Cleaning Hey Dude is a simple process that anyone can do easily. You’ll need the right materials and follow the correct steps. But still, many people are unable to do it properly.
Worry not; we will be discussing everything in detail.
First, the short answer:
To clean Hey dude, you can go for both the “washing machine” and “hand washing method.” First, remove any debris, get a detergent/cleaning agent, and then rinse the shoes.
Now, it’s time we explain every cleaning process step-by-step. Let’s start!
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Cleaning Methods: There are several methods to clean Hey Dude shoes, including using a washing machine, hand washing, and specific techniques for different materials like suede and leather.
- Preparation and Pre-Cleaning: No matter which cleaning method you choose, it's important to start by removing laces and cleaning off any visible debris. This step ensures a more thorough cleaning.
- Gentle Washing: Always be gentle when washing or rinsing the shoes.
- Proper Drying Is Crucial: After cleaning, Hey Dude shoes should be air-dried in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Remember that using direct heat sources like dryers can damage the shoes.
It’s time for details!
Cleaning Hey Dude With a Washing Machine
Most people hesitate to wash their Hey Dude Shoes and the reason is understandable. Not doing it correctly will ruin your shoes and might also damage the washing machine.
So, follow these steps:
|
Step |
Description |
|
Prepare for Cleaning |
Remove laces, wear gloves, and clean visible debris with a soft cloth or brush. |
|
Set the washer |
Place shoes in a laundry mesh bag, select "Gentle/Delicate Cycle" with cold water, and use liquid detergent (avoid bleach or fabric softeners). |
|
Run the washer |
Optionally, add towels to balance the load and reduce washer noise. |
|
Air Dry |
Dry the shoes in a well-ventilated room away from direct sunlight, and stuff with paper or cloth to maintain shape. |
Here are the details:
Prepare For Cleaning
First, you will make some preparations. We suggest people begin with removing the laces, as they can interfere with thorough cleaning.
After this, gather the materials you will need in the next steps. These are:
- Gloves
- Liquid Detergent
- Soft cloth
- Laundry Mesh Bag
When you have them, wear gloves first and clean any visible debris. This can be dirt, sand, grass clippings, mud, etc. You can also use any soft cloth for this purpose.
If you want, you can also use a brush. But note that it must be soft or you will end up scratching your Hey Dude shoes.
Set the Washer
Now, put your shoes in a laundry mesh bag. Why? Doing this will ensure the shoes don’t have to deal with friction in the washer.
After this, simply put the bag in the washer and set the cycle.
Now the most important part: Always choose “Gentle/Delicate Cycle” here. Anything above will cause wear and tear. In fact, overwashed shoes become un-wearable in some cases.
Let us also tell you another mistake people make in this step. They add warm water thinking that it will do better cleaning. That’s wrong. We recommend cold water only, as it does not degrade the shoe’s surface.
But what about detergent? As mentioned above, use a liquid one when cleaning Hey Dude shoes. We’ve seen that powder detergent causes scratches/marks on the surface, so it is better to avoid it.
While we’re on detergent, let us also tell you not to make the mistake of using bleach or any fabric softener. Hey Dudes can’t handle both in a washer.
Run the Washer
Next, you will run the washer. If you want, you can also put some towels before it (to balance the load). It’s optional, but it is better if you do it.
When we did it, we also noticed that the washer made a lot less noise.
Air Dry
When the washer completes the cleaning, take out the shoes and let them dry. Never make the mistake of putting them in a dryer or using a hair dryer. A lot of people have sent us messages about how both of these things ruined their shoes.
Instead, let the air do this job. Simply place your wet Hey Dudes in a well-ventilated room (the one with most windows). Just make sure they are away from direct sun rays, or else the colors will fade away.
Here's a tip: Stuff the shoes with paper or a cloth to maintain their shape during the drying.
When the shoes get dry completely, re-lace them and start wearing them again!
Cleaning Hey Dude With Hands
Cleaning Hey Dude with hands is also possible, but it requires time and effort. Still, people prefer it because it is less risky than the washing machine method. However, even if you do anything wrong, your shoes can get ruined easily.
Here’s how to wash Hey Dude with hands:
|
Step |
Description |
|
Make a Detergent Solution |
Use mild detergent or liquid soap mixed in lukewarm water. |
|
Submerge and Clean |
Scrub stains gently with a brush, cloth, or sponge dipped in the cleaning solution. |
|
Rinse the Shoes |
Use clean water to rinse off soapy residues with a soft cloth. |
|
Dry the Shoes |
Squeeze out excess water and air dry away from direct sunlight. |
Now, the details:
Make a Detergent Solution
First, you will make a suitable cleaning solution. Note that 90 percent success depends on what kind of solution you make. So, take this first step seriously.
We recommend using a mild detergent or liquid soap. Simply mix some quantity in the lukewarm water and stir thoroughly.
In most cases, people use a bucket to make the solution. No matter what you use, always clean it first to ensure there is no contamination on it. Keep in mind that dirt or dust can reduce the potency of the cleaning solution.
Submerge Your Shoes and Clean them
After making the solution, the next thing to do is to submerge your shoes in it. When you do, get a brush and scrub the stains as well. Don’t use too much force or you will damage the surface.
There is another way to wash your shoes if you’re not comfortable with soaking your Hey Dudes.
- Dip a soft cloth or sponge into your cleaning solution.
- Wring it out so it's damp but not soaking wet.
- Gently scrub the outside of the shoes. Here, pay special attention to any stained or dirty areas.
For tough stains, you can use a soft-bristled brush for a more effective clean.
Rinse the Shoes
Many people skip this third step and end up with lots of new stains. In this, you should fill a bowl with clean water and wash your shoes with it. No, you don't have to submerge them again. Simply, take a new soft cloth, dip it in the clean water, and rub every part of the shoe.
The reason this step is crucial is that the soapy residues can stay behind after the second step. Not cleaning them can degrade the shoe’s surface (it means you won’t be able to wear your Hey Dudes for long).
Dry the Shoes
Cleaning and rinsing Hey Dudes is not enough. You should also focus on drying them if you don’t want them to spoil.
Here’s what to do:
- First, gently squeeze out any excess water from the shoes.
- Then, allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area (away from direct sunlight).
- Once the shoes and laces are completely dry, reinsert the insoles and re-lace the shoes.
Cleaning Suede Hey Dudes
If you have Suede Hey Dude shoes, then the cleaning process is different altogether. It’s because Suede is a more sensitive material than others, so you will have to be extra careful.
But before starting the cleaning process, ensure your suede Hey Dudes are dry. Cleaning wet suede can cause additional staining or damage.
After drying, you can do three methods:
|
Method |
Description |
|
Water Stains |
Apply a thin layer of water evenly with a nail brush. |
|
Vinegar Solution |
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, and dab gently on stains with a damp cloth. |
|
Suede Cleaner |
Use a specialized suede cleaner as per instructions for stubborn stains. |
Method One: If you see water stains, don’t panic. Apply a thin layer of water all over the shoe using a nail brush.
Method Two:
- Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.
- Dip a soft, clean cloth into this mixture.
- Wring out the cloth so it's damp but not wet.
- Gently dab at any beverage or water-based stains. Be gentle to avoid spreading the stain.
- After doing the above steps, allow the area to dry completely.
Method Three: For tougher or stubborn stains, we always use a specialized suede cleaner. These are formulated to clean without damaging the suede's delicate surface.
- Apply the suede cleaner as per the instructions on the product, usually by applying a small amount to a clean cloth or brush and gently working it into the stain.
- Some suede cleaners require rinsing, while others do not. If rinsing is needed, we suggest using a damp cloth to gently remove any cleaner residue.
Tip: No matter which method you go for, brush the shoes with the suede brush lightly once again (when they are dry).
Use Specialized Commercial Cleaner To Clean Hey Dudes
Washing leather and wool Hey Dudes is the trickiest. You can batter them easily if you are not careful. Since they are usually expensive, most people don’t want to take the risk of washing them in a washer as well.
For both leather and wool Hey Dudes, we’re here with the easiest cleaning method.
Cleaning Leather Hey Dudes
|
Step |
Description |
|
Choose Cleaner |
Use a specialized leather cleaner. |
|
Apply Cleaner |
Gently rub cleaner onto the leather with a soft cloth, focusing on stained areas. |
|
Wipe Off Excess |
Use a clean, dry cloth to remove excess cleaner. |
|
Dry |
Air dry them naturally, avoiding direct heat or sunlight. |
|
Important Note |
Never machine wash leather shoes. |
Choosing the Right Cleaner
First, purchase a specialized leather cleaner. They are formulated to clean leather effectively without damaging its texture or color. Don’t worry; you will only need one cleaner bottle.
Note that every leather cleaner comes with its own set of instructions. Before applying, read these carefully to understand the correct application method and any precautions you need to take.
Applying the Cleaner
In most cases, you apply a small amount of the cleaner onto a clean, soft cloth. Then, gently rub the cloth over the leather surface of the shoes.
Ensure you cover the entire surface but focus more on any visibly dirty or stained areas.
Wiping Off Excess Cleaner
After cleaning, use a separate dry cloth to wipe off any excess cleaner from the shoes. Then, allow the shoes to air dry naturally.
Cleaning Wool Hey Dudes
|
Step |
Description |
|
Choose Wool Wash |
Use a cleaner specifically designed for wool. |
|
Hand Washing |
Submerge in water with wool wash, gently agitate, and soak as per instructions. |
|
Rinse |
Rinse thoroughly in clean water. |
|
Dry |
Gently squeeze out water and lay flat to air dry, avoiding direct heat and sunlight. |
Choosing a Wool Wash
For Wool Hey Dudes, we recommend selecting a cleaner specifically designed for wool. The reason is that wool wash solutions are gentler and designed to clean without harming the wool fibers.
After you get a wool wash/cleaner, read the instructions printed on the bottle. They will guide you on how much solution to use and the correct water temperature.
Hand Washing
In the next step, fill a basin with water. It should be room temperature but a little colder will also work.
Then, in the water, add the recommended amount of wool wash solution.
Now, the most important part: Submerge your wool Hey Dudes in the solution. How long they should be soaked is usually mentioned on the bottle.
Rinsing
After soaking, the next thing you should do is rinse your shoes thoroughly in clean water. It’s done to remove all soap residues.
Drying
Lastly, gently squeeze out excess water and then lay it flat to air dry.
That’s it. It’s that easy to clean Hey Dude shoes!
