MIDISHI M1

Cleaning sneakers by hand is slow, and drying them can take a day or more, longer still in humid weather, when lingering moisture invites mold and odor. MIDISHI M1 aims to automate the whole job: load the shoes, pick a mode, and the machine handles washing, spin-drying, drying and sanitizing in sequence. The maker says a full cycle brings shoes to a usable state within 30 minutes, without damaging the materials.

How it cleans and dries

Inside the drum, multiple brushes are arranged to reach the upper, the underside and the area around the collar. According to the maker, brush materials and rotation speeds are tuned so the machine can handle fabric, synthetic leather and mesh shoes. After a high-speed spin removes water, drying runs in either warm-air mode, suggested for winter, thick sneakers or very wet shoes, or cool-air mode, intended for summer, thin materials or heat-sensitive shoes. The maker says air is circulated through the inside of the shoe to avoid leftover moisture.

For hygiene, MIDISHI M1 pairs UVC light with silver ions. The maker claims this combination suppresses more than 99% of bacteria inside the shoe and removes odor.

Key specifications, according to the maker

• Four modes: Quick Wash, Standard, Deep Wash and Self-Cleaning
• Water use of 8–10 liters per wash
• Drum interior of approximately 32cm long and approximately 28cm wide; fits regular sneakers up to men's US size 14, and some US size 15 shoes depending on shape, width, height and sole thickness
• Capacity of up to 2 pairs of adult shoes or up to 3 pairs of children's shoes
• Automatic water supply via an inlet hose connected to a tap, or manual filling
• Built-in drainage that expels wastewater through a drain hose during the cycle
• Operating noise of 55dB

The maker recommends washing wide, thick-soled, high-top or bulky shoes one pair at a time for better results, and placing the unit on a flat surface to limit vibration. Its compact, lightweight body is described as suitable for bathrooms, balconies or a spot next to the washing machine, and small enough to store in a closet or cupboard.