Things To Know About How To Wash Allbirds

Things To Know About How To Wash Allbirds

Struggling with dirty Allbirds? Don’t worry. Washing Allbirds is actually pretty simple. Just take out the insoles and laces, pre-treat any stains, then toss them in the wash. Use cold water, a gentle detergent, and always let them air dry. This keeps the fabric soft and the colors vibrant.

Stick around, and we’ll guide you through the best ways to wash your Allbirds, from machine washing to hand cleaning. Plus, we’ll share four tips on how to keep them fresh for longer.

Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove the laces before washing and pre-treat tough stains to avoid permanent marks.

  • Always use cold water and a gentle detergent to wash Allbirds.

  • Air dry them in a well-ventilated area after washing.

  • Use a protective spray to keep them cleaner for longer.

Why You Should Clean Your Allbirds Regularly

You should clean your Allbirds regularly to keep them fresh, comfortable, and long-lasting. Clean shoes look better and feel smoother. Moreover, dirty shoes can hold onto odors and bacteria. This isn’t just unpleasant – it can also make the shoes stiff over time.

Here’s a table about why you should wash your Allbirds:

Reason

Why It Matters

Maintains Freshness

Prevents odor buildup from sweat and dirt.

Extends Lifespan

Keeps the fabric in good shape for longer.

Retains Comfort

Clean shoes breathe better and feel softer.

Enhances Appearance

Keeps colors bright and shoes looking new.

Hygiene and Health

Cuts down on bacteria and allergens.

How to Wash Allbirds in a Machine Washing?

To wash Allbirds in a washing machine, remove the insoles and laces, place the shoes in a laundry bag, and use cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry only—never use a dryer. This keeps the wool soft and the shape intact.

Step 1: Remove the Insoles and Laces

If you want to clean Allbirds, always start by removing the insoles and laces. These parts are more delicate and can get twisted or damaged if left on during the wash.

We’ve made this mistake before, and our laces came out stretched and frayed.

Once the insoles are out, give them a quick scrub. Use soapy water and a soft brush to gently clean them. This helps remove odor, which keeps your shoes fresher for longer.

Let the insoles air dry. Don’t rush this part. Wet insoles can hold onto moisture, which can lead to smells later on.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

Before you put your Allbirds in the washing machine, check for any tough stains. It’s a good idea to handle these before washing. We like to use a small amount of mild detergent and a soft brush for this.

Important Note: Be careful not to scrub too hard, though. We once scrubbed too aggressively and ended up with a faded spot on one shoe. Just dab and rub gently, then let it sit for a few minutes.

Tip: Focus on high-wear areas like the toes and heels, as these parts tend to pick up the most dirt.

Step 3: Use a Mesh Laundry Bag

Always put your Allbirds in a mesh laundry bag before tossing them in the machine. This is important, as it helps prevent the shoes from getting banged around. Plus, doing this reduces the risk of fabric damage.

We’ve skipped this step before, and our shoes came out looking a bit rough.

If you don’t have a mesh bag, don’t get worried. You can use a pillowcase as a quick substitute. It’s not perfect, but it does the job in a pinch.

Step 4: Use Cold Water and Gentle Detergent

Always wash your Allbirds in cold water with a gentle detergent. We always pick a mild, eco-friendly detergent. It’s better for the natural materials used in Allbirds, like wool and eucalyptus fibers.

Regular detergents can be too harsh and strip the fabric, which makes the shoes feel rough.

To wash Allbirds, set your washing machine to the gentle or delicate cycle. It might take a bit longer, but it’s much kinder to the fabric. We once tried a regular cycle in a rush, and the shoes came out stiff and a little dull.

Step 5: Air Dry Only

Never put your Allbirds in the dryer. We made this mistake once, and the shoes came out shrunken and stiff. Not a good look.

Instead, let them air dry. Reshape the shoes while they’re still damp to help them hold their form. We like to stuff them with a small towel or paper to keep their shape as they dry.

Keep them in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Once they’re completely dry, pop the insoles back in, lace them up, and they’re ready to wear again.

How to Hand Wash Allbirds (Wool and Tree Fabrics)

To hand wash Allbirds, first take out the laces and insoles. Fill a bowl with cold water and add a little gentle detergent. Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the shoes without scrubbing too hard. Rinse lightly, then let them air dry—no heat, no wringing.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To hand wash your Allbirds, you’ll need a basin or sink, mild detergent, a soft brush, and a clean towel.

Fill the basin with cold water and add a little detergent. Cold water is best because it keeps the fabric from shrinking or stretching. Then, pick a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub away dirt without harming the fabric.

Step 2: Spot Clean First

Before you soak the whole shoe, check for any tough stains. We usually dab these spots with soapy water and gently scrub with our brush.

Sometimes, we use a bit of baking soda for greasy stains. Just a pinch mixed with water, rubbed in lightly, then rinsed. It’s effective without being too harsh.

Remember: Spot cleaning keeps the fabric looking fresh and prevents set-in stains.

Step 3: Gently Wash the Shoes

Submerge your Allbirds in the soapy water and move them around gently. This helps loosen dirt without putting too much stress on the fabric.

We like to give a little extra attention to high-wear areas like the toes and heels. Just don’t scrub too hard – a light massage is all it takes.

When you’re done, rinse with clean, cold water. Don’t twist or wring them out. Just press gently to remove excess water.

How to Wash Allbirds Insoles?

Here are the steps to Wash Allbirds Insoles:

  • Remove the insoles: Take the insoles out of your shoes. This prevents them from getting twisted or damaged in the wash. It also lets them dry faster.

  • Pre-treat stains: If the insoles have tough stains, scrub them gently with a soft brush and a little mild soap. Focus on the areas that look the dirtiest, like the heel and toe.

  • Hand wash with warm, soapy water: Fill a basin with warm water. Add a few drops of mild detergent. Submerge the insoles and gently scrub them to remove dirt and odor. Rinse them well with cool water to get all the soap out.

  • Squeeze out excess water: Press the insoles gently to remove extra water. Don’t twist or wring them out, as this can damage their shape.

  • Air dry completely: Let the insoles air dry in a well-ventilated area. Make sure they are fully dry before putting them back in your shoes.

How to Wash Allbirds Laces

Laces can get dirty quickly because they’re exposed to a lot of dirt and sweat. Clean laces make your shoes look fresher and last longer. We always wash our laces by hand to keep them looking good.

Here are the steps to wash Allbirds laces:

  • Remove the laces: Take the laces out of your shoes before washing. This keeps them from getting tangled or stretched in the wash.

  • Soak in soapy water: Fill a bowl with warm water. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Let the laces soak for about 13 to 15 minutes to loosen dirt and sweat.

  • Scrub gently: Use your hands or a soft brush to work out any stains. Be gentle to avoid fraying the fibers.

  • Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the laces under clean water to remove all the soap. This helps keep them soft and flexible.

  • Air dry completely: Lay the laces flat on a clean towel or hang them up to dry. Make sure they are fully dry before re-lacing your shoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Allbirds

Washing Allbirds the right way helps them last longer and look better. But it’s easy to make mistakes. We’ve made a few ourselves, so here are some common ones to avoid:

Mistake

Why It’s a Problem

Using hot water

Can shrink the fabric and cause colors to fade.

Skipping the mesh bag

Increases the risk of scuffs and fabric damage.

Using harsh detergent

Can strip natural fibers and make shoes rough.

Using a dryer

Heat can warp the soles and shrink the fabric.

Not removing insoles and laces

Can lead to tangling and trapped odors.

Over-washing

Can wear out the fabric and reduce lifespan.

How to Keep Your Allbirds Clean for Longer

Keeping your Allbirds clean isn’t just about washing them. It’s also about how you care for them between washes. We’ve picked up a few habits that really help.

Use a Protective Spray

You should use a good protective spray if you want your Allbirds to stay clean. It adds a water-repellent and stain-resistant layer to the fabric.

We always spray our shoes when they’re brand new, and then again every few months.

Make sure to use a spray that’s safe for wool or natural fibers. Some sprays are too harsh and can leave a stiff residue. We like to spray our shoes in a well-ventilated area, then let them dry completely before wearing them.

Store Them Properly

Where you store your Allbirds matters. We’ve noticed that keeping our shoes in a dry, cool place helps prevent mold, mildew, and bad odors.

Important Point: Avoid keeping them in damp or humid places like gym bags or closed closets. These spaces can trap moisture and make your shoes smell musty. Instead, choose a spot with good airflow, like an open shoe rack or a breathable bag.

Rotate Your Shoes

We like to rotate our Allbirds with other shoes to give them a break. This lets the fabric breathe and recover, which helps it stay fresh longer.

Plus, rotating your shoes can help reduce wear in high-stress areas like the toes and heels. This keeps them looking newer for longer.

Clean Spills and Stains Quickly

Spills happen, but the faster you deal with them, the better. We’ve learned that quick action prevents stains from setting in and becoming permanent.

Keep a small bottle of gentle cleaner or a damp cloth handy for quick touch-ups. We’ve saved a few pairs this way, especially after coffee or mud mishaps.

For tougher stains, a little baking soda or vinegar can help.

How Often Should You Wash Your Allbirds?

How often you should wash your Allbirds depends on how often you wear them and where you take them. If you wear them daily, you will need to wash them every month or two. We’ve found that this keeps them smelling fresh and looking good.

If you only wear them casually or for light activities, you can probably stretch this to once every three to four months. Just keep an eye on the insoles and laces, as these parts tend to get dirty faster.

Ultimately, the right wash schedule depends on your lifestyle. If you’re hiking in your Allbirds or wearing them in muddy conditions, you’ll need to wash them more often. On the other hand, if you mostly wear them indoors or for light walking, they’ll stay cleaner for longer.

Final Words

Washing your Allbirds the right way can keep them looking fresh and feeling great. It’s all about using the right methods and a little extra care. Here’s a recap:

  • Remove insoles and laces before washing.

  • Use cold water and gentle shampoo or detergent.

  • Air dry completely; never use a dryer.

  • Use protective spray for added stain resistance.

Take care of your Allbirds, and they’ll keep you comfy for miles to come.

Love your Allbirds? Then, you must check out this guide: 6 Top-Quality shoes that are just like Allbirds.

Struggling with dirty Allbirds? Don’t worry. Washing Allbirds is actually pretty simple. Just take out the insoles and laces, pre-treat any stains, then toss them in the wash. Use cold water, a gentle detergent, and always let them air dry. This keeps the fabric soft and the colors vibrant.

Stick around, and we’ll guide you through the best ways to wash your Allbirds, from machine washing to hand cleaning. Plus, we’ll share four tips on how to keep them fresh for longer.

Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove the laces before washing and pre-treat tough stains to avoid permanent marks.

  • Always use cold water and a gentle detergent to wash Allbirds.

  • Air dry them in a well-ventilated area after washing.

  • Use a protective spray to keep them cleaner for longer.

Why You Should Clean Your Allbirds Regularly

You should clean your Allbirds regularly to keep them fresh, comfortable, and long-lasting. Clean shoes look better and feel smoother. Moreover, dirty shoes can hold onto odors and bacteria. This isn’t just unpleasant – it can also make the shoes stiff over time.

Here’s a table about why you should wash your Allbirds:

Reason

Why It Matters

Maintains Freshness

Prevents odor buildup from sweat and dirt.

Extends Lifespan

Keeps the fabric in good shape for longer.

Retains Comfort

Clean shoes breathe better and feel softer.

Enhances Appearance

Keeps colors bright and shoes looking new.

Hygiene and Health

Cuts down on bacteria and allergens.

How to Wash Allbirds in a Machine Washing?

To wash Allbirds in a washing machine, remove the insoles and laces, place the shoes in a laundry bag, and use cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Air dry only—never use a dryer. This keeps the wool soft and the shape intact.

Step 1: Remove the Insoles and Laces

If you want to clean Allbirds, always start by removing the insoles and laces. These parts are more delicate and can get twisted or damaged if left on during the wash.

We’ve made this mistake before, and our laces came out stretched and frayed.

Once the insoles are out, give them a quick scrub. Use soapy water and a soft brush to gently clean them. This helps remove odor, which keeps your shoes fresher for longer.

Let the insoles air dry. Don’t rush this part. Wet insoles can hold onto moisture, which can lead to smells later on.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

Before you put your Allbirds in the washing machine, check for any tough stains. It’s a good idea to handle these before washing. We like to use a small amount of mild detergent and a soft brush for this.

Important Note: Be careful not to scrub too hard, though. We once scrubbed too aggressively and ended up with a faded spot on one shoe. Just dab and rub gently, then let it sit for a few minutes.

Tip: Focus on high-wear areas like the toes and heels, as these parts tend to pick up the most dirt.

Step 3: Use a Mesh Laundry Bag

Always put your Allbirds in a mesh laundry bag before tossing them in the machine. This is important, as it helps prevent the shoes from getting banged around. Plus, doing this reduces the risk of fabric damage.

We’ve skipped this step before, and our shoes came out looking a bit rough.

If you don’t have a mesh bag, don’t get worried. You can use a pillowcase as a quick substitute. It’s not perfect, but it does the job in a pinch.

Step 4: Use Cold Water and Gentle Detergent

Always wash your Allbirds in cold water with a gentle detergent. We always pick a mild, eco-friendly detergent. It’s better for the natural materials used in Allbirds, like wool and eucalyptus fibers.

Regular detergents can be too harsh and strip the fabric, which makes the shoes feel rough.

To wash Allbirds, set your washing machine to the gentle or delicate cycle. It might take a bit longer, but it’s much kinder to the fabric. We once tried a regular cycle in a rush, and the shoes came out stiff and a little dull.

Step 5: Air Dry Only

Never put your Allbirds in the dryer. We made this mistake once, and the shoes came out shrunken and stiff. Not a good look.

Instead, let them air dry. Reshape the shoes while they’re still damp to help them hold their form. We like to stuff them with a small towel or paper to keep their shape as they dry.

Keep them in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Once they’re completely dry, pop the insoles back in, lace them up, and they’re ready to wear again.

How to Hand Wash Allbirds (Wool and Tree Fabrics)

To hand wash Allbirds, first take out the laces and insoles. Fill a bowl with cold water and add a little gentle detergent. Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the shoes without scrubbing too hard. Rinse lightly, then let them air dry—no heat, no wringing.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To hand wash your Allbirds, you’ll need a basin or sink, mild detergent, a soft brush, and a clean towel.

Fill the basin with cold water and add a little detergent. Cold water is best because it keeps the fabric from shrinking or stretching. Then, pick a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub away dirt without harming the fabric.

Step 2: Spot Clean First

Before you soak the whole shoe, check for any tough stains. We usually dab these spots with soapy water and gently scrub with our brush.

Sometimes, we use a bit of baking soda for greasy stains. Just a pinch mixed with water, rubbed in lightly, then rinsed. It’s effective without being too harsh.

Remember: Spot cleaning keeps the fabric looking fresh and prevents set-in stains.

Step 3: Gently Wash the Shoes

Submerge your Allbirds in the soapy water and move them around gently. This helps loosen dirt without putting too much stress on the fabric.

We like to give a little extra attention to high-wear areas like the toes and heels. Just don’t scrub too hard – a light massage is all it takes.

When you’re done, rinse with clean, cold water. Don’t twist or wring them out. Just press gently to remove excess water.

How to Wash Allbirds Insoles?

Here are the steps to Wash Allbirds Insoles:

  • Remove the insoles: Take the insoles out of your shoes. This prevents them from getting twisted or damaged in the wash. It also lets them dry faster.

  • Pre-treat stains: If the insoles have tough stains, scrub them gently with a soft brush and a little mild soap. Focus on the areas that look the dirtiest, like the heel and toe.

  • Hand wash with warm, soapy water: Fill a basin with warm water. Add a few drops of mild detergent. Submerge the insoles and gently scrub them to remove dirt and odor. Rinse them well with cool water to get all the soap out.

  • Squeeze out excess water: Press the insoles gently to remove extra water. Don’t twist or wring them out, as this can damage their shape.

  • Air dry completely: Let the insoles air dry in a well-ventilated area. Make sure they are fully dry before putting them back in your shoes.

How to Wash Allbirds Laces

Laces can get dirty quickly because they’re exposed to a lot of dirt and sweat. Clean laces make your shoes look fresher and last longer. We always wash our laces by hand to keep them looking good.

Here are the steps to wash Allbirds laces:

  • Remove the laces: Take the laces out of your shoes before washing. This keeps them from getting tangled or stretched in the wash.

  • Soak in soapy water: Fill a bowl with warm water. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Let the laces soak for about 13 to 15 minutes to loosen dirt and sweat.

  • Scrub gently: Use your hands or a soft brush to work out any stains. Be gentle to avoid fraying the fibers.

  • Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the laces under clean water to remove all the soap. This helps keep them soft and flexible.

  • Air dry completely: Lay the laces flat on a clean towel or hang them up to dry. Make sure they are fully dry before re-lacing your shoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Allbirds

Washing Allbirds the right way helps them last longer and look better. But it’s easy to make mistakes. We’ve made a few ourselves, so here are some common ones to avoid:

Mistake

Why It’s a Problem

Using hot water

Can shrink the fabric and cause colors to fade.

Skipping the mesh bag

Increases the risk of scuffs and fabric damage.

Using harsh detergent

Can strip natural fibers and make shoes rough.

Using a dryer

Heat can warp the soles and shrink the fabric.

Not removing insoles and laces

Can lead to tangling and trapped odors.

Over-washing

Can wear out the fabric and reduce lifespan.

How to Keep Your Allbirds Clean for Longer

Keeping your Allbirds clean isn’t just about washing them. It’s also about how you care for them between washes. We’ve picked up a few habits that really help.

Use a Protective Spray

You should use a good protective spray if you want your Allbirds to stay clean. It adds a water-repellent and stain-resistant layer to the fabric.

We always spray our shoes when they’re brand new, and then again every few months.

Make sure to use a spray that’s safe for wool or natural fibers. Some sprays are too harsh and can leave a stiff residue. We like to spray our shoes in a well-ventilated area, then let them dry completely before wearing them.

Store Them Properly

Where you store your Allbirds matters. We’ve noticed that keeping our shoes in a dry, cool place helps prevent mold, mildew, and bad odors.

Important Point: Avoid keeping them in damp or humid places like gym bags or closed closets. These spaces can trap moisture and make your shoes smell musty. Instead, choose a spot with good airflow, like an open shoe rack or a breathable bag.

Rotate Your Shoes

We like to rotate our Allbirds with other shoes to give them a break. This lets the fabric breathe and recover, which helps it stay fresh longer.

Plus, rotating your shoes can help reduce wear in high-stress areas like the toes and heels. This keeps them looking newer for longer.

Clean Spills and Stains Quickly

Spills happen, but the faster you deal with them, the better. We’ve learned that quick action prevents stains from setting in and becoming permanent.

Keep a small bottle of gentle cleaner or a damp cloth handy for quick touch-ups. We’ve saved a few pairs this way, especially after coffee or mud mishaps.

For tougher stains, a little baking soda or vinegar can help.

How Often Should You Wash Your Allbirds?

How often you should wash your Allbirds depends on how often you wear them and where you take them. If you wear them daily, you will need to wash them every month or two. We’ve found that this keeps them smelling fresh and looking good.

If you only wear them casually or for light activities, you can probably stretch this to once every three to four months. Just keep an eye on the insoles and laces, as these parts tend to get dirty faster.

Ultimately, the right wash schedule depends on your lifestyle. If you’re hiking in your Allbirds or wearing them in muddy conditions, you’ll need to wash them more often. On the other hand, if you mostly wear them indoors or for light walking, they’ll stay cleaner for longer.

Final Words

Washing your Allbirds the right way can keep them looking fresh and feeling great. It’s all about using the right methods and a little extra care. Here’s a recap:

  • Remove insoles and laces before washing.

  • Use cold water and gentle shampoo or detergent.

  • Air dry completely; never use a dryer.

  • Use protective spray for added stain resistance.

Take care of your Allbirds, and they’ll keep you comfy for miles to come.

Love your Allbirds? Then, you must check out this guide: 6 Top-Quality shoes that are just like Allbirds.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Pete Oliveri

CEO / AUTHOR of Freaky Shoes®

Meet Pete Oliveri, the creative force and driving visionary behind Freaky Shoes. A New Jersey native, Pete is an accomplished American artist dedicated over 20 years to the consumer products industry, leaving an indelible mark in various domains such as graphic and packaging design, illustration, and product development. His extraordinary talent has earned him accolades, including the prestigious Bio Comics Award for his exceptional comic book content development work. However, Pete's ultimate achievement lies in his role as the Founder, CEO and creative genius of Freaky Shoes.

NaN of -Infinity