If you've ever wondered how to keep your Hey Dudes clean, then don’t go anywhere. We’ve been writing articles about shoe cleaning for years and now, we are explaining whether you can wash your Hey Dudes in the washing machine or not.
First, a short answer:
Yes, most Hey Dudes are machine washable. You will have to remove insoles and laces first and then wash the shoes on a gentle cycle with cold water. It’s also recommended to check the care label for specific instructions.
Seems simple right?
But wait. You must do a lot of consideration in every step. If you don’t, you will ruin your Hey Dude shoes.
To avoid any frustration, read this guide till the end.
Key Points
- You can wash Hey Dudes in a washing machine.
- Always remove insoles and laces before washing.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
- Avoid bleach, hot water, and harsh chemicals when washing.
- Air dry your Hey Dudes to preserve their shape and color.
Are Hey Dudes Machine Washable? (Everything to Know)
Yes, Hey Dudes are machine washable. You can toss them in your washing machine to clean them up. Just make sure to use a gentle cycle with cold water. You may see such types of instructions on the shoe labels.
However, you will have to take care of a lot of things. For example, you must always avoid using bleach or harsh detergents. Similarly, always air dry your shoes instead of using a dryer.
The fact that you can machine wash Hey Dudes is a big plus for anyone who wears them regularly. You can now wear your shoes without any worries. If they ever get dirty, you can simply wash them in a washing machine. That’s a big relief.
Why Are Hey Dudes Machine Washable?
According to the company, Hey Dudes is designed with your convenience in mind. That’s why the materials used in these shoes are both durable and flexible. But did you know these also make the shoe machine washable?
Yes, they do!
Have a look:
Durable Materials
Hey Dudes are made from high-quality, durable materials like canvas, knit fabric, and suede. These materials are not only lightweight but also sturdy enough to endure a washing machine’s gentle cycle.
In fact, the EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) soles are resistant to water damage. This means they won’t warp or break down during a wash.
Flexible Design
The flexible design of Hey Dudes also makes them machine washable. You can’t clean most sneakers and heavy-duty boots in a washing machine because they are made of stiff leather. Luckily, Hey Dude shoes are soft and bendable.
This flexibility allows the shoes to move with the machine’s motion (without tearing or losing their shape).
That’s not it.
The stitching and bonding used in Hey Dude shoes are also strong. This ensures that the shoes don’t come apart in the wash.
Breathable and Quick-Drying
Another reason why Hey Dudes can be machine washed is their breathable and quick-drying nature. The materials used allow air to pass through. Due to this airflow, the shoes can get dry quickly.
So, you won’t have to worry about your shoes staying damp for too long.
But wait. You must wash Hey Dude properly. If you don’t, you will end up ruining them. In some cases, people were not able to wear the shoes again.
Don’t worry. We’ve got you.
How to Wash Hey Dudes in a Washing Machine? (Step-by-Step)
To wash Hey Dudes in a washing machine, you will have to do simple steps. Before we explain them, let us tell you that you must follow our instructions strictly. If you don’t, chances are you may end up damaging your shoes.
Here’s the step-by-step process:
Gather All the Needed Materials
Before you start washing your Hey Dudes, make sure you have the right materials. When you have all the things, you will be able to do all the steps without any hassle.
Here’s what you will need:
|
Materials Needed |
Purpose |
|
Mesh Laundry Bag |
Protects the shoes during the wash |
|
Mild Detergent |
Cleans the shoes without harsh chemicals |
|
Towels |
Helps maintain the shape while drying |
|
Soft Brush (optional) |
Pre-treats any tough stains |
Prepping Your Hey Dudes
After you have the materials, the next thing to do is to prepare your Hey Dudes. Start by removing the insoles and laces.
In our opinion, this step is crucial because it allows each part of the shoe to get properly cleaned. Also, note that the insoles and laces tend to collect the most dirt and sweat. So, we always recommend people to clean them separately.
If you want, you can place the laces in a mesh bag with the shoes.
Next, use a soft brush to gently scrub your Hey Dude shoes. We’ve found that doing this makes the washing more effective. If you notice any stubborn stains, you can use a mild soap or specialized cleaner in this step.
However, be gentle. In fact, do it a lot more carefully if you own suede or knit Hey Dudes.
Placing Your Shoes in the Washing Machine
Once your shoes are prepped, place them inside a mesh laundry bag. This is important. Most people use any bag but we highly recommend Mesh bags only. This bag acts as a protective layer. It will prevent the shoes from banging around in the machine.
In our experience, mesh bags also do not damage the washing machine.
But what if you don't have a mesh bag? In this situation, you can use an old pillowcase and tie the end securely.
When you do this, set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. The reason we suggest cold water is that it minimizes the risk of shrinking or damaging the fabric.
Next, add a small amount of mild detergent (just enough to clean the shoes).
After figuring out how to wash your Hey Dudes, you might want to know if they’re suitable for the beach. Learn more in Are Hey Dudes Good for the Beach? Here’s the Answer.
Drying Your Hey Dudes
After the wash cycle is complete, it's time to dry your Hey Dudes.
Important Point: Do not use a dryer, as the heat can warp the shoes and ruin their shape.
So, what to do?
We recommend air drying your Hey Dudes. It’s simple:
- Start by stuffing the shoes with clean towels. This helps them retain their shape during the drying.
- Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, which can be a balcony.
- It’s best to let the Hey Dudes dry naturally overnight.
- Once dry, reinsert the insoles and lace them up.
Your Hey Dudes should look as good as new!
For the best results, consider washing your Hey Dudes during the day. Why? Well, the temperature is warmer and the shoes can dry faster.
To ensure that your Hey Dudes dry evenly, it’s a good idea to rotate them occasionally. We suggest rotating them after every two hours.
Sometimes, your Hey Dude shoes may not dry out even after 24 hours. In some cases, the humidity levels are so high that the shoes stay wet.
If this ever happens, don’t get worried. Just be patient. The shoes will dry out after 48 hours. Don’t make the mistake of using a heating dryer or placing the Hey Dude next to a heating source.
Let’s look at all the things you should avoid when washing Hey Dudes in a washing machine.
What Should You Avoid When Washing Hey Dudes?
Before washing your Hey Dudes in a washing machine, it’s a good idea to know which things you should avoid at all costs. It’s because if you end up doing them, you will ruin your sneakers.
So, let's break down what not to do when washing your Hey Dudes.
Avoid Using Bleach or Harsh Detergents
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when washing Hey Dudes is using bleach or harsh detergents. These products are too strong for the Hey Dudes.
- Bleach can cause discoloration and weaken the fabric.
- Harsh detergents can also damage the stitching and materials.
In some cases, bleaches and harsh detergents can make tiny holes in your shoes,
Therefore, we highly suggest sticking to mild detergents that are gentle on fabrics.
Never Use Hot Water
Most people think that hot water is better. That’s a myth. In reality, hot water is actually harmful to Hey Dudes.
How?
Well, the high temperature can shrink the fabric and warp the soles. So, when you wash your shoes in hot water, they will become uncomfortable to wear. Furthermore, it can also cause the colors to fade more quickly.
Always use cold water when washing your Hey Dudes. In our experience, cold water is both gentle and effective. Experts have also told us that cold water helps preserve the shape, color, and overall integrity of the shoes.
Steer Clear of the Dryer
You should never use a dryer to dry Hey Dudes. Keep in mind that the heat from the dryer can warp the shoes. In our experience, your Hey Dudes will lose their shape when you dry them two to three times.
Instead of using a dryer, always air dry your Hey Dudes.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
When air drying your Hey Dudes, keep them away from direct sunlight. The sun’s UV rays can fade the color of your shoes.
Plus, these rays can weaken the fabric over time. This is especially important for shoes made from materials like suede or knit, which are more sensitive to sun damage.
We suggest air-drying your shoes in a shaded area. The best spots are:
- Shaded Outdoors
- Well-Ventilated Room
- Drying Rack
- Porch or Balcony
- Laundry Room.
Don’t Use High-Speed Spin Cycles
Another thing to avoid is using the high-speed spin cycle on your washing machine. In our opinion, this setting is too intense for Hey Dudes. The fast spinning can do a lot of damage, like:
- Stretch out the fabric
- Mess up the stitching
- Tear the shoes (in some cases).
To protect your Hey Dudes, always use the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
After learning whether Hey Dudes are machine washable, you might also want to know how to style them. Check out How to Style Hey Dude Shoes: Easy Tips.
How Often Should You Wash Your Hey Dudes?
A lot of people ask us, “When is the best time to wash Hey Dudes?” Well, the thing is - you should never clean your shoes in a washing machine at any time you want. Washing them unnecessarily can reduce their life span.
So, when is the right time to do it? Let’s have a look:
When The Shoes Start Looking Dirty
One clear sign that it's time to wash your Hey Dudes is when they start looking dirty. If you notice visible dirt, stains, or grime on the shoes, it's a good idea to wash them in a washing machine.
After They Develop an Odor
If your Hey Dudes start to smell bad, it's definitely time for a wash. Shoes can develop odors over time due to sweat, moisture, and bacteria build-up. This is especially common if you wear them without socks.
Washing your Hey Dudes as soon as you notice a bad smell will freshen them up.
After Wearing Them in Dusty, Muddy, or Wet Conditions
Another time to wash your Hey Dudes is after you’ve worn them in dusty, muddy, or wet conditions. Remember that mud and moisture can damage your shoes if you don’t clean them.
So, these are the three times you can wash your Hey Dudes in a washing machine. If you just notice a small stain, you can simply use a wet towel.
That’s all.
Final Words
All in all, Hey Dudes are indeed machine washable, but you will have to follow the correct steps. You will need to:
- Remove insoles and laces
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water
- Air dry.
Always avoid bleach, hot water, and the dryer to prevent damage. Moreover, only wash them whenever they look dirty or start to smell.
That’s everything to know about whether Hey Dudes are machine washable or not.
