Allbirds shoes blend comfort with eco-friendly materials, but they still need careful cleaning. This quick guide shows how to wash allbirds shoes without losing softness or color. Follow these steps for fresh kicks that stay true to their sustainable vibe.
First, remove laces and, if possible, insoles. Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth. Set aside to prep for washing.
Mix cold water with a small amount of mild detergent in a basin. Gently scrub the shoes with a soft brush, focusing on stains. Avoid soaking the entire shoe for too long to protect the fibers.
Rinse with clean cold water or wipe away soap with a damp cloth. Allow the shoes to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Stuff them with paper or a towel to help retain shape.
Know Your Allbirds Material and Model
Tree-Based Uppers
Allbirds Tree-based uppers are built from eucalyptus tree fibers, offering a soft, breathable, and lightweight feel. This fiber is naturally moisture-wicking, which helps keep feet cooler in warm weather and reduces sweat buildup during daily wear. Because the upper is knit and relatively delicate, careful cleaning is essential to maintain shape and comfort over time.
The care approach for Tree uppers balances cleanliness with fabric longevity. Gentle handling, cold water, and mild detergents minimize fiber fatigue and color fading. Before cleaning, remove laces and insoles to expose all areas of the upper, and inspect seams for any loose threads that could worsen with agitation. By treating Tree uppers with patience, you preserve softness and fit while avoiding pilling or stretching that can occur with aggressive scrubbing.
- Use cold water and a mild detergent formulated for delicates.
- Avoid hot water, bleach, and fabric softeners which can degrade the knit.
- Air-dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent shrinkage or distortion.
Wool-Based Uppers
Wool-based Allbirds models pair wool with a soft, comfortable knit, offering warmth and a moisture-wicking property that helps regulate temperature. Wool fibers are more sensitive to aggressive agitation and heat, so care routines for these models emphasize gentleness and restraint. When cleaning wool uppers, you must protect the fiber integrity to prevent shrinking and distortion.
Because wool holds onto water, a rigorous soaking can cause the fibers to matt or felt, changing texture and fit. If you must clean wool uppers, opt for hand washing with a mild, wool-specific detergent or a gentle, pH-neutral product. After washing, avoid wringing; instead, press out water with a towel and lay flat or shape while air drying to preserve the knit’s structure and appearance.
- Avoid machine washing unless manufacturer guidance explicitly confirms it for your model.
- Use a detergent designed for wool or delicates to protect fiber integrity.
- Dry flat or on a clean surface to maintain the shoe’s shape; do not tumble dry.
Cleaning Prep: Tools, Stains, and Quick Prep
Pre-Clean Steps and Dirt Removal
Start with a dry brush or microfiber cloth to remove surface dirt before any moisture touches the fabric. Brushing helps lift dust and grit that could grind into the knit during washing, reducing pilling and staining. For stubborn spots, apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stain and let it sit for a minute before brushing gently.
If you’re dealing with white soles or light colors, a light paste of baking soda and water can provide extra lift. Apply softly with a toothbrush, then wipe away with a damp cloth. This pre-clean approach reduces the amount of time the cleaner needs to work and minimizes the risk of color transfer during washing.
- Inspect soles for embedded grit and remove with a soft brush.
- Test any cleaner on a hidden area to ensure no color bleeding.
- Work in small sections to avoid spreading stains to untouched areas.
Laces, Insoles, and Hardware Preparation
Laces are often the dirtiest part and benefit from a separate wash cycle. Remove laces and wash them by hand in warm water with a mild detergent, or place them in a mesh bag and run a gentle cycle. For most Allbirds models, insoles can be cleaned with a damp cloth; do not fully submerge insoles in water unless they are explicitly rated as washable by the manufacturer.
After removal, inspect the laces for fraying and consider replacement if they are worn. This step prevents the laces from catching on the knit during washing and helps maintain overall shoe aesthetics post-clean. Allow both laces and insoles to air dry completely before reassembly to avoid trapping moisture inside the shoe.
- Soak laces briefly in mild detergent and rinse well.
- Wipe insoles with a damp cloth and air dry separately.
- Store laces out of the way to avoid tangling during the main wash.
Washing Methods: Machine Washing Guidelines
When Machine Washing Is Appropriate
Machine washing can be appropriate for many Allbirds Tree-based models when done with care and according to the manufacturer’s guidance. It’s generally safer for non-wool uppers and when you need to refresh shoes with heavy surface grime. Always verify model-specific care instructions before proceeding, since wool and some specialty fabrics require gentler treatment or hand washing only.
To minimize risk, use a dedicated laundry bag, avoid mixing with other items that could snag the knit, and select a cold, gentle cycle. The goal is to cleanse without breaking down the knit structure or distorting the shape. If you notice loose threads or seams after washing, consider stopping the cycle early and inspecting the damage to prevent further issues.
- Place shoes and laces in a mesh laundry bag to protect the knit.
- Run on cold water with a gentle cycle and no heavy spin settings.
- Avoid washing with bulky items like towels that could cause friction.
Machine Washing Steps for Safe Results
Begin by removing laces and insoles, then brush away loose dirt from the shoe exterior. Put the shoes in a mesh laundry bag and add a small amount of mild detergent. Set the machine to cold water on a delicate cycle, and use a gentle spin if your machine offers it. After washing, remove the bag and let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat.
Do not use bleach or fabric softeners, which can degrade fibers and alter color. If your machine offers extra rinse cycles, enable one to ensure all detergent residues are flushed out. Finally, reassemble with clean laces and insoles once completely dry to restore the original fit and comfort.
- Avoid washing in hot water, which can shrink knit fibers.
- Do not place the shoes in the dryer; heat can distort shapes.
- Check for colorfastness on a hidden area before full wash.
Hand Washing Techniques: Sensitive and Delicate Care
Step-by-Step Hand Wash Method
For wool or highly delicate tree uppers, hand washing offers precise control. Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicates. Immerse the shoes and gently agitate, focusing on stained areas without scrubbing aggressively. After a few minutes, drain, rinse with clean cool water, and press out excess moisture without twisting.
Use a clean towel to blot dry, then reshape the shoes and stuff them with paper towels to maintain form as they air dry. Avoid wringing or squeezing, which can distort the knit. Plan for a longer drying time than machine washing, especially for wool models, to ensure the interior is completely dry before wear.
- Gently rub stains with a soft brush or cloth, never harsh abrasives.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residues that can irritate skin or cause stiffness.
- Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area to prevent color fading.
Choosing Hand Washing vs Machine Washing
Hand washing is the safer option for wool uppers or any model showing signs of delicate construction. It minimizes fiber stress and reduces the risk of elastic shrinkage or knit distortion. If you’re unsure whether your specific Allbirds model tolerates machine washing, default to hand washing and spot-clean stubborn areas instead.
Consider your environment and time: machine washing is faster and thorough for heavy soiling, but it may incur more risk for delicate materials. In tough cases, a professional cleaning service with experience in knit footwear can provide expert handling and avoid inadvertent damage. Always verify care labels before choosing a method.
- When in doubt, test on a small area first.
- Keep cleaning volume moderate to prevent fiber fatigue.
- Document the model and materials for future reference when contacting support.
Drying, Reassembly, and Shape Maintenance
Drying Guidelines and Avoiding Heat Damage
After washing, air drying is essential to preserve the knit structure and fit. Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sun or heat sources to prevent fading and fiber distortion. If you notice moisture trapped inside, stuff the shoes with paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb moisture and help maintain the original shape.
Patience is key: drying times can vary from 12 to 48 hours depending on material and thickness. For wool models, expect a longer drying period. Resist the urge to use a hair dryer or heater, which can shrink fibers or degrade elasticity. Once fully dry, you can reinsert insoles and relace the shoes with care to restore the original configuration.
- Avoid heat compressions like radiators or car dashboards during drying.
- Check the tongue and heel counter for fullness as you dry to ensure proper shape recovery.
- Do not wear until completely dry to prevent odor buildup or discomfort.
Reassembly and Fit Restoration
With cleaned and fully dry shoes, re-lace with evenly tightened knots to maintain even pressure across the vamp. Reinsert insoles if they were removed, and verify that the heel and toe boxes retain their original shape. A quick visual check will reveal any areas that may have deformed during washing; if necessary, gently reshape by hand to restore silhouette.
For laces, if they show wear, replace them with fresh laces of the same length and thickness to preserve flexibility and fit. Regular maintenance, including brief wipe-downs between washes and storage in a breathable bag, helps maintain form and cleanliness over time. This routine reduces the frequency of deep cleans while keeping shoes looking and performing well.
- Inspect after drying for any signs of distortion and adjust accordingly.
- Replace worn laces to maintain secure fit and aesthetics.
- Store in a breathable bag to minimize moisture exposure during off days.
Maintenance, Odor Control, and Storage Essentials
Odor Control and Freshening Routines
Regular maintenance reduces the need for deep cleans. Between washes, use odor absorbers like baking soda or activated charcoal placed inside the shoes overnight to neutralize moisture and odors. A light wipe with a cloth dampened in a diluted detergent solution followed by air drying can refresh the exterior without full immersion.
Airing out is more than freshness—it’s about maintaining material integrity. Leave shoes in a well-ventilated area after wear to avoid moisture buildup that can lead to mold or odor. Keeping laces and insoles dry and separate when not in use further extends the life of the knit uppers and maintains comfort during wear.
- Use odor absorbers inside footwear during storage.
- Avoid sealing footwear in plastic bags for extended periods.
- Rotate footwear to allow each pair ample drying time between uses.
Special Care for Mizzle and Other Coated Models
Mizzle models add a water-repellent coating and typically respond well to surface wipe-downs and spot cleaning. For these, avoid soaking the entire shoe, as soaking can degrade the coating over time. After cleaning, reapply a waterproofing treatment suitable for knit fabrics to restore the protective layer and maintain spill resistance.
When removing stains on coated uppers, use a soft brush and a mild detergent solution, rinsing thoroughly with a damp cloth. Dry away from heat, then apply the recommended water-repellent product to restore performance. For heavily soiled Mizzle items, consider targeted spot cleaning rather than a full wash to protect the coating integrity.
- Follow manufacturer guidance for waterproofing reapplication intervals.
- Avoid harsh chemicals that strip coatings from knit materials.
- Test cleaners on inconspicuous areas first to verify compatibility.
model-Specific Nuances You Should Know
allbirds Models Can Vary in Care Recommendations by Material Mixes and Construction. Always Check the Official Care Label or the Company’s Care Page for Model-Specific Instructions Before Proceeding. If You’re Unsure, Perform a Spot Test on a Hidden Area or Reach Out to Customer Support for Guidance to Prevent Accidental Damage.
documenting Your Model and Care Steps Helps Create a Reference for Future Cleanings. If a Particular Model Has Shown Shrinkage After Washing in the Past, Switch to Hand Washing Only and Employ Gentler Drying Methods. Keeping a Small Care Kit with Mild Detergent, a Soft Brush, and a Microfiber Cloth Makes Routine Maintenance Easier.
- record Model Name and Care Label Details for Easy Reference.
- keep a Dedicated Cleaning Kit to Streamline Routines.
- adjust Methods Based on Observed Material Response to Cleaning.
common Issues and Fixes
some Frequent Problems Include Pilling on Knits, Color Fading, and Sole Separation Due to Improper Drying. Address Pilling by Gentle Brushing with a Fabric Shaver or Fine-Grit Sandpaper, Taking Care Not to Abrade the Knit. For Color Fading, Avoid Sun Exposure During Drying and Perform Spot Cleanings Instead of Full Washes When Possible.
if You Notice Sole Separation or Loose Stitching After Washing, Evaluate the Extent. Minor Issues Can Be Addressed with Careful Hand-Stitching and Reshaping; Major Separations May Require Professional Repair. By Addressing Problems Early and Following Appropriate Care Steps, You Extend the Life and Appearance of Allbirds Shoes Effectively.
- use a Soft Brush to Deal with Pilling Without Damaging Fibers.
- avoid Prolonged Sunlight During Drying to Prevent Fading.
- seek Professional Repair for Structural Issues Beyond Basic Care.
washing Allbirds Shoes Thoughtfully Hinges on Understanding Your Model’s Material and Following a Disciplined, Gentle Routine. Start with a Careful Prep, Choose Hand Washing for Wool or Delicate Uppers, and Opt for Machine Washing Only When the Model and Manufacturer Guidance Permit. Drying Properly—air, Not Heat—preserves Shape and Comfort, While Regular Maintenance Reduces the Need for Frequent Deep Cleans. With These Practices, Your Allbirds Will Stay Fresh, Comfortable, and True to Form for Miles to Come.
Recommended Products
