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The Complete Washing Guide for Wool Shoes & Sneakers
January 29, 2024
-
By
Sophia Grant
Wool is highly versatile and can be used to make a variety of products from rugs to skirts.
Not only that but the fibers are also wrinkle-resistant and stretch-resistant. They also resist wear and tear and retain their shape even after washing.
Wool Fibers For Shoes
Wool is commonly used for clothes but did you know that it can also be used for shoes?
In fact, wool has several benefits when it comes to footwear. For one thing, it has insulating properties that will help regulate the wearer’s body temperature. Not only that but they are also easier to wash compared to traditional shoes.
Plus, they won’t get as stinky; this has to do with the fact that wool fibers absorb and lock away odors, which are released during washing.
And for those who don’t like wearing socks, you’ll be happy to know that you don’t have to wear them with wool shoes.
Popular Brands of Wool Sneakers
Here are some of the most popular brands that sell wool footwear:
Allbirds
Allbirds is a U.S. company that specializes in wool footwear. They sell a variety of styles including toppers, runners, skippers, and loungers for men and women.
As of 2024 they have retail stores in Shanghai, New York, Beijing, San Francisco, Seattle, and London.
Mahabis
Mahabis is a brand that’s based in London. Most if not all of their shoes are made in a Scandinavian style, which is both stylish and practical.
To date, they’ve sold more than 1 million pairs of slippers around the world.
Giesswein
Giesswein is known for its 100% merino wool shoes and accessories. In addition to shoes, they also sell footbeds and accessories such as hats.
How to Wash Wool Shoes Properly
Wool slippers and shoes can be machine washed – there are just a few steps that you have to take.
Machine Wash Wool Slippers and Shoes
For starters, be sure to wash the shoes by themselves. You don’t want to mix them with your other laundry.
Step 1: Prepare the Shoes
If you’re washing sneakers, remove the shoelaces so that you can wash them separately. Wool insoles should also be taken out, if there’s one.
Step 2: Use a Laundry Bag
Place the shoes in their own mesh laundry bag and place them in the washing machine. Do the same for the laces and insoles.
You can throw in a few towels to help balance the load.
Step 3: Add Detergent
Once everything is in, add a mild detergent – we recommend using one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent.
Step 4: Run a Wash Cycle
Select a wool cycle and run a cold water cycle. Do not use hot water – excessive heat can cause wool fibers to contract and shrink.
Once the cycle is finished, allow them to air dry.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Towels
- Laundry bag
Skip the fabric conditioner – it will work against the wool’s moisture-wicking abilities.
ACTIVE Detergent
Removes sweat and body oils from wool shoes to deodorize and refresh.
Hand Wash Wool Slippers and Shoes
Wool footwear can also be washed by hand. Here’s how to do it.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Soft bristle brush
Step 1:
Fill a tub with cool water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent. Dissolve the powder by swirling your hand in the water.
Step 2:
Next, prepare your shoes. If there’s excess dirt on the fabric, it might be a good idea to clean it with a soft brush first before washing.
Step 3:
Take out the shoelaces and insoles and place them in the soapy solution.
Do the same with the shoes, ensuring that they are completely immersed in the mixture. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4:
Take the shoes out of the dirty water and rinse them under the faucet. Continue until all the soap residue is washed off.
Do the same thing with the insoles and laces.
Step 5:
Place everything in a well-ventilated room and allow them to air dry.
Put the laces and insoles back on the shoes once they’re fully dry.
The Best Ways to Deodorize Wool Shoes/Sneakers
Wool shoes are naturally odor-resistant but like all shoes, they can develop a smell after a while. Here are some ways to eliminate the odor:
Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the best things to use when it comes to odors. It’s super easy to use too.
Supplies:
- Baking soda
- Soft bristle brush (optional)
Step 1:
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda into the shoes and leave the powder in for several hours (overnight, if they are excessively stinky).
Step 2:
Remove the baking soda from the shoes. If necessary, you can use a soft bristle brush to remove the leftover powder.
Using Dryer Sheets
Fabric softener sheets can also be used to remove odors.
Supplies:
- Dryer sheets
Step 1:
Place one dryer sheet into each shoe. They will automatically neutralize the smell.
Step 2:
For the best results, leave the sheets in for several hours before taking them out.
Using Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is great because it can kill odor-causing bacteria, leaving your shoes smelling fresh and clean.
Supplies:
- Rubbing alcohol
- Clean cloth
Step 1:
Dampen a cloth with the rubbing alcohol solution.
Step 2:
Use the damp cloth to wipe the inside of the shoes. Pay extra attention to the toe and heel areas.
Using White Vinegar
White vinegar is another great deodorizing agent that most people already have at home.
Supplies:
- White vinegar
- Clean cloth
- Newspaper (optional)
Step 1:
Dampen a clean cloth with white vinegar and use it to wipe the inside of each shoe.
Step 2:
If necessary, you can stuff the shoes with newspaper to hasten the drying process.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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