Can You Wash Shoe Inserts? A Guide to Keeping Your Insoles Fresh

Shoe inserts are essential to maintaining proper foot health and comfort. As we wear our shoes throughout the day, our feet sweat, and deposits of dirt, grime, and bacteria can build up on the insoles. This leaves inserts smelly, worn out, and unclean. Replacing inserts frequently can get expensive, so many wonder, can you wash shoe inserts?

The short answer is yes, you can wash most shoe inserts to refresh them and extend their lifespan. However, the materials, construction method, and insert type will determine the best washing method. Following the proper technique is critical to avoid damaging your inserts when washing them.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need about washing shoe inserts. So, if your shoe insoles look worn out and smell funky, read on to learn how to refresh them with a good washing.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Washing Shoe Inserts

Washing your shoe inserts provides several benefits:

Removes dirt, grime, and bacteria: Sweat, dirt, skin cells, and microbes build up on inserts over time. Washing removes these deposits, leaving inserts fresh and clean.
Eliminates odors: Washing removes unpleasant foot odor and smells from bacteria growth in inserts, leaving them smelling like new.
Extends lifespan: Regular washing rejuvenates the materials and extends how long inserts last before needing replacement.
Restores comfort: Dirty, compressed inserts lose their cushioning. Washing helps inserts regain their softness and comfort underfoot.
Prevents foot issues: Clean inserts help minimize bacteria growth that can lead to conditions like fungal infections or athlete’s foot.

Overall, washing shoe inserts is an easy and effective way to keep your feet happy and maintain the performance of your insoles. The following sections cover how to wash the various shoe inserts properly.

What Types of Inserts Can You Wash?

You can wash and clean specific shoe inserts, but not all types should be soaked or put in the washing machine. The washability depends on the insert’s materials and construction:

Removable Inserts

Foam insoles: Basic foam inserts in shoes can be machine-washed gently or hand-washed. Avoid boiling water or harsh detergents that can break down the foam.
Gel insoles: Gel inserts should be hand washed only to avoid damaging the gel padding inside. Don’t soak for prolonged periods.
Leather insoles: Natural leather can become stiff if soaked. Instead of washing directly, use a damp cloth to wipe leather insoles clean.
Custom orthotics: Prescription orthotics with custom-molded shapes are very delicate. Check care instructions from your podiatrist before attempting to wash them.

Non-Removable Inserts

Cloth or fabric: The fabric portion of glued-in inserts can be spot-cleaned with gentle cleaners and scrubbing. Avoid excessive moisture.
Removable antimicrobial covers: The removable top layer can be machine-washed according to the included care instructions.
Foam midsole: For sneakers with foam midsoles, spot clean with a gentle cleaner and a soft brush. Do not get overly wet.

Now, let’s review the techniques for washing removable and non-removable shoe inserts.

How to Wash Removable Shoe Inserts

Here are some tips for handwashing, washing, and drying removable foam, gel, leather, or custom orthotic inserts after cleaning.

Handwashing Removable Inserts

Handwashing is the most gentle cleaning method and safest for delicate inserts like gel and leather. Here’s how to handwash shoe inserts:

Remove inserts from shoes and dismantle any multi-layer inserts.
Brush off dirt and debris. Use an old toothbrush or other soft brush. This removes some buildup before washing.
Mix mild soap and cool water. Avoid boiling water, as it can damage adhesives or coatings.
Submerge and soak inserts for 15-20 minutes so the water can penetrate interior layers.
Agitate and scrub using your hands or a soft brush to lift stains and buildup.
Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Repeat soaking and rinsing if still dirty.
Air dry inserts right side up on a towel. Stuff with tissue to hold shape. Don’t machine dry.
Use baking soda for extra deodorizing power. Add 1 tbsp to the wash water and let inserts soak.

Be extra gentle with natural leather inserts. Use only a damp cloth to wipe clean, avoiding excessive water exposure.

Machine Washing Removable Inserts

Basic removable foam inserts can withstand machine washing. Take these precautions when machine washing shoe inserts:

Use a mesh laundry bag to contain inserts and prevent damage to your machine.
Wash on a delicate cycle in cool or lukewarm water—no hot or sanitizing cycles.
Skip the dryer and allow inserts to air dry to avoid shrinking or misshaping fully.
Alternate with new inserts while a pair dries to maintain hygiene and cushioning.

Avoid machine-washing gel, leather, or custom orthotic inserts requiring gentler cleaning.

Drying and Caring for Inserts After Washing

Proper drying and care after washing will help inserts regain comfort and support. Follow these tips:

Air dry entirely on the right side on a towel before wearing it again—never machine dry inserts.
Stuff damp inserts with tissue while drying to hold their shape and prevent flattening. Change tissues periodically.
Tap inserts over a hard surface once fully dry to restore compression and cushioning.
Use tea tree oil or baking soda to add extra deodorizing power and antibacterial properties after washing.
Allow inserts to fully dry before placing them back in shoes. Never wear still-damp inserts to avoid microbiome growth.
Store properly between wears to avoid getting dirty again. Keep inserts contained in a breathable bag or box.

Properly washing and drying shoe inserts helps restore hygiene, reduce odors, and extend their usable lifespan before needing replacement.

How to Sanitize Non-Removable Inserts

Many casual shoes like sneakers have inserts glued permanently inside that can’t be entirely removed for washing. Here’s how to safely sanitize non-removable inserts:

Remove footbed covers that can detach from the base foam layer. Machine wash those separately per the included instructions.
Mix mild soap and warm water. Dampen a clean towel in the solution.
Spot clean fabric layers by gently scrubbing and dabbing with a damp towel.
Use a soft brush to scrub the textured foam base layer gently.
Let air dry entirely right side up, away from direct sun or heat. Point a fan on inserts to speed drying.
Disinfect with UV light by leaving inserts in direct sunlight for several hours. The UV rays kill bacteria.
Use antimicrobial spray formulated for shoes and fabrics to sanitize inserts after spot cleaning.
Replace removable sock liners after six months to maintain fresh cushioning against feet.

Take care not to oversaturate non-removable inserts, which can loosen their glue and cause delamination. Gentle surface cleaning keeps these inserts fresher between replacements.

How to Wash Smelly Shoe Inserts

The bacteria that causes foot odor loves warm, damp environments like the inside of shoes. Here are some tips for washing disgustingly smelly shoe inserts:

Soak in vinegar solution. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Soak inserts for 30 minutes to kill odor-causing bacteria.
Scrub with baking soda. The abrasive texture helps lift away built-up gunk-causing smells. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing.
Sanitize with diluted bleach (10% bleach/90% water). Soak for 15 minutes, then rinse well. It is effective for disinfecting but can damage colors.
Air dry in sunlight. The UV light and heat help kill bacteria that create odors.
Use activated charcoal bags. Place charcoal bags in shoes or storage containers to absorb odors between wears actively.
Change socks frequently. Bacteria and fungi feed on sweat soaked into socks. Rotate socks each wear and wash socks in hot water.
Treat underlying causes. See a doctor for excessive foot sweating, infections, or chronic conditions contributing to insert odors.

Consistent insert washing and proper foot hygiene between wears can eliminate unpleasant foot odor and keep your shoes and inserts smelling fresh.

Conclusion

Can You Wash Shoe Inserts

Washing your shoe inserts regularly is easy to keep your feet comfortable, your shoes smelling fresh, and your insoles’ usable life extended.

What type of inserts you have, and their construction determines the proper washing method. Follow the techniques outlined for removable vs. fixed inserts, handwashing vs. machine washing, and adequate drying to clean inserts without damaging them.

Pay special attention to washing, particularly smelly inserts. Use disinfectants like vinegar or diluted bleach to kill odor and germ-causing bacteria. Also, maintain good foot hygiene between wears.

With proper insert washing and care, you can save money by getting more wear out of your shoe insoles before needing replacement. Happy washing!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I wash my shoe inserts?

Wash removable inserts every 2 to 4 weeks for regular daily use. Wash weekly if you are very active or prone to sweaty feet.

Can I wash inserts in the dishwasher?

No, the hot water and harsh dishwasher detergent can damage inserts. Handwash or use the gentle cycle of a washing machine.

Do custom orthotics require special washing?

Always check with your podiatrist first. Most custom orthotics have special care instructions. Improper washing may warp their customized shape.

Should I wash inserts before first wear?

Yes, new inserts come from the factory and can have residues or chemicals from manufacturing. Wash to remove and maximize comfort.

How do I dry inserts quickly?

Stuff damp inserts with tissue to hold their shape, allowing quicker drying. Point a fan directly at them to speed up evaporation. Replace tissues periodically.