Can You Put Sperrys in Washing Machine? Shocking Truth!

The iconic Sperry Top-Sider, renowned for its durability and classic style, is a staple in many wardrobes, but questions often arise about its care. One frequently asked question is: can you put Sperrys in the washing machine? Understanding the specific materials used in your pair is crucial. The answer, related to proper leather care, isn't always straightforward, and improper washing can impact the longevity of these beloved shoes.

Image taken from the YouTube channel How to House , from the video titled How to WASH SHOES IN WASHING MACHINE .

Can You Put Sperrys in the Washing Machine? The Real Answer!

Many Sperry owners find themselves wondering about the best way to clean their beloved boat shoes. A common question is: can you put Sperrys in the washing machine? The answer isn't a simple "yes" or "no," and understanding the nuances will help you keep your Sperrys looking their best for longer.

Understanding Sperry Materials

Before tossing your Sperrys into the washing machine, it's crucial to understand the materials they're made of. Different materials react differently to water and detergents.

Leather Sperrys

Leather Sperrys, whether they're classic boat shoes or loafers, are the most delicate.

• Why machine washing is risky: Leather can shrink, crack, and lose its natural oils when exposed to excessive water and harsh detergents. This can drastically alter the shoe's shape and comfort.

Canvas Sperrys

Canvas Sperrys are generally more resilient than leather.

• Why machine washing might be okay (with caution): Canvas is more water-resistant than leather and less prone to shrinking significantly. However, color fading and potential damage to the shoe's construction are still concerns.

Synthetic Sperrys

Some Sperrys are made from synthetic materials like nylon or rubber.

• Why machine washing might be okay (with caution): These materials are often the most durable and can withstand machine washing better than leather or canvas. However, always check the manufacturer's instructions first.

Risks of Machine Washing Sperrys

Irrespective of the material, machine washing carries certain risks:

• Damage to the Sole: The adhesive bonding the sole to the upper part of the shoe can weaken, leading to separation.
• Color Fading: Detergents can cause the color of your Sperrys to fade, particularly dark or vibrant colors.
• Shrinking: Leather Sperrys are especially vulnerable to shrinking, making them uncomfortable to wear.
• Deformation: The shape of the shoe can be altered, especially if it's tossed around roughly during the wash cycle.
• Hardware Damage: Metal eyelets and laces can become damaged or discolored.

Safer Cleaning Methods for Sperrys

If machine washing presents risks, what are the alternatives? Here's a breakdown:

Cleaning Leather Sperrys

Leather Sperrys require gentle care to preserve their quality.

1. Preparation: Remove loose dirt with a soft brush.
2. Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap (like saddle soap) with lukewarm water.
3. Application: Dip a soft cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe the leather. Avoid soaking the shoes.
4. Rinsing: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue.
5. Drying: Stuff the shoes with paper towels to help them retain their shape and allow them to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat.
6. Conditioning: Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to moisturize the leather and prevent cracking.

Cleaning Canvas Sperrys

Canvas Sperrys can handle slightly more rigorous cleaning.

1. Preparation: Remove loose dirt with a soft brush.
2. Cleaning Solution: Mix mild detergent with lukewarm water.
3. Application: Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the canvas.
4. Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
5. Drying: Allow the shoes to air dry, stuffed with paper towels. Avoid direct sunlight.

Cleaning Synthetic Sperrys

Synthetic Sperrys are the easiest to clean.

1. Preparation: Remove loose dirt.
2. Cleaning Solution: Use mild soap and water.
3. Application: Scrub with a brush or cloth.
4. Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly.
5. Drying: Air dry.

If You Absolutely Must Machine Wash… (Use Extreme Caution!)

If you insist on machine washing, proceed with extreme caution and only for canvas or synthetic Sperrys.

1. Pre-Treatment: Remove laces and insoles. Hand-wash these separately.
2. Protection: Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag to minimize friction.
3. Detergent: Use a small amount of mild, liquid detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
4. Cycle: Select a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water.
5. No Spin: Disable the spin cycle to prevent excessive tumbling.
6. Drying: Never put Sperrys in the dryer. Allow them to air dry, stuffed with paper towels, away from direct heat and sunlight.

A Quick Reference Table

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