Climbing shoes get dirty and smelly after lots of use. Sweat, chalk, and dirt build up inside them over time. Many climbers wonder if tossing them in the washing machine is a safe way to clean them.
Most climbing shoe manufacturers do not recommend putting climbing shoes in the washing machine because it can damage the glue, rubber, and shape of the shoes. The machine’s spinning and heat can break down the adhesives that hold the shoe together. It can also warp the rubber sole and change how the shoe fits.
There are better ways to clean climbing shoes that work well without risking damage. Hand washing with mild soap and water is safer and still gets rid of most dirt and odors. This article explains the risks of machine washing and shares the best methods to keep climbing shoes clean and in good condition.
Key Takeaways
- Machine washing climbing shoes can damage the glue, rubber, and overall structure of the shoes
- Hand washing with mild soap and water is the safest cleaning method for climbing shoes
- Proper cleaning techniques help remove odors and dirt while keeping shoes in good condition
Can You Put Climbing Shoes In The Washing Machine?
Most climbing shoes can go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water, but hand washing is safer for extending their lifespan. The material type and construction method affect how well shoes handle machine washing.
Machine Washing Versus Hand Washing Climbing Shoes
Machine washing climbing shoes offers convenience but comes with risks. The agitation and spinning can damage the glue that holds the sole to the upper, potentially causing delamination. Hand washing gives climbers more control over the cleaning process and reduces stress on the shoe’s construction.
Hand washing takes more time but protects the investment. A soft brush, mild soap, and lukewarm water work well for most climbing shoes. The gentler approach helps preserve the rubber and prevents the materials from breaking down too quickly.
For climbers who choose machine washing, the trade-off is speed versus potential damage. Shoes with heavily worn rubber or visible separation should never go in the machine. Hand washing remains the recommended method for expensive or competition-grade shoes.
Understanding Climbing Shoe Materials: Synthetic vs. Leather
Synthetic climbing shoes handle machine washing better than leather ones. Materials like synthetic leather and mesh dry faster and maintain their shape more consistently. These shoes resist water damage and typically bounce back after washing.
Leather climbing shoes require more careful treatment. Unlined leather can stretch when wet and may not return to its original fit. Lined leather offers more stability but still needs gentle handling to prevent permanent stretching or shape loss.
The rubber sole remains the most vulnerable part regardless of upper material. Heat and harsh agitation can separate the rand from the sole or damage the adhesive. Both synthetic and leather shoes need cold water and gentle cycles if machine washing.
Preparing Climbing Shoes For The Washing Machine
Remove laces and insoles before washing climbing shoes. Laces can tangle around other items or the agitator, while insoles wash better separately and dry more thoroughly. This step prevents damage and ensures a more effective clean.
Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This protective barrier reduces direct impact against the drum walls and other items. It also keeps small parts together if any hardware comes loose during the cycle.
Check shoes for major damage before washing. Loose soles, separated rand, or torn uppers can worsen in the machine. Spot-treat heavily soiled areas with a soft brush and mild detergent before machine washing for best results.
Washing Machine Settings And Detergents For Climbing Shoes
Use cold water on the gentlest cycle available. Hot water can melt adhesives and damage rubber compounds. The delicate or hand-wash setting provides enough agitation to clean without excessive stress on the shoe construction.
Choose a mild detergent without bleach or harsh chemicals. Sport-specific detergents work well, but regular mild soap is sufficient. Use half the normal amount of detergent since climbing shoes are small and don’t need excessive suds.
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | Cold only |
| Cycle Type | Delicate/Hand wash |
| Spin Speed | Low or no spin |
| Detergent Amount | Half the normal dose |
Skip the spin cycle or use the lowest speed. High-speed spinning throws shoes against the drum with significant force. Air drying works better anyway, so removing excess water through spinning isn’t necessary.
Aftercare: Drying And Maintaining Climbing Shoes
Never put climbing shoes in the dryer. The heat destroys rubber, melts glue, and warps the shoe shape permanently. Air drying is the only safe method for drying climbing shoes after washing.
Stuff shoes with newspaper or paper towels to maintain shape while drying. Change the paper every few hours as it absorbs moisture. This speeds up drying time and prevents the shoes from curling or collapsing.
Place shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Sunlight can degrade rubber over time. A fan pointed at the shoes helps speed up the process without adding damaging heat.
Cleaning Alternatives: Deodorizing And Spot-Treating Shoes
Baking soda and water create an effective paste for spot-treating stains. Apply the mixture to dirty areas, scrub gently with a soft brush, and wipe clean with a damp cloth. This method targets problem spots without full immersion.
Shoe deodorizer products or homemade solutions control odor between deep cleans. Spray the interior after each climbing session and let the shoes air out. Baking soda sprinkled inside overnight absorbs smells naturally.
A damp cloth with mild soap handles routine cleaning without washing. Wipe down the exterior and interior after climbing sessions to prevent dirt buildup. This simple maintenance reduces how often shoes need full washing and extends their usable life.
