If you’ve ever looked down at your favorite pair of Hey Dudes and wondered if tossing them in the washing machine is safe, you’re not alone. These comfy, casual shoes are known for getting plenty of mileage—and, sometimes, dirt.
Knowing whether you can machine wash Hey Dudes is key to keeping them fresh without damage. In this article, we’ll answer this common question, walk you through the best cleaning steps, and share tips to keep your shoes looking new.
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Can You Wash Hey Dudes in the Washing Machine? A Complete Guide
Wearing Hey Dude shoes is all about comfort and laid-back style. But even the most relaxed footwear can use a good cleaning now and then. If you’re staring at your well-loved (and a little dirty) pair, you may be wondering: Can you safely wash Hey Dudes in the washing machine?
Let’s walk through the answer in detail and arm you with everything you need to know to keep your Hey Dude shoes looking and smelling fresh, all year round.
The Clear Answer: Can Hey Dudes Go in the Washing Machine?
Yes, most Hey Dude shoes—especially the classic canvas models—can be washed in the washing machine. Washing your Hey Dudes in the machine is a convenient and effective way to clean off stains, dirt, and odors. However, you should always first check the care label in your specific pair and consider the material (canvas, suede, leather, or wool), as certain types of Hey Dudes require special care.
Let’s break it down by material:
- Canvas Hey Dudes: Usually safe for the washing machine.
- Suede, Leather, and Wool Hey Dudes: Should not go in the washer; instead, opt for hand cleaning.
If you’re dealing with traditional canvas Hey Dudes, you’re good to go for a machine wash—with a few precautions and tips.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Hey Dudes in the Washing Machine
Taking a little care before you toss your Hey Dudes in the washer helps protect their structure, color, and lifespan. Here’s a detailed, foolproof process:
1. Preparation
Remove Excess Dirt
– Tap the shoes together outside to knock off loose dirt or debris.
– Use a soft brush or cloth to gently wipe away what remains.
Take Out Insoles and Laces
– Remove the memory foam insoles and laces. These should be washed separately by hand to avoid any damage.
2. Getting Ready for the Machine
Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
– Place your Hey Dudes inside a mesh laundry bag or an old pillowcase. This keeps them from banging around and reduces wear.
Choose the Right Load
– Wash your shoes with a few towels or similar items. This balances the load and cushions the shoes.
3. Washing
Select the Appropriate Cycle
– Set your machine to a gentle, cold water cycle. Hot water can warp materials and glue.
Add Detergent Carefully
– Use a mild, liquid detergent—never bleach or harsh chemicals.
Start the Wash
– Close the machine and let it run its course.
4. Drying
Never Use the Dryer
– High heat can damage the shoe’s structure and cause shrinking. Skip the dryer!
Air Dry
– Stuff your shoes with white paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain shape.
– Let them air dry in a well-ventilated spot, out of direct sunlight or heat sources.
Important Points, Benefits, and Challenges
Key Benefits of Machine Washing Hey Dudes
- Time-Saving: Cleans both shoes thoroughly, inside and out, at once.
- Convenience: No need for deep scrubbing or special cleaning products.
- Effective: Removes odors and tough stains that can linger with spot cleaning.
Potential Challenges
- Risk of Damage: Aggressive cycles, hot water, or harsh detergents can weaken the materials or discolor your shoes.
- Not for All Materials: Suede, leather, and wool Hey Dudes can be ruined in the machine. For these, hand cleaning is the way to go!
- Shape Loss: Without stuffing or careful drying, Hey Dudes may lose their form as they dry.
Best Practices and Pro Cleaning Tips
To get the most out of your cleaning session, keep these expert tips in mind:
Before Washing
- Always Read the Label: Manufacturer care instructions trump general advice.
- Remove Accessories: Pull out memory foam insoles and laces to prevent distortion or soap buildup.
- Spot Treat Stains: If you have stubborn spots, gently treat with a soft brush and diluted mild detergent before tossing them in the washer.
During Washing
- Cold Is King: Warm or hot water can ruin the glue and materials.
- Gentle Cycle Only: Regular or heavy cycles spin too harshly for lightweight shoes like Hey Dudes.
- Minimal Detergent: Excess soap may not fully rinse out, so stick to a small amount.
After Washing
- Shape Support: Fill the shoes with white paper towels or shoe shapers as they dry.
- Patience Pays: Air drying takes time but keeps your shoes in great condition.
- Odor Control: Adding a sprinkle of baking soda inside after drying can help with any lingering odors.
Special Considerations for Different Hey Dude Materials
Not all Hey Dude shoes are created equal! Here’s how to handle alternative materials:
Suede and Leather
- No Washing Machine: Water and agitation can ruin suede and leather. Instead, brush off any dirt using a soft brush.
- Spot Clean: Use a specialized suede or leather cleaner for spots and stains.
Wool
- No Machine Wash: Like suede and leather, wool should be hand-cleaned only. Brush off dirty areas and clean gently with a damp cloth.
Handwashing: A Quick How-To for Delicate Hey Dudes
If your shoes aren’t machine-safe, here’s how you can still keep them clean:
- Remove debris: Brush off surface dirt.
- Prepare a solution: Mix water with a small amount of mild detergent or gentle soap.
- Gently scrub: Use a soft cloth or brush in small circles on stains or dirty areas.
- Rinse with a damp cloth: Wipe off detergent residue.
- Air dry: Stuff shoes to maintain shape and let them dry out of the sun.
Keeping Hey Dudes Looking Fresh: Maintenance Tips
A little care goes a long way in extending the life of your Hey Dudes:
- Regular shaking and brushing: Remove dust and prevent buildup.
- Spot clean as needed: Don’t let stains sit.
- Alternate pairs: Give each pair time to air out and recover between wears.
- Use odor-fighting insoles: Swap them out as necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use bleach: It damages fabric and causes color fading.
- Don’t tumble dry: Heat can shrink shoes and break down adhesives.
- Don’t wash with rough or heavy items: They can scuff or deform your Hey Dudes.
- Don’t skip the mesh bag: Protection during washing matters!
Final Takeaway
Washing your Hey Dude canvas shoes in the machine is both simple and effective, as long as you follow the proper steps: remove insoles and laces, use a laundry bag, choose a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, and always air dry. For suede, leather, or wool Hey Dudes, stick to hand cleaning to avoid accidental damage.
With the right care, your favorite shoes will stay looking and feeling their best—ready for any adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put my Hey Dudes in the dryer after washing?
No, you should never use a dryer for Hey Dudes! The heat can warp the shape, damage the memory foam insoles, and even cause the glue to come loose. Always let them air dry naturally.
2. Is it okay to use bleach or stain remover on my Hey Dudes?
Bleach and harsh stain removers are not recommended, as they can damage the fabric and fade the color of your shoes. Use only mild detergent and spot clean tough stains with care.
3. What if my Hey Dudes are made of suede or leather?
Suede and leather Hey Dudes should never go in the washing machine. Instead, use a soft brush to remove dust and spot clean with a dedicated cleaner appropriate for these materials.
4. Can I wash Hey Dudes insoles and laces in the washing machine?
It’s best to wash the insoles and laces separately by hand. Soak them in soapy water, gently scrub, rinse thoroughly, and air dry before putting them back in your clean shoes.
5. How often can I machine wash my Hey Dudes without ruining them?
Machine washing Hey Dudes occasionally (every few months or as needed) is fine for canvas models. Frequent washing may shorten their lifespan, so try to spot clean between full washes to keep them fresh longer.
With these tips and best practices, your Hey Dude shoes can stay stylish, comfortable, and clean—the perfect companions for your everyday adventures.