Ballet dancers need to pay attention to how they care for their ballet shoes. It is important to keep the shoes clean and in good condition, which may require washing them from time to time. But can you put ballet shoes in the wash?
The answer is yes, but with some caution. Ballet shoes are typically made of canvas or leather, so it is important to take special care when cleaning them. Canvas ballet shoes can be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle in the washing machine.
It is important to use a mild detergent that does not contain bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the fabric and cause fading or discoloration of the shoe. The shoes should be air dried so they do not shrink. It is also a good idea to stuff the toes of the shoes with paper towels or tissue paper before washing so they maintain their shape.
Leather ballet shoes should not be put in the washing machine as this could cause damage and discoloration. Instead, they should be wiped down with a wet cloth and mild detergent solution before being air dried completely before use. Leather conditioner can also be used on leather ballet shoes after cleaning to help keep them soft and supple.
When caring for your ballet shoes it is important to check for any rips, tears, or holes and repair them as soon as possible. This will help keep your shoes in good condition for longer periods of time.
In conclusion, yes you can put ballet shoes in the wash but it must be done carefully according to the type of material used for each shoe. Canvas ballet shoes can be washed on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent; however, leather ballet shoes should only be wiped down with a cloth and mild detergent solution before being allowed to air dry completely before use.