Can You Put Your Cheer Shoes in the Washer and Dryer?

Published: Dec 27, 2025

4 min. read

Ecommerce Steem

Cheer shoes endure constant use in practice and competition. It's no surprise they get dirty fast. So it's perfectly acceptable to ask: can you straightforwardly put them in the washer and dryer to cleanse them?

The quick answer: It's not a good idea. Here's why, and what you should do instead to keep your shoes looking clean without damaging them:

Why Washing Machines Aren't Great for Cheer Shoes

Washing machines can actually mess up your shoes, including high-performance options like Nfinity cheer shoes.

Here's what can go wrong:

The stitching can start to come undone or tear
The shoe can lose its shape or structure
Lightweight fabrics may stretch or get damaged
Bright white shoes can start turning yellow over time

Even if your shoes look clean, they might not provide the same support for stunts, jumps, or tumbling — and that's not worth the risk.

What About the Dryer?

Dryers get extremely hot. That heat can shrink or warp parts of your shoe and may even melt glue or padding. Once that happens, your shoes won't fit right or perform the way they should.

Washing Your Cheer Shoes: The Pros and Cons

Pros:

Fast and easy
Removes surface dirt
No scrubbing required

Cons:

Can damage the shoe's shape and flexibility
May cause yellowing or fading
Shortens the lifespan of your shoes
Dryer heat can melt or shrink materials
Damage is usually not covered by warranty

What feels like a shortcut can end up costing you a new pair much sooner than expected.

A Better Way to Clean Your Cheer Shoes

To keep your shoes clean and in great shape, try this instead:

Brush off dirt with a soft brush or dry cloth
Mix warm water with a small amount of mild soap
Gently scrub dirty areas with a sponge or cloth
Wipe clean with plain water
Stuff shoes with paper towels to hold their shape
Air dry in a cool place away from direct sunlight or heat

For scuff marks, a white eraser or magic eraser works great without damaging the material.

Take Care of the Gear That Helps You Perform

Cheer shoes aren't just footwear — they support your performance, comfort, and confidence. While washing machines and dryers may seem convenient, hand cleaning is the safest option. Taking proper care helps your shoes last longer and perform the way they were designed.

If you ever need tips for caring for Nfinity shoes, check out our blog. Whether you're a flyer, base, coach, or parent, we've got you covered.

Content Written By: Atiq Ur Rehman

Atiq is a performance-driven content strategist with a deep passion for athletics, movement, and the culture of competitive cheer. With years of experience crafting high-impact digital content, he blends precision research with compelling storytelling to deliver pieces that educate, elevate, and energize. His writing for Nfinity is rooted in authenticity, athlete-first insight, and a commitment to helping every cheerleader push past their limits.

Proofread By: Kaylee Padilla

Kaylee is the Social Media Coordinator at Nfinity and has been involved in cheerleading for decades. With extensive experience in the sport and in brand communication, she helps review and proofread blog content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency with Nfinity’s voice. Her familiarity with the cheer community helps ensure content resonates with athletes and coaches alike.

Facts and Details Checked By: Cassidy Eytel

Cassidy brings a strong background in competitive cheerleading and marketing strategy to her role as Nfinity’s Marketing Coordinator. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the cheer industry, she reviews content to ensure accuracy, brand alignment, and relevance for athletes and coaches alike. From event information to product messaging, Cassidy helps verify that every detail reflects Nfinity’s standards of quality, credibility, and connection with the cheer community.