If your Hey Dude shoes are looking a bit worse for wear, you might be wondering: can you just toss them into the washing machine? After all, quick and easy cleaning is a lifesaver for busy days or muddy mishaps.
Understanding how to properly clean your favorite kicks matters—not just for looks, but for the longevity of your shoes. In this article, we’ll answer the machine-washing question, plus share step-by-step tips to keep your Hey Dude shoes looking fresh.
Related Video
Can You Wash Hey Dude Shoes in the Washing Machine?
Absolutely! Most Hey Dude shoes can be washed in the washing machine, making them a super convenient choice for everyday wearers. However, it’s important to follow specific steps to ensure your shoes come out clean, fresh, and undamaged. Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts of washing your Hey Dudes safely, the benefits, potential challenges, and practical tips to keep your kicks looking their best all year round.
Washing Hey Dude Shoes: The Essentials
Hey Dude shoes are known for their lightweight, breathable materials and flexible soles. Their comfort and casual style make them a favorite for many. One of their standout features is that many styles are designed to be machine washable. But, before you toss them into the washer, it helps to know the right way to clean them.
Not All Shoes Are the Same
- Some Hey Dude models have decorative elements or special materials (like leather or suede) that aren’t washer-friendly.
- Always check the care label inside your shoes.
- If in doubt, opt for spot-cleaning or hand washing.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Hey Dude Shoes in the Washing Machine
When it’s time to give your Hey Dudes a proper clean, follow these steps to get great results without causing any damage.
1. Prepare Your Shoes
Before washing, a little prep work goes a long way.
- Remove the insoles and laces. Insoles (the removable footbeds) can warp or lose shape in the washer, and laces are easier to clean separately.
- Shake off dirt and debris. Give your shoes a quick brush or clap them together outside to get rid of loose dirt and pebbles.
- Treat stains. For stubborn tan marks or spots, gently scrub with a mix of mild soap and water using a soft brush or cloth.
2. Protect Your Shoes
- Use a mesh laundry bag. This prevents your Hey Dudes from bouncing around inside the machine and keeps them from getting tangled with other garments.
- Wash with towels. Throw in a few old towels to balance the load and reduce impact during the wash cycle.
3. Select the Right Wash Settings
Hey Dudes aren’t as tough as boots, so gentle is the way to go.
- Cold water only. Hot water can warp or shrink the flexible fabric and soles.
- Gentle/delicate cycle. Always choose the setting that’s easiest on fabric.
- Mild detergent. Skip bleach, harsh chemicals, and fabric softeners. Use a small amount of liquid detergent instead.
4. Start Washing
Now you’re ready:
- Place your shoes (in the mesh bag), insoles, and laces in the washer.
- Add towels to cushion.
- Select cold water and gentle cycle.
- Add the recommended amount of mild detergent.
5. Dry Your Hey Dudes Properly
Drying is where many cleaning attempts go wrong—here’s how to do it right:
- Never use a dryer. High heat can misshape or ruin the shoes.
- Stuff with paper towels. This helps maintain their shape and absorbs extra moisture.
- Air dry indoors. Place your shoes in a cool, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Avoid radiators or direct heat sources.
- Let dry completely. Depending on humidity and airflow, this might take 12–24 hours.
Handwashing Hey Dude Shoes: When Machine Washing Isn’t Best
If your shoes are delicate, have sensitive decorations, or you just prefer a hands-on approach, handwashing is a safe bet.
- Remove insoles and laces.
- Fill a basin with cool, soapy water (using mild detergent).
- Gently scrub shoes inside and out with a soft brush or cloth.
- Rinse with clean water to remove soap residue.
- Air dry as described above.
Benefits of Washing Hey Dudes in the Washing Machine
Why choose the machine over handwashing (when it’s safe to do so)? Here are a few reasons:
- Time saver. Machine washing gets your shoes clean in a fraction of the time.
- Thorough clean. The agitation and water reach deep into the fabric, pulling out hidden dirt and odor.
- Easy routine. Just a few steps, and you’re done—no scrubbing required.
Challenges and What to Avoid
It’s not all smooth sailing. Here are some challenges and common mistakes to avoid:
- Damaging sensitive materials. Leather, suede, embroidered, or heavily decorated Hey Dudes shouldn’t go in the washer.
- Loss of shape. Excessive heat or rough washing can bend soles or alter fit.
- Lingering odors. If not dried thoroughly, shoes can develop a musty smell.
- Color bleeding. Bright or dark fabrics may fade or bleed if not washed carefully.
- Sole separation. On rare occasions, aggressive washing may loosen glued areas.
Pro Tips for Fresh, Clean Hey Dudes
- Always remove insoles and laces before washing.
- Use a mesh bag every time for added protection.
- Spot-treat stains as soon as you notice them—don’t wait.
- If your insoles are smelly, sprinkle them with baking soda and let sit overnight before brushing off.
- Never put Hey Dudes in the dryer or under direct sunlight to avoid shrinkage and fading.
- For stubborn odors, add a half-cup of white vinegar to the wash (but don’t use fabric softener).
- Rotate two pairs if you wear them often so each has time to fully dry between uses.
Practical Maintenance Advice
- Wash your shoes only as needed—overwashing causes premature wear.
- Use shoe trees or stuff with socks/paper when not wearing to hold their shape.
- If your Hey Dudes are mostly leather or suede, use a specialty cleaner and brush—never submerge or machine-wash them.
- To freshen up between washes, let shoes air out regularly and wipe down with a damp cloth.
When NOT to Put Hey Dudes in the Washing Machine
Some scenarios call for extra caution:
- If your shoes have delicate stitching, beads, sequins, or leather panels.
- If manufacturer instructions specifically say “hand wash only” or “do not machine wash.”
- If your shoes are heavily soiled with substances like oil or paint—these stains might require special attention.
In these cases, clean as much as possible by hand and let dry naturally.
Conclusion
Washing your Hey Dude shoes in the washing machine is both possible and easy—if you follow the right steps. Always check care tags, remove insoles and laces, use cold water, and let your shoes air dry. With proper care, your Hey Dudes will stay clean, comfortable, and fresh for many adventures to come.
Remember: not every pair is washer-friendly, and a gentle touch goes a long way. Happy cleaning!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put all Hey Dude shoes in the washing machine?
No, not all Hey Dude shoes are suitable for machine washing. Models with leather, suede, or decorative embellishments should not be machine-washed. Always check the shoe’s care label and manufacturer instructions first.
2. Should I remove the insoles before washing?
Yes, always remove the insoles and laces before washing your Hey Dudes. Wash them separately by hand to help preserve their shape and structure.
3. Can I dry Hey Dude shoes in the dryer?
No, you should never dry Hey Dudes in the dryer. The heat can cause the shoes to warp, shrink, or delaminate. Instead, air dry them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
4. My Hey Dudes have a stubborn odor. What should I do?
Try sprinkling baking soda inside the shoes and letting them sit overnight before brushing it out. You can also add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle (skip the fabric softener) to help neutralize tough odors.
5. How often should I wash my Hey Dude shoes?
Wash them only when necessary—such as when they look dirty or smell. Overwashing can wear out the fabrics and weaken the soles. For day-to-day upkeep, spot-clean stains and let your shoes air out regularly.
Caring for your Hey Dudes properly will keep them comfortable and stylish for as long as possible. Enjoy stepping out in shoes that always look—and feel—fresh!