Converse shoes have been a timeless staple in everyday footwear for decades. However, frequent use naturally leads to dirt buildup, stains, and unpleasant odors, leaving many owners wondering how to clean them safely without ruining their structure. This leads to one very specific and common concern: what temperature to wash Converse in washing machine without damaging them.
Washing them incorrectly—especially at high temperatures—can cause shrinking, sole separation, color fading, or permanent deformation. To safely clean Converse shoes in a washing machine, use 30–40°C (86–104°F) on a gentle cycle. This temperature removes dirt effectively without damaging the rubber sole, canvas fabric, or internal glue.
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact washing temperature, the best machine settings, how to prepare your Converse properly, and what mistakes to avoid. Everything is explained clearly so you can clean your shoes confidently and extend their lifespan.
Why Washing Temperature Matters for Converse Shoes
Before setting your washing machine, it’s important to understand how Converse shoes are constructed. Most Converse sneakers are made from canvas fabric, rubber soles, and adhesive bonding. While these materials are durable for daily wear, they are sensitive to heat during washing.
Hot water can weaken the glue that holds the sole to the canvas, soften rubber edges, and distort the shoe’s original shape. On the other hand, extremely cold water may not fully remove dirt, oils, or odor-causing bacteria. The goal is to strike a balance—effective cleaning without material stress.
What Temperature To Wash Converse in Washing Machine?
Experts and footwear care professionals agree that 30–40 degrees Celsius is the ideal temperature range for washing Converse shoes in a washing machine.
This lukewarm range provides enough cleaning power to loosen grime and sweat while keeping the rubber sole intact and the canvas fibers stable. Washing above this range increases the risk of sole separation, fading, and shrinkage.
If your Converse are lightly dirty, closer to 30°C is ideal. For heavily soiled shoes, 40°C is still safe when combined with a gentle cycle and mild detergent.
Choosing the Right Washing Machine Type
Front-Load vs Top-Load Washing Machines
The type of washing machine you use plays a major role in how safely your Converse are cleaned.
Front-load washing machines are strongly recommended. They use a tumbling motion instead of aggressive spinning, which reduces impact stress on the shoes. This gentler movement preserves shape and minimizes sole damage.
Top-load washing machines can still be used, but extra precautions are necessary. Their central agitators can cause shoes to bang against the drum, leading to dents, fraying, or tearing. If using a top-load washer, placing your Converse inside a thick laundry bag is essential.
Preparation Before Washing Converse
Proper preparation significantly reduces the risk of damage during washing.
Step-by-Step Shoe Preparation
- Start by removing the laces to prevent tangling and uneven cleaning. Laces can be washed separately in a mesh bag.
- Next, take out the insoles. Insoles absorb sweat and water easily and may warp or deteriorate if machine-washed. Hand washing them separately is safer.
- Before placing the shoes in the washer, use a soft brush or dry cloth to remove loose dirt, dried mud, or debris. This prevents excess grime from spreading during the wash cycle.
- Finally, place the shoes inside a laundry bag or pillowcase. This acts as a protective barrier between the shoes and the drum, reducing impact and friction.
Which Setting Is Best for Washing Shoes?
For both US and UK washing machines, the safest option is a gentle or delicate wash cycle. These settings use slower drum movement and reduced spin speed, minimizing stress on the shoe’s structure.
Avoid settings such as:
- Heavy-duty
- Cotton
- Fast spin
- Sanitize or hot wash
These cycles are designed for thick garments and can damage sneakers during repeated impact.
Is a 40 Minute Wash Enough?
Yes, a 40-minute gentle wash is generally sufficient for cleaning Converse shoes effectively. Shorter cycles reduce prolonged exposure to water and friction, which helps preserve glue integrity and canvas strength. Longer wash cycles do not necessarily improve cleanliness and may increase the risk of wear. If shoes are extremely dirty, it’s better to pre-clean stains manually rather than extending the machine wash time.
Can I Wash Shoes in 60 Degrees?
Washing Converse at 60 degrees Celsius is not recommended. This temperature is considered too hot for canvas and rubber footwear. At 60°C, rubber soles may soften, adhesives can weaken, and canvas fabric may shrink or lose its original texture. Even a single hot wash can permanently affect the shoe’s appearance and comfort. To preserve your Converse, always stay within the 30–40°C range.
Is 40 Degrees Too Hot for Washing?
No, 40 degrees is not too hot when washing Converse—provided you use a gentle cycle and mild detergent. It represents the upper safe limit and works well for removing sweat buildup and stubborn dirt without damaging the shoe. However, if your Converse are brightly colored or prone to dye bleeding, reducing the temperature slightly can help maintain color vibrancy.
Choosing the Right Detergent for Converse Shoes
After placing the shoes in the machine, you must choose a detergent. Ensure you select a mild detergent to wash the shoes, or consider one of the following shoe cleaners:
- Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner
- Reshoevn8r Shoe Cleaner
- Angelus Easy Cleaner
- Kiwi Shoe Cleaner
- Cadillac Select Premium Shoe Cleaner
- ShoeAnew Foam Shoe Cleaner
- Soft Sole Instant Cleaner
- Meltonian All-Purpose Cleaner
- Tarrago Shoe Cream
- Collonil Leather Gel
Cleaning Mode Based on Shoe Condition
Not all Converse shoes require the same washing approach. For lightly worn or lightly stained shoes, a low-spin gentle cycle at 30°C is more than enough. For heavily soiled shoes, 40°C with gentle agitation is safe and effective. Avoid increasing spin speed to compensate, as mechanical stress can be more damaging than dirt itself. If your Converse show signs of color bleeding, lowering the temperature slightly helps protect the dye.
Drying Converse After Machine Washing
Drying is where many people accidentally ruin their shoes. Never place Converse shoes in a machine dryer. High heat can shrink the canvas, crack rubber, and weaken glue bonds beyond repair.
Instead, allow your shoes to air dry at room temperature. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors and stiffen fabric. To help shoes retain their shape, stuff them lightly with paper towels or a dry cloth while drying.
Additional Tips to Protect Your Converse
- Always wash Converse separately from heavy clothing like jeans or towels. These items increase impact force during spinning.
- Avoid fabric softeners, as they leave residues that attract dirt.
- Never use bleach, even on white Converse, as it can cause yellowing over time.
- For leather Converse variants, avoid machine washing entirely and opt for gentle hand cleaning instead.
People Also Ask
Is it possible to wash leather Converse in the washing machine?
No. Leather material is highly sensitive to water and agitation. Machine washing can cause cracking and stiffness. Hand cleaning with a damp cloth is the safest option.
Can I wash colored Converse shoes in a washing machine?
Yes, colored Converse can be machine washed safely using mild detergent and controlled temperatures. Washing them inside a laundry bag helps prevent color fading.
How much time does the machine consume while washing Converse?
Most gentle cycles last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the washing machine model. Shorter cycles are preferable for preserving shoe quality.
People Also Ask
Is a 40 minute wash enough?
Yes, a 40-minute gentle wash cycle is sufficient for cleaning Converse shoes. Longer cycles do not significantly improve cleanliness and may increase wear on the sole and stitching.
Can I wash shoes in 60 degrees?
No. Washing Converse at 60°C (140°F) is too hot and can permanently damage the rubber sole and adhesive bonding. This temperature is not recommended for canvas sneakers.
Is 40 degrees too hot for washing?
No. 40°C (104°F) is safe for Converse shoes when used with a mild detergent and a delicate cycle. It is the upper safe limit for machine washing.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what temperature to wash Converse in washing machine is essential for preserving both comfort and durability. When washed correctly—using 30–40°C (86–104°F), a gentle cycle, and proper drying methods—Converse shoes can be safely refreshed without compromising their structure.
Consistent care not only keeps your sneakers looking clean but also extends their lifespan, making machine washing a safe and practical option when done the right way.