The Top 3 Machine Washable Shoe Brands for Women

By Jill Gulick

The Machine Washable Shoe Craze

People used to think that I was crazy to put dirty shoes in the washing machine. But now with the advent of forward-thinking sustainable shoe companies using recycled materials for their products, I'm glad to say that it's easier than ever and people are finally catching on. Not to mention, who likes to pack dirty shoes in their luggage? Yes, I know maybe I am a bit OCD, but seriously if you could pack shoes that you know are clean in with your clean clothes wouldn't you jump at the chance to purchase a pair of these shoes? Better yet, you can wash them when they get dirty so just when you think you need to buy a new pair of shoes you pop them in the washing machine and before you know it, your "old" shoes look new again. What a fantastic way to save some money! Here are my "Top 3 List of Machine Washable Shoe Brands for Women. 

1. ROTHY'S 

Rothy's is an amazing company that prides itself on quality, attention to detail, and customer service. This is quite impressive for a company that uses recycled materials to make comfortable high-fashion shoes that can easily be thrown in the washing machine. After purchasing my first pair, wearing them several days in a row as they were super comfortable, and throwing them in the washing machine, I suddenly realized I had purchased the first shoes I would classify as a "game changer". Not long after, I ordered another pair and now I own several. They are not only comfortable and washable, but they are stylish too. I get more compliments on them than on any other shoes I wear. Rothy's is an easy choice for the number one spot on this list. 

2. allbirds 

"Allbirds" is an admirable company renowned for its commitment to sustainability. Their retail stores offer an enjoyable shopping experience other than finding the correct size in stock. No worries because if you can't find them in-store, they will help you order them and they will be delivered to your door in just a few days. One of the most unique features of a pair of "Allbirds" is how they easily fit in a suitcase when traveling. This with their extensive range of styles and aesthetic appeal earns them a well-deserved position on this list.

3. VIVAIA

Emerging onto the machine-washable footwear scene is Vivaia (pronounced Vi-Vai-Yah). I was first introduced to Vivaia by a friend who raved about the comfort and fit. True to her word, slipping into my first pair felt like donning a well-loved pair of sneakers from day one—a revelation for those accustomed to enduring tight-fitting shoes. Beyond comfort, Vivaia's sustainability ethos aligns seamlessly with industry leaders, further enhancing their appeal. This brand is great for those who tend to wear a wide-width shoe as their shoes seem to run a bit on the wider side. Boasting a diverse range of styles, they secure a well-deserved third place on this list. 

Honorable Mention: Sketchers

"Sketchers" is a major brand that is testing the machine washable market and this will push the market to new levels, but time will tell if they'll keep up on the sustainability side as well. While "Sketchers" is known for making wide-sized sneakers, the flats that I wanted didn't come in wider sizes so I had to go up a half size to make them fit better. Nonetheless, I'm excited that Sketchers is in the game.     

Worth Noting: Knockoffs

It's worth mentioning that I've ordered a couple of knock-off brands online. I would stay away from these cheaply made shoes at all costs as none of them were made with any quality in mind and were extremely small. So much so that I couldn't even fit my foot in all but one, and the one that fit seemed like I put on a plastic bottle. You've been warned!   

Conclusion: An Exciting Time for the Shoe Industry

The machine-washable shoe craze is in full swing and this will influence other fashion categories. These companies are leading the way in trying to do their part in sustainability which not only impacts our lives positively, but makes a huge impact on our planet.