Can On Cloud Shoes Be Washed In Washing Machine

On Cloud sneakers are the go-to choice of runners and fitness personalities with their minimalist comfort and radical CloudTec cushioning. Their mesh airflow and high-quality construction materials qualify them as good sneakers for active living, yet they need thorough washing to maintain cleanliness and a good working order. Most of them are concerned whether throwing them into the washer is a sound method of washing them efficiently and safely. Understanding the best way to care for such shoes ensures that they last longer in service despite maintaining their signature comfort.  While machine washing soiled sneakers is a fast fix, it may be harmful to sensitive components of shoes like adhesives, cushioning, and fabric durability.

On Running typically discourages rough cleaning, instead recommending gentler options in a bid to preserve the quality of the shoes. Aspects such as water temperature, detergent selection, and drying methods are all important aspects to prevent damage. This article will discuss if Can On Cloud Shoes Be Washed In Washing Machine? and present safer cleaning alternatives for your On Cloud shoes. 

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Risk of Washing Machines to Cloud Shoes

1. Adhesive Damage

On Cloud shoe adhesive is not machine wash-proof. Spinning and tumbling will:

• Break soles apart – Outsole and upper become loose because the adhesive is weakened, causing peeling off.
• Lose CloudTec pods – Special cushioning components get loose or broken.
• Delaminate overlays – Reinforced areas (e.g., toe guards) begin to delaminate.

2. Material Breakdown

The high-tech materials and foams in the shoes break down with machine washing:

• Mesh uppers – Harsh detergents strip away water-repellent coatings and stretch fibers.
• Color fading – Vibrant dyes and prints bleed or fade with repeated washing.
• Waterproof damage – Machine washing destroys the performance of models featuring a waterproof membrane (e.g., Cloud 5 Waterproof).

3. Cushioning Compression

Machine pressure compresses the shoe’s responsive foams:

• Helion™ superfoam – Loss of bounce, run feels less comfortable.
• Speedboard® stiffness – Distorts, energy return compromised.
• CloudTec pods – Can fold, altering the signature “soft landing, firm take-off” feel.

4. Structural Deformation

In the absence of a shoe cage or laundry bag:

• Toe box crumples– Warps its shape, causing discomfort.
• Heel counter bend– Reduces stability during runs.
• Midfoot twists – Affects arch support and alignment.

5. Moisture & Odor Issues

If not dried properly:

• Trapped water– Absorbs into the foam, offering bacteria breeding space.
• Growth of mold – Becomes stale odors.
• Material degradation – Degradation of the EVA foam takes place at an increased rate when water is saturated.

6. Destruction of Individual Components

Small but very significant components fall victim:

• Reflective stripes– Delaminates or crack.
• Seams stitching– Threads loosen, causing seams to tear apart.
• Laces/elastic straps– Lose elasticity or snap.

7. Voidance of Warranty

Most performance shoe warranties that exclude machine wash damage:

• The Running policy likely does so.
• Washing can lead to denial of claims for defects (e.g., sole separation).

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How to Wash On Cloud Shoes in a Washing Machine Safely 

Though hand washing is still the best method of cleaning On Cloud shoes, sometimes odors or stubborn dirt might force you to use a washing machine. If you must, this step-by-step 2000-character guide will reduce risks while thoroughly cleaning your shoes.

1. Pre-Wash Preparation

• Take Off All Removable Parts
• Take out laces and wash in a gentle soap solution separately
• Draw out insoles so they don’t warp and to make cleaning easier
• Inspect for loose dirt in crevices (rocks in tread will ruin your machine)

Dry Brush Thoroughly

• Brush off dry mud and dirt with a soft-bristled brush
• Pay special attention to outsole grooves and mesh upper
• This prevents abrasive particles from scratching shoes during washing

Protective Precautions

• Place every shoe in an individual mesh laundry bag (prevents excessive banging)
• Add a few microfiber towels to balance the load and distribute impacts

2. Machine Settings

Water Temperature

• Utilize cold water at all times (up to 30°C/86°F)  
• Hot water makes adhesives melt and technical fabrics shrink

Cycle Selection

• Select “Delicate” or “Hand Wash” mode  
• Steer clear of “Heavy Duty” or “Sports” cycles (too harsh)  
• Disable spin cycle whenever possible (or use lowest RPM setting)  

Detergent Guidelines  

Employ pH-neutral liquid detergent(1-2 tbsp maximum)  

Never:

✗ Bleach  

✗ Fabric softeners  

✗ Stain removers

✗ Pod-style detergents (can leave residue)

3. The Washing Process 

Load Placement

• Place shoes horizontally in the drum
• Position for balanced weight distribution
• Don’t overload the machine (wash only 1-2 pairs max)

Additional Protection

• Add color catcher sheets if washing models with bold colors
• Consider the use of specialty shoe cleaning balls to maintain shape

Post-Wash Inspection

Inspect immediately for:

✓ Loose soles  

✓ Separated CloudTec pods  

✓ Warped uppers  

Address any issues before drying  

Drying

Initial Water Removal

• Gently press (don’t twist!) shoes to remove excess water  
• Use a microfiber towel to blot moisture from uppers  

Shape Preservation

Stuff shoes with:

✓ White paper towels (change every 2-3 hours)

✓ Cedar shoe trees (for premium models)  

✓ Wrinkled newspaper (for odor absorption)  

Drying Environment 

Place in well-ventilated area away from:  

  ✗ Direct sunlight  

  ✗ Heat vents  

  ✗ Radiators  

• Use a fan to circulate air (speeds drying)  
• Allow 48 hours minimum drying time  

5. Post-Wash Maintenance

• Odor Prevention
• Sprightly mist with enzyme shoe deodorizer
• Investigate storing using activated charcoal bags

Performance Check

• Check cushioning rebound before going for a run
• Check flexibility hasn’t been compromised
• Check tread grip on smooth surfaces

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Alternative Cleaning Methods for On Cloud Shoes

Although machine washing may appear to be convenient, these more delicate cleaning methods will maintain your On Cloud shoes in their best condition and functioning their best without sacrificing their integrity.

1. Hand Washing

For the safest and best clean, hand washing is always the best method. Begin by taking out insoles and laces, and then go on using a soft-bristled brush (toothbrush or sneaker cleaning brush) and a few drops of pH-neutral soap mixed with warm water. Gently brush the mesh upper, midsole, and outsole, paying special attention to dirty parts. 

Don’t soak the shoes, adhesives can be dissolved by excessive water. Rinse with a moist cloth and dry in air, filled with paper towels to prevent loss of form. Washing in this manner conserves cushioning, adhesives, and fabric integrity superior to machine washing. 

2. Spot Cleaning

If your shoes need only a light touch-up, then spot cleaning is the answer. Use a specialty sneaker cleaning wipe or a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with a mild soap solution. Clean stained areas, gently dabbing without rubbing so as not to damage the fabric. For heavier stains (like mud or grass stains), a soft brush comes in handy for loosening dirt without harsh scrubbing. This method is ideal for maintaining the day-to-day cleanliness between deeper washes.

3. Shoe Cleaning Kits

Worth spending money on a high-quality sneaker cleaning kit (such as Crep Protect, Jason Markk, or Reshoevn8r) that thoroughly cleans without water damage.The kits usually contain gentle cleaning solution, soft-bristled brushes, and microfiber cloths designed for tech shoes. Formulas are developed to dissolve dirt without damaging adhesives and technical materials.

Use the cleaner, scrub, and wipe clean—no rinse necessary. Most kits also contain protective sprays to inhibit future stains. 

4. Steam Cleaning 

For a dry deep clean, a handheld steamer will sanitize and revive shoes without diminishing adhesive strength. Heat loosens dirt without eliminating odor-carrying bacteria. Hold the steamer several inches from the material and gently rock it back and forth to prevent overheating a specific area. 

Follow with a dry brush to brush away loosened debris. This is particularly good advice for shoes that have waterproof membranes and should not be wetted.

5. Baking Soda & Vinegar

If odors are the worst problem, white vinegar and baking soda provide a chemical-free solution. For uppers, dust with baking soda inside the shoes and leave overnight to soak up odors. For insoles, mix baking soda and water to a paste, scrub gently, then rinse. For lingering odors, a light spritz of diluted white vinegar (1:1 water) kills bacteria—just make sure to dry thoroughly afterwards so as not to leave lingering vinegar smell.

6. Ultrasonic Cleaning

Some special sneaker shops offer ultrasonic cleaning, which uses high-frequency sound waves to dislodge dirt without physical scrubbing. While not practical for home use, it’s worth considering for rare, heavily soiled shoes you’re hesitant to wash yourself. The process is gentle on materials but highly effective for ingrained dirt.

Tip To Maintain On Cloud Shoes After Wash 

Good care is the secret to keeping the performance and looks of your On Cloud shoes in tip-top condition. 

• Click the soles together after every use to shed loose dirt and dust, without blocking the CloudTec pods. Keep them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, which causes fading colors and breakdown of materials.
• For odor prevention, alternate between pairs to permit correct air drying and also use cedar shoe trees or moisture-wicking inserts. Check the shoes often for wear such as smooth tread or compressed cushions, which are signs that perhaps it is time to replace them.
• Avoid making the uppers look flat, remove as soon as visible stains with a damp cloth and do not let dirt set. Do not walk in heavy rains or muddy trails unless they are waterproof versions because too much water would compromise the foams and adhesives. Store them full with tissue paper when they are not used to keep them in shape and dry.
• By simply embracing these habits, you will greatly extend the life of your shoes without sacrificing their inherent lightweight ease of wear and feel.

Conclusion

Cloud shoes are designed to work, and the right maintenance enables them to continue to keep their signature comfort and durability. Machine washing is dangerous, but hand washing, spot cleaning, and sneaker-specific cleaners provide safer, better methods to clean them. Proper maintenance such as on-time stain treatment, drying correctly, and rotation of pairs can make a massive difference in their lifespan. 

For odors or stains on sets, professional ultrasonic cleaning or steam cleaning might be worth the cost.  Really, the best method is up to the state of your shoe and how much you care about their long-term performance. If you’re unsure, always choose cleaner methods and follow On’s official care guidelines. Proper care will keep your On Clouds light, responsive, and fresh-looking for hundreds of miles.

FAQS

Can I machine wash my On Cloud shoes safely?

Possible, but not advised by On Running. Potentially harmful to adhesives, cushioning, and fabrics. Hand washing is safer.

How do I hand wash properly?

Soft brush, mild soap, and lukewarm water. Massage the upper, midsole, and outsole gently. Rinse with a damp cloth and never fully immerse.

How can I avoid sole separation?

Stay away from hot water, rough scrubbing, and prolonged soaking. Air dry only—heat degrades adhesives.