, while leather, suede, sequins, or heavily decorated versions should always be hand-washed or professionally cleaned to avoid damage.
2. What temperature should I use to wash my TOMS?
Always use cold water. Hot water can cause your shoes to shrink, warp, or fade in color.
3. How should I dry my TOMS after washing?
Never use a dryer or place shoes in direct sunlight. Stuff them with paper towels or clean rags and air dry indoors in a well-ventilated area. Replace stuffing as it dampens to help your shoes retain their shape.
4. How often should I wash my TOMS shoes?
Wash your TOMS only when visibly dirty or after several wears. Frequent washing can reduce their lifespan and vibrancy. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth is often sufficient for minor stains.
5. What if my TOMS lose shape after washing?
If your TOMS lose their shape, stuff them with clean rags or towels immediately after washing and let them dry fully. Sometimes a second stuffing during the drying process helps restore their look. If shrinkage or heavy distortion occurs, it may be difficult to correct entirely, reinforcing the importance of proper washing methods.