Abstract: A weighted insert adapted to be fitted inside an athletic shoe so that the latter is caused to sink to the bottom of a washing machine bin to facilitate the cleaning thereof. The insert comprises a heel portion, a foot portion, and an axial member extending therebetween. The length or longitudinal extent of the axial member may be adjusted to compensate for varying sized athletic shoes to be employed therewith. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the weighted elements in the heel portion or the foot portion of the insert comprises a removable housing for a deodorizing compound or similar treating substance.