Hiking boots are an essential part of any outdoor adventure. When you’re out and about, your feet take a beating. And after a long day of exploring, your boots need a good cleaning. But can you wash hiking boots in the washing machine?
Let’s explore the pros and cons of this question to help you make an informed decision.
The Pros of Washing Hiking Boots in a Washing Machine
The primary benefit of washing your hiking boots in a washing machine is convenience. It’s much easier to throw them into the machine than it is to hand wash them, especially if they are really dirty or muddy.
Additionally, a washing machine may be more effective at removing stubborn dirt and debris from your boots than manual scrubbing.
Also, modern washing machines have special settings for delicates which can help ensure that your hiking boots don’t get damaged in the process.
The Cons of Washing Hiking Boots in a Washing Machine
One downside to washing hiking boots in the washing machine is that it can damage some materials like leather and suede.
Additionally, some manufacturers recommend against putting your hiking shoes through more than one cycle as this could weaken the adhesive used on seams and cause them to fall apart over time. Some hiking shoes are not designed to withstand the heat from the hot water, or the abrasiveness of the spin cycle.
If you do decide to put your hiking shoes in the washing machine, make sure not to overload it. This will decrease its effectiveness and could potentially cause other items inside to become damaged as well. It might also be beneficial to remove the shoelaces so they don’t get caught or tangled in anything else, or the machine itself!
Conclusion
Overall, whether or not you should wash your hiking boots in the washing machine depends on their material type and manufacturer recommendations.
If they are made of delicate materials like leather or suede or if they have been specifically designed with water-resistant coatings, then it may be best to skip the washer altogether and opt for handwashing instead.
If they are made of synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, however, then it might be worth considering putting them through a gentle cycle in order to effectively clean them without causing any damage.
Ultimately, no matter what method you choose for cleaning your hiking boots, just remember that taking care of them properly will extend their life span significantly!
See more of our recommendations in our Hiking Gear section.