How to Wash Allbirds: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining Your Allbirds Shoes
Allbirds is a popular shoe brand known for their specialized casual shoes made from eucalyptus fibers, wool, or a blend of eucalyptus and wool. To keep your Allbirds shoes fresh, clean, and looking as good as new, it’s important to follow the proper washing instructions.
Most Allbirds can be machine washed, with the exception of the water-repellant Mizzle collection. The basic steps for washing Allbirds include removing the laces and insoles, spot cleaning stains, using a gentle detergent, and air-drying the shoes. It’s also recommended to hand wash the insoles and laces separately. By following these steps, you can maintain the quality and longevity of your Allbirds shoes.
Key Takeaways:
- Follow the proper washing instructions to keep your Allbirds shoes clean and fresh.
- Most Allbirds shoes can be machine washed, except for the water-repellant Mizzle collection.
- Remove the laces and insoles before washing and spot clean any stains.
- Use a gentle detergent and air-dry the shoes to maintain their quality and longevity.
- Hand wash the insoles and laces separately for best results.
Machine Washing Allbirds
When it comes to machine washing your Allbirds sneakers, it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure they come out clean and undamaged. Start by removing the inner soles and laces from the shoes. This will prevent any tangling or potential damage during the washing process. To remove dirt or stains from the fabric, use a soft-bristled nylon brush and gently scrub the affected areas.
If you’re dealing with heavy soil or food stains, don’t worry. Simply apply a small amount of gentle laundry detergent directly to the stains and work it in with the brush. This will help break up the stains and make them easier to remove. Next, place your shoes in a mesh delicates bag or an old pillowcase to protect them during the wash cycle.
When it comes to the actual washing, use cold water on the gentle cycle with a mild detergent recommended for delicates or wool. Avoid using chlorine bleach or fabric softeners, as these can cause damage to the fabric. After the wash, it’s important to let your Allbirds air dry on a drying rack. Avoid using a dryer or applying direct heat, as this can cause shrinkage or other damage to your shoes. By following these steps, you can keep your Allbirds clean and fresh for a long time to come.
| Machine Washing Allbirds: Step-by-Step Guide |
|---|
| 1. Remove inner soles and laces from shoes. |
| 2. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and stains. |
| 3. Apply a small amount of gentle detergent to heavy stains. |
| 4. Place shoes in a delicates bag or pillowcase. |
| 5. Wash on the gentle cycle in cold water with a mild detergent. |
| 6. Air dry shoes on a drying rack, avoiding direct heat. |
Hand Washing Insoles and Laces
In addition to machine washing your Allbirds shoes, it’s important to give special care to the insoles and laces. Hand washing these components separately will help maintain their quality and extend their lifespan. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to hand wash your Allbirds insoles and laces:
Hand Washing Insoles
- Fill a sink with lukewarm water and add a few drops of gentle detergent.
- Gently agitate the water to create suds.
- Place the insoles in the sink, making sure to apply the detergent to the wool layer.
- Use your fingers to work the detergent into the insoles, focusing on any stained areas.
- Rinse the insoles thoroughly with warm or cool water to remove all traces of detergent.
- Blot the insoles between layers of a towel to remove excess moisture.
- Allow the insoles to air dry outside of the shoes. Avoid placing them in a dryer, as the heat can damage the foam.
Hand Washing Laces
- Mix warm water with a few drops of laundry detergent in a bowl or sink.
- Place the laces in the soapy solution and let them soak for at least 15 minutes.
- Squeeze the soapy solution through the laces to remove dirt and stains.
- Rinse the laces thoroughly with warm or cool water.
- Hang the laces to air dry.
By following these hand washing instructions, you can ensure that your Allbirds insoles and laces remain clean and fresh. Taking the time to care for these components will contribute to the overall maintenance of your Allbirds shoes, allowing you to enjoy them for longer.
| Hand Washing Insoles | Hand Washing Laces |
|---|---|
| Fill a sink with lukewarm water and add a few drops of gentle detergent. | Mix warm water with a few drops of laundry detergent in a bowl or sink. |
| Gently agitate the water to create suds. | Place the laces in the soapy solution and let them soak for at least 15 minutes. |
| Place the insoles in the sink, making sure to apply the detergent to the wool layer. | Squeeze the soapy solution through the laces to remove dirt and stains. |
| Use your fingers to work the detergent into the insoles, focusing on any stained areas. | Rinse the laces thoroughly with warm or cool water. |
| Rinse the insoles thoroughly with warm or cool water to remove all traces of detergent. | Hang the laces to air dry. |
| Blot the insoles between layers of a towel to remove excess moisture. | |
| Allow the insoles to air dry outside of the shoes. |
Tips for Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are key to keeping your Allbirds shoes looking their best and lasting as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you maintain the quality of your Allbirds:
- Pretreat stains: Before washing your Allbirds, treat any stains by applying a small dab of gentle laundry detergent and using a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the affected area. This will help remove and loosen the stain.
- Dry thoroughly between wears: To allow the fibers in your Allbirds shoes to recover and prevent odor buildup, make sure to dry them thoroughly between wears. This can be done by leaving them in a well-ventilated area or using a shoe tree to maintain their shape.
- Store in a breathable bag: When not in use, it’s best to store your Allbirds sneakers in a breathable cotton bag. This will protect them from dust while still allowing air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid going sockless: To reduce the need for frequent washing, it’s recommended to wear socks with your Allbirds shoes. This helps prevent sweat buildup, which can lead to odors and the need for more frequent cleaning.
- Avoid chlorine bleach: Never use chlorine bleach on your Allbirds sneakers, as it can damage the fabric. Stick to gentler detergents and cleaning methods to preserve the quality of your shoes.
- Freshen up: If your Allbirds start to develop odors, there are a few tricks you can try. Sprinkle the inside of your shoes with baking soda and let it sit overnight to absorb odors. Additionally, storing them with dryer sheets or wiping them down with rubbing alcohol or vinegar can help freshen them up.
- Contact the company for heavy soiling: If your Allbirds shoes are heavily soiled and the above methods don’t suffice, consider reaching out to the company directly for repair or replacement options. They may be able to provide further assistance in restoring your shoes.
Suggested Cleaning Schedule for Allbirds Shoes:
| Type of Allbirds | Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| Wool | Every 4-6 weeks or as needed |
| Eucalyptus (TENCEL™ Lyocell) | Every 2-3 weeks or as needed |
| Blends (Wool and TENCEL™) | Every 3-4 weeks or as needed |
Following these care and maintenance tips will help extend the lifespan of your Allbirds shoes and ensure they continue to look and feel great. By incorporating these practices into your shoe care routine, you can enjoy your Allbirds for many adventures to come.
The Eco-Friendly Story Behind Allbirds
Allbirds is more than just a shoe company – it’s a brand committed to sustainability and environmental consciousness. Founded in 2014 by Tim Brown and Joey Zwillinger, Allbirds strives to create shoes that are not only stylish and comfortable but also kind to the planet. From the choice of materials to the manufacturing process, every aspect of Allbirds shoes reflects their eco-friendly values.
One of the key principles behind Allbirds is the use of renewable materials. The shoes are crafted from eucalyptus fibers, wool, and a blend of eucalyptus and wool. These materials not only provide a soft and breathable feel but are also sustainably sourced. In addition, the company uses recycled rubber for the soles and plant-oil-based foam for the insoles, further reducing their carbon footprint.
By choosing Allbirds, you can make a positive impact on the environment without compromising on style or comfort. The brand’s commitment to sustainability offers a guilt-free option for those who are conscious of their environmental impact and want to support companies that prioritize eco-friendly practices. With Allbirds, you can walk confidently, knowing that your shoes are not only fashionable but also environmentally friendly.
FAQ
How do I wash my Allbirds shoes?
Most Allbirds can be machine washed, except for the water-repellant Mizzle collection. Remove the laces and insoles, spot clean stains, wash in cold water with a gentle detergent, and air dry.
Can I machine wash my Allbirds sneakers?
Yes, most styles of Allbirds sneakers, such as wool, eucalyptus, and wool and TENCEL™ blends, can be safely machine washed. Follow the proper washing instructions to maintain the quality and longevity of your shoes.
How do I hand wash my Allbirds insoles and laces?
For the insoles, fill a sink with lukewarm water and gentle detergent, agitate the water to create suds, work the detergent into the insoles, rinse well, and air dry. For the laces, soak them in warm water with a few drops of detergent, squeeze out dirt, rinse, and air dry.
What are some tips for caring and maintaining my Allbirds shoes?
Pretreat stains, dry your shoes thoroughly between wears, store them in a breathable cotton bag, avoid wearing them without socks, and refrain from using chlorine bleach. You can also use baking soda, dryer sheets, or rubbing alcohol to combat odors.
What is the story behind Allbirds and their eco-friendly approach?
Allbirds is a shoe company focused on creating shoes with minimal carbon footprint. They use renewable materials like eucalyptus and wool fibers, recycled rubber soles, and plant-oil-based foam insoles to provide environmentally friendly options.
