How to Prevent Laces from Curling After Machine Washing

You throw your shoes into the wash, thinking you’re about to walk out with a fresh, squeaky-clean pair. But when the cycle ends, what do you find? Your laces are now curly, twisted, and look like they’ve been through a tornado. It’s frustrating—especially if you're into keeping your sneakers crisp.

Maintaining the shape and texture of shoelaces might sound like a small thing, but anyone who takes pride in their kicks knows the devil is in the details. Curled laces ruin the clean aesthetic and make lacing a hassle. The good news? It’s avoidable.

This guide is all about smart lace care—why curling happens after machine washing, and more importantly, how to stop it before it starts.

Understanding Lace Materials

Common Lace Fabrics

Let’s start with the basics. Not all laces are created equal, and different fabrics react differently to washing.

• Cotton: Super soft, easily washable, and breathable. But it tends to wrinkle and curl if not dried properly.

• Polyester: Durable and water-resistant. Less prone to curling but still needs some care.

• Nylon: Lightweight and flexible. Can warp or twist with excess heat.

Weave Structures

The structure of the weave matters just as much as the fabric. Tight weaves stay flat longer, while loose ones curl faster after they soak and dry unevenly.

• Flat laces: Wider surface area, more prone to wrinkling if not laid flat.

• Round/rope laces: Tend to tangle during machine cycles.

• Oval laces: A mix of both—can curl or flatten based on treatment.

Knowing what type you're working with helps you pick the right cleaning method.

Causes of Lace Curling

So why does this annoying curling happen anyway?

Heat Exposure During Drying

Heat is the main culprit. Tossing laces in the dryer or letting them sit near a heater causes the fibers to shrink or twist, especially with cotton and nylon.

Improper Washing Techniques

Letting laces whip around freely in the washer? That’s a recipe for kinks. Aggressive spin cycles tangle laces, stretch fibers, and leave them drying into permanent spirals.

Material-Specific Reactions

Cotton soaks up water fast, which causes uneven stretching. Nylon gets too soft when wet, then stiffens up weird when dried without tension.

Pre-Wash Preparation

The steps you take before washing are what really matter.

Materials Needed

• Mesh laundry bag (absolute must-have)

• Mild detergent (non-bleach, non-acidic)

• Soft brush (an old toothbrush works)

• Cold water

Preparation Steps

1. Remove the laces from the shoes. This gives them full exposure to cleaning agents and helps prevent knots.

2. Dry brush any visible dirt or grime. No need to soak what you can easily scrub off first.

3. Place the laces in a mesh laundry bag. This stops them from twisting around other items and damaging the weave.

Washing Techniques

Machine Washing

If you're committed to using a washing machine, keep it gentle.

• Use cold water only. Hot water loosens fibers.

• Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle. Low spin = less tangle.

• Toss the mesh bag in with other soft garments (like tees or hoodies) to cushion the impact.

• Avoid bleach, heavy-duty detergents, or fabric softeners. These weaken the lace over time.

Hand Washing (Highly Recommended)

1. Mix cold water with a splash of mild detergent.

2. Let the laces soak for 10-15 minutes.

3. Gently scrub with a soft brush.

4. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.

Hand washing gives you more control and is much gentler on the fabric.

Drying Methods to Prevent Curling

This is the most important part if you want to avoid crunchy, curly laces.

Air Drying

• Lay the laces flat on a towel. Use your fingers to gently smooth them into shape.

• Avoid direct sunlight and heaters. UV and heat warp the material.

Shaping Techniques

• Use clips, binder clips, or small weights. Attach one at each end to hold the lace taut.

• Wrap them in a towel and press. This absorbs moisture while keeping the laces flat.

• Hang vertically with light tension. Gravity helps maintain a straight shape.

Avoid clothes dryers entirely if you're after perfect flat laces.

Post-Wash Maintenance

Storage Tips

• Always store laces flat in a drawer or gently coiled.

• Avoid stuffing them into shoes when damp—they’ll dry curled.

• Use small organizers or resealable pouches if you swap out laces frequently.

Regular Care

• Set a monthly or bi-monthly cleaning schedule.

• Inspect laces for fraying, discoloration, or lost aglets.

• Replace when necessary, especially if tension gets uneven—it affects how the lace sits when tied.

And if you’re looking to expand your lace game, shops like Lace Lab carry flat, rope, and specialty styles built for everything from Jordans to Ultra Boosts.

It’s wild how something as small as curled laces can mess up the whole vibe of your sneakers. But the fix is easy: prep smart, wash gently, and dry with intention.

A little lace care goes a long way—whether you're keeping your all-whites crisp or just making sure your everyday beaters stay fly. And when it’s time to upgrade, there are quality options out there (Lace Lab, for example) with sizing and finishes that match your kicks to a tee.

So next time you're about to toss your shoes in the wash, pause for a sec. Follow these steps, and your laces will thank you.

FAQs

Can I iron my laces to remove curls?

Yes, but only on low heat. Place a cloth over the laces and gently press. Don’t apply direct heat, especially on synthetic materials.

How often should I wash my shoelaces?

Depends on wear. Once a month for everyday sneakers is a good rule. For dress shoes, less frequently.

Is it safe to use fabric softener on laces?

Not really. It can coat the fibers, making them stiff or sticky over time. Stick to mild detergent.

What is the best way to store laces to prevent curling?

Store them flat or loosely coiled in a cool, dry space. Avoid tight wrapping or stuffing in confined spaces.

Can I use a hairdryer to speed up drying?

Technically yes, but only on the lowest heat setting and from a distance. Too much heat = curling risk.

Are there specific laces that are less prone to curling?

Flat polyester laces with tight weaves hold shape better. Specialty laces from places like Lace Lab are often built to resist curling.

How do I straighten laces that have already curled?

Soak them in water, roll them in a towel, and dry flat with weights. You can also lightly iron with a cloth over them.

Does the color of the lace affect its tendency to curl?

Not really. But darker dyes might absorb more heat, which can exaggerate curling if drying conditions aren’t controlled.