Which Shoes Are Washable by Water? (Shoe Seller’s Guide)

Introduction

Have you ever stood in front of your shoe rack, holding a dirty pair of sneakers, and wondered:
“Can I just wash these in water, or will I ruin them?”

Trust me, this is one of the most common questions I’ve faced in my 14+ years of footwear store experience. Almost every week, customers walk into the store holding their used shoes and ask me:

  • 👉 “Brother, can I wash these canvas shoes in water?”
  • 👉 “Sir, my son’s school shoes smell bad, can I soak them?”
  • 👉 “I washed my leather shoes once and now they’re cracked—what went wrong?”

The truth is: not all shoes are created equal when it comes to water. Some materials like canvas, mesh, and EVA rubber handle water perfectly. Others—like leather, suede, and nubuck—get permanently damaged if you wash them directly.

From a shoe seller’s perspective, I’ve seen both sides:

  • Customers who carefully washed their sneakers and extended the life of their shoes.
  • Customers who dipped their leather formals in a bucket and came back disappointed with stiff, cracked shoes.

💡 Tip: “If you know which shoes are water-safe and how to wash them properly, your shoes will look fresher, smell better, and last much longer.”

In this guide, I’ll break down:

  • ✅ Which shoes you can safely wash with water.
  • ❌ Which shoes you should never expose to water.
  • 🧼 The correct washing method for water-safe shoes.
  • 💡 Real store-based tips to make your cleaning process easier.

Shoes That Are Washable by Water

Not every shoe will survive a water wash—but some are perfectly safe and even designed to be cleaned this way. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Canvas Shoes 👟

  • Why washable? Canvas is a woven cotton fabric that doesn’t get damaged by water.
  • Best method: Remove laces and insoles, soak in mild soapy water, scrub gently with a soft brush, then air dry.
  • Real Store Experience: Adding baking soda or whitening toothpaste on tough spots works wonders for white canvas shoes.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Never dry canvas shoes under direct sunlight; it can make them stiff and fade color.

2. Fabric & Mesh Sneakers 🏃

  • Why washable? Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying materials that maintain shape easily.
  • Best method: Hand wash is safest. Avoid machine spin unless the brand explicitly allows it.
  • Real Store Experience: Machine washing can weaken glue and damage soles. Cold or lukewarm water works best.

3. Rubber & EVA Sandals / Slippers 🩴

  • Why washable? Waterproof by design.
  • Best method: Scrub with mild soap and rinse; use a toothbrush for holes or grooves.
  • Real Store Experience: Easy rinse after muddy seasons keeps EVA sandals looking like new.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Do not soak in detergent water for hours—it can reduce flexibility.

4. Kids’ School Shoes (Synthetic) 🎒

  • Why washable? PU or synthetic leather resists water better than genuine leather.
  • Best method: Wipe daily dirt with a damp cloth; quick wash with mild soap for stains.
  • Real Store Experience: Synthetic shoes survive daily washing better than genuine leather.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Dry in shade to avoid cracking from heat.

5. Sports Sandals & Aqua Shoes 🌊

  • Why washable? Fabric straps and rubber soles are water-resistant.
  • Best method: Rinse after every use to prevent odor and bacteria buildup.
  • Real Store Experience: Muddy trekking or beach sandals look nearly brand new after just a rinse.

✅ Summary of Water-Washable Shoes:

  • Canvas shoes
  • Mesh/fabric sneakers
  • Rubber/EVA sandals & slippers
  • Synthetic school shoes
  • Sports sandals & aqua shoes

Shoes That Are NOT Washable by Water

Exposing the wrong shoes to water can ruin them permanently. Avoid washing these categories:

1. Genuine Leather Shoes 👞

  • Why not washable? Absorbs water, becomes stiff, brittle, and cracks; polish fades.
  • Best method: Wipe with damp cloth, use leather cleaner or polish.
  • Real Store Experience: Leather shoes soaked in rain often become wrinkled and cracked.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: If wet, stuff with newspaper and let dry naturally; never wash with water.

2. Suede & Nubuck Shoes 👢

  • Why not washable? Delicate and porous; water leaves stains and patches.
  • Best method: Use suede brush, eraser, and protective spray.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Avoid water completely—dry cleaning only.

3. Dress/Formal Shoes with Glue-Based Soles 🎩

  • Why not washable? Glue weakens in water, causing soles to separate.
  • Best method: Soft cloth with mild cleaner or alcohol-based wipes.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Always dry clean—never expose to water.

4. Designer & Fashion Shoes with Decorations 👠

  • Why not washable? Glued rhinestones, sequins, beads, or embroidery get damaged.
  • Best method: Spot clean with damp cloth; avoid soaking.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Water is a guarantee for damage.

5. Heavy Boots (Leather Work Boots, Hiking Boots) 🥾

  • Why not washable? Leather or nubuck absorbs water, damaging lining and structure.
  • Best method: Wipe with damp cloth and specialized cleaning products.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Never dip steel-toe safety boots in water.

❌ Summary of Non-Washable Shoes:

  • Genuine leather shoes
  • Suede & nubuck shoes
  • Dress/formal shoes with glue soles
  • Designer & decorated shoes
  • Heavy leather or nubuck boots

How to Wash Water-Safe Shoes Properly

Now that you know which shoes can be safely washed with water, the next big question is:

“What’s the right way to wash them without damaging the material or sole?”

Over my years in the shoe business, I’ve seen many customers make mistakes—like using boiling water, strong bleach, or even hairdryers—that ended up ruining their shoes. To save you from those costly errors, here’s the correct and safe washing process:

Step 1: Prepare Your Shoes

  • Remove laces and insoles first.
  • Laces can be washed separately in soapy water. Insoles should be wiped and air-dried, not soaked (to avoid odor or shape loss).
  • Shake off any loose dirt or mud before washing.
  • 👉 Store Tip: Many customers complained about smelly shoes even after washing—turns out they didn’t remove the insoles. Always take them out!

Step 2: Use Mild Soap or Detergent

  • Avoid harsh bleach or strong laundry detergents; they can fade color and weaken glue.
  • Mix a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with lukewarm water.
  • 👉 Store Tip: Baking soda mixed with detergent works wonders for white canvas shoes.

Step 3: Hand Wash Gently

  • Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to scrub dirt.
  • Focus on stained areas—don’t be too rough, especially on fabric sneakers.
  • For rubber slippers, scrubbing is easier, but don’t over-bend them.
  • 👉 Store Tip: A customer once used a wire brush on canvas sneakers—result: fabric torn. Always use a soft brush.

Step 4: Rinse Lightly

  • Rinse shoes under running water or with a damp cloth.
  • Avoid soaking shoes in water for too long—it weakens the glue holding the sole.
  • 👉 Store Tip: I’ve seen soles of running shoes come off because people left them in water overnight. Never soak!

Step 5: Dry Correctly

  • Stuff shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture and keep shape.
  • Dry in a shaded, airy place—never under direct sunlight or with a dryer.
  • For sneakers, it usually takes 12–24 hours to fully dry.
  • 👉 Store Tip: One customer dried sneakers under direct sunlight, and the fabric color faded. Always choose shade.

Quick Dos & Don’ts Recap

  • ✅ Do: Hand wash, use mild detergent, air dry in shade.
  • ❌ Don’t: Soak too long, use hot water, bleach, or hairdryer.

Pro Tips From Real Store Experience

The difference between shoes that last one season and shoes that last for years often comes down to how people clean them. Here are my tried-and-tested pro tips:

4.1 For Sneaker Lovers 👟

  • Wash fabric or canvas sneakers every 2–3 weeks if worn daily.
  • Use toothpaste or baking soda for stubborn stains—works especially well on white shoes.
  • Keep an extra pair to rotate and avoid over-washing one pair.
  • 👉 Store Note: One regular customer followed this routine and said his sneakers stayed fresh for more than two years!

4.2 For Canvas Shoe Users 🎨

  • Add a few drops of white vinegar in the washing water to remove odor.
  • If yellow stains appear after drying, re-wash lightly with baking soda paste.
  • Never put canvas shoes in a dryer; it makes them shrink.
  • 👉 Store Note: A student once ruined his favorite pair by putting them in the dryer—only natural air drying works.

4.3 For Kids’ School Shoes 🎒

  • Teach kids to wipe dirt daily with a damp cloth before it hardens.
  • Weekly quick washes keep them odor-free.
  • Choose synthetic school shoes over leather for easier maintenance.
  • 👉 Store Note: Parents saved money because synthetic shoes lasted longer with less maintenance.

4.4 For Travelers & Outdoor Users 🌍

  • Always carry travel-size wet wipes or a small shoe brush.
  • If shoes get wet in rain or trekking, stuff them with newspaper immediately.
  • Sports sandals and aqua shoes should be rinsed after every beach or hiking trip.
  • 👉 Store Note: Backpackers loved the newspaper trick—it helps dry shoes faster on the go.

4.5 For Odor Control 👃

  • Sprinkle a little baking soda inside shoes after washing to absorb leftover moisture and odor.
  • Never wear damp shoes; it causes bacteria and smell.
  • 👉 Store Note: This simple tip solved smelly shoe problems for many customers.

✅ Takeaway: These small tricks may sound simple, but they make a huge difference in shoe lifespan, comfort, and freshness. Customers who followed them always came back happy—and with cleaner shoes.

Popular Shoe Washing Materials Available in the Market

When it comes to keeping your shoes clean, the right cleaning materials make all the difference. From my years of shoe store experience, here are the most commonly available and effective shoe washing products in the market:

6.1 Mild Detergents / Liquid Soap

  • Use: Safe for canvas, mesh, fabric, and synthetic shoes.
  • Why: Gentle cleaning without fading color or weakening glue.
  • Tip from Store: Avoid strong laundry detergents or bleach; they can ruin shoes quickly.

6.2 Soft Bristle Brushes & Toothbrushes

  • Use: Remove dirt, stains, and mud from soles and fabric surfaces.
  • Why: Soft bristles clean without damaging threads or seams.
  • Tip from Store: Keep a separate brush for white shoes to avoid discoloration.

6.3 Baking Soda

  • Use: Whitening canvas shoes, removing odor.
  • Why: Gentle, natural cleaner for tough stains and bad smells.
  • Tip from Store: Mix with mild detergent for best results on white sneakers.

6.4 White Vinegar

  • Use: Removes odor and disinfects shoes.
  • Why: Works especially well on canvas and synthetic shoes.
  • Tip from Store: Add a few drops to the washing water; do not pour undiluted vinegar directly.

6.5 Shoe Cleaning Wipes

  • Use: Quick cleaning for on-the-go or travel.
  • Why: Portable, handy, and effective for light dirt.
  • Tip from Store: Always carry for kids’ shoes or travel sneakers.

6.6 Suede & Nubuck Brushes / Erasers

  • Use: Cleaning suede or nubuck shoes without water.
  • Why: Specially designed to remove dirt and maintain soft texture.
  • Tip from Store: Never use water on suede—always stick to dry cleaning products.

6.7 Insoles & Laces Cleaning Products

  • Use: Mild detergents, brushes, or soapy water for laces and insoles.
  • Why: Helps remove sweat, dirt, and odor.
  • Tip from Store: Always remove insoles and laces before washing the main shoe body.

6.8 Shoe Drying Accessories

  • Use: Shoe trees, newspaper stuffing, or breathable shoe bags.
  • Why: Maintains shape while drying and speeds up moisture absorption.
  • Tip from Store: Avoid direct heat or sunlight. Newspaper or shoe trees work best.

💡 Pro Tip: Using proper cleaning materials not only keeps your shoes looking fresh but also extends their life significantly. In my store experience, customers who invested in these materials saved hundreds of dollars over the years.

Conclusion

Not every shoe can handle water, but knowing the difference between washable shoes and non-washable shoes is the key to keeping your footwear fresh and long-lasting.

✔ Shoes You Can Wash With Water:

  • Canvas shoes
  • Fabric/mesh sneakers
  • Rubber & EVA sandals/slippers
  • Synthetic school shoes
  • Sports sandals & aqua shoes

❌ Shoes You Should Never Wash With Water:

  • Genuine leather shoes
  • Suede & nubuck shoes
  • Dress/formal shoes with glue-based soles
  • Designer or decorated shoes
  • Heavy leather/nubuck boots

When it comes to cleaning, always remember:

  • 👉 Hand wash gently, use mild detergent, rinse lightly, and dry in the shade.
  • 👉 Avoid hot water, bleach, soaking overnight, or drying in direct sunlight.

💡 Shoe Seller’s Insight: Customers who take just a little care while washing end up saving money, keeping their shoes odor-free, and enjoying them for years longer. Before you wash your next pair, ask yourself:

“Is this shoe really water-washable?”

If yes—follow the proper steps. If not—stick to dry cleaning methods. Your shoes are an investment, and with the right cleaning method, you’ll keep them looking sharp, smelling fresh, and feeling comfortable every single day.

FAQ: Which Shoes Are Washable by Water 💦

1. Can I wash leather shoes in water?

No, genuine leather shoes should never be washed in water. Use a damp cloth, leather cleaner, or polish to clean them.

2. Are canvas shoes safe to wash with water?

Yes, canvas shoes are 100% water-safe. Hand wash gently with mild soap and air dry in shade.

3. Can I put sneakers in the washing machine?

Some fabric or mesh sneakers are machine-washable, but hand washing is always safer to avoid sole or glue damage.

4. How should I wash kids’ school shoes?

Remove insoles and laces, wipe with damp cloth or mild soap, rinse lightly, and air dry in shade. Synthetic shoes are preferred for durability.

5. Are rubber or EVA sandals washable?

Yes, rubber and EVA slippers, flip-flops, and Crocs-type sandals are fully water-safe and easy to rinse.

6. Can suede shoes be washed in water?

No, suede and nubuck are very delicate. Use a suede brush, eraser, or dry cleaning products.

7. How do I prevent odor in washable shoes?

After washing, stuff shoes with newspaper, dry in shade, and sprinkle a little baking soda inside to absorb moisture and odor.

8. How often should I wash my sneakers?

If worn daily, wash every 2–3 weeks. Always hand wash and rotate pairs to avoid over-washing one shoe.

9. Can fashion or designer shoes be washed?

No, shoes with rhinestones, sequins, or decorative glue should never be soaked in water. Spot clean only.

10. Can heavy hiking or work boots be washed in water?

No, leather or nubuck boots should never be soaked. Clean with a damp cloth, brush, or specialized cleaner.

11. Is it safe to dry shoes under sunlight?

No, direct sunlight can fade colors, stiffen fabrics, and damage glue. Always dry shoes in a shaded, airy place.

12. What cleaning products are safe for water-washable shoes?

Use mild detergents, soft brushes, toothpaste for tough stains on canvas, or baking soda paste for whitening. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals.