Ever looked at your soggy Hey Dudes after a wash and wondered, “Can you put Hey Dudes in the dryer?” You’re not alone. Thousands of people ask the same thing every month — hoping for a quick way to dry their favorite lightweight shoes.
Here’s the truth: even though tossing your Hey Dude shoes in the dryer sounds convenient, it’s not a good idea. These shoes are comfy, stylish, and built with delicate materials that can easily get damaged by heat.
So before you press that dryer button, let’s explore what really happens when you do — and what safer options you have to keep your Hey Dudes looking fresh and lasting longer.
Understanding What Makes Hey Dudes Special
Before answering “Can you put Hey Dude shoes in the dryer?” let’s take a quick look at what makes them different.
Hey Dudes are known for being super lightweight, flexible, and breathable — thanks to their cotton canvas, knit, or stretch fabric uppers and EVA foam soles. These materials are what make them so comfortable, but they’re also what make them sensitive to heat and moisture.
Here’s why that matters:
- Canvas and knit fabrics can shrink or lose shape when exposed to high heat.
- EVA soles can warp, melt, or separate from the shoe body.
- The adhesive glue that holds parts together softens under heat, making your shoes fall apart faster.
So yes, while your Hey Dudes can survive a wash, drying them in a hot machine is a different story.
Can You Put Hey Dudes in the Dryer? Here’s the Real Answer
Let’s tackle the main question head-on — Can you put Hey Dudes in the dryer?
The short answer is no, you shouldn’t. Even though it might feel tempting to speed up the drying process, dryers use high heat and tumbling motion, both of which can damage your shoes permanently.
Here’s what typically happens when people put their Hey Dudes in the dryer:
- The shoes lose their original shape.
- The soles start separating or cracking.
- The inner foam becomes stiff and uncomfortable.
- The material color fades or shrinks.
It’s not just about looks — it’s about comfort and durability too.
The official Hey Dude brand itself clearly recommends air drying your shoes instead of using any heat-based method. Their care guide specifically says:
“Do not machine dry or expose to direct heat. Air dry only.”
So, if you’ve been searching online for:
- “Can you put Hey Dudes in the washer and dryer?”
- “Can you put your Hey Dudes in the dryer?”
- “Can you put Hey Dude in the dryer?”
The official and expert-backed answer remains — no, never use a dryer for them.
Why Dryers Can Damage Your Hey Dudes
To understand why, let’s get a little scientific (don’t worry, in simple terms).
Dryers generate heat between 120°F to 160°F, which is enough to soften glues and deform EVA soles. Every tumble smacks the shoes around, bending and twisting them repeatedly. Over time, this makes the structure weaker, and soon your Hey Dude shoes won’t feel or fit the same.
Even using the “low heat” or “delicate” setting doesn’t help much. The heat may feel mild to you, but it’s still too harsh for the materials inside your Hey Dudes.
So next time you think about saving time by machine drying, just remember: a few hours of air drying can save your favorite shoes from an early retirement.
Safe Alternatives to Drying Hey Dudes
If you can’t put your Hey Dudes in the dryer, don’t worry — there are plenty of easy and safe ways to dry them without damaging their shape or comfort. These methods might take a little longer, but they’ll help your shoes last much longer too.
1. Air Drying: The Safest and Easiest Way
The best way to dry Hey Dudes is simply to let them air dry. It’s natural, free, and completely safe for every shoe material — from knit to canvas.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Remove the insoles and laces. This helps the inside dry faster.
- Pat off excess water using a clean towel or cloth.
- Stuff the shoes with paper towels, newspaper, or tissue to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
- Place them in a well-ventilated area — like near a fan, window, or under a ceiling fan.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause fading or shrinking.
Depending on humidity and airflow, your shoes should dry within 12 to 24 hours.
💡 Pro Tip: Rotate the stuffing every few hours to speed up drying.
2. Use a Fan or Dehumidifier
If you live somewhere humid or need your Hey Dudes dry a little faster, place them near a fan or dehumidifier.
This allows steady airflow without heat, which helps the moisture evaporate safely.
You can even hang your shoes using a clothespin or shoelace near the fan — just make sure they aren’t spinning around or hitting anything.
3. Towel Wrap Technique
Here’s a quick fix that works wonders:
Wrap your wet Hey Dude shoes in a dry towel, pressing gently to absorb moisture. Then unwrap and leave them out to air dry.
It’s a simple way to remove extra water without any heat.
4. The Rice or Silica Gel Hack
If your shoes are soaked — maybe from rain or washing — try the rice trick. Place your Hey Dudes in a large bowl or box filled with uncooked rice, or drop in a few silica gel packets.
These materials naturally absorb moisture and can cut your drying time in half.
Avoid using a heater or blow dryer — both are heat sources and can do the same damage as a dryer.
So, whenever you wonder “Can you put Hey Dude in the dryer?”, remember — you don’t need to. These methods work better and keep your shoes in top shape.
How to Wash Hey Dudes the Right Way
Now that we know how to dry them safely, let’s talk about the best way to wash Hey Dudes.
This is another place where people make big mistakes — using hot water, strong detergent, or skipping basic prep steps.
Here’s the step-by-step cleaning routine professionals recommend.
Step 1: Preparation
Before washing, always remove insoles and laces.
This helps both parts dry faster and prevents deformation.
Shake your shoes to get rid of any dirt, sand, or debris.
Step 2: Hand Washing (Best Method)
If you want to protect your Hey Dudes for the long run, hand washing is the safest route.
- Fill a bucket or sink with cold or lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent — something gentle, like dish soap or baby shampoo.
- Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the upper fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Pat dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
This method keeps the shoe’s fabric soft and prevents the glue from weakening.
Step 3: Machine Washing (Only if Necessary)
If your shoes are extremely dirty, yes — you can wash them in a washing machine, but carefully.
That’s why people often ask “Can you put Hey Dudes in the washer and dryer?” — the washer part is okay if you follow these steps, but the dryer is still a no-go.
Here’s how to do it safely:
- Use a gentle cycle with cold water.
- Place your Hey Dudes inside a mesh laundry bag to prevent damage.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or hot water.
- After washing, never put your Hey Dude shoes in the dryer. Instead, air dry them as explained earlier.
This helps keep the color, structure, and comfort intact.
Step 4: Post-Wash Drying Routine
Once washed, follow these quick steps:
- Gently press the shoes with a dry towel to remove extra water.
- Insert paper towels or tissue inside to keep their shape.
- Leave them in a bright, airy space — but not under direct sunlight.
- Don’t wear them until they’re completely dry to prevent odor or mold.
Step 5: Reinsert Insoles and Laces
After your shoes and insoles are fully dry, put them back together.
You’ll notice how clean, soft, and odor-free they feel — and you didn’t have to risk a dryer to get them that way.
Why This Matters
When you take the time to dry and wash your Hey Dude shoes properly, you’re not just cleaning them — you’re preserving their quality, comfort, and lifespan.
Heat may save a few hours, but proper care saves your shoes for months or even years.
So, next time you’re tempted to ask “Can you put Hey Dudes in the dryer?” — you’ll know exactly why the answer is a confident no and what to do instead.
What to Do If You Accidentally Put Hey Dudes in the Dryer
So… you tossed them in without realizing the risk. Don’t panic.
If you’ve accidentally put your Hey Dudes in the dryer, there’s still a chance to save them — depending on the damage.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Check for Heat Damage
As soon as you take them out, check if:
- The soles are warped or uneven
- The fabric feels tight or shrunk
- The glue near the heel or sides looks separated
If the shoes have mild deformation, you can still restore them a bit.
2. Reshape While Warm
While they’re still slightly warm, stuff your Hey Dude shoes with paper towels, socks, or cloth to push them back into their normal shape.
Don’t force it — just give gentle pressure.
3. Let Them Cool Naturally
Once stuffed, let them rest in open air for 12–24 hours.
Avoid trying to fix shape using a heater, iron, or blow dryer — you’ll only make things worse.
4. Use a Shoe Stretcher (Optional)
If they shrank too much, a shoe stretcher can help regain fit.
Insert it inside and let it sit for 8–12 hours. It often works well for canvas and knit shoes.
If your Hey Dudes are extremely warped or the sole is separating, it might be time for a replacement — but at least now you know how to avoid it next time.
Smart Maintenance Tips to Keep Hey Dudes Fresh
Once your shoes are clean and dry, let’s keep them that way!
Here are some tried-and-true tricks for keeping your Hey Dude shoes fresh, odor-free, and long-lasting.
1. Use Odor Absorbers
Drop in activated charcoal balls, baking soda pouches, or even a few dry tea bags inside your shoes overnight.
They’ll soak up moisture and eliminate odor naturally.
2. Clean Small Spots Regularly
Don’t wait for your shoes to look dirty. A quick wipe with a damp cloth once a week keeps them looking brand new.
3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Never store wet shoes in closed spaces.
Use breathable storage bags or boxes with small holes to allow airflow.
4. Avoid Excessive Washing
Washing your Hey Dudes too often can wear down the fabric and adhesives. Instead, try spot cleaning whenever possible.
5. Use Insoles Wisely
If your shoes smell even after cleaning, try replaceable insoles.
They’re inexpensive and make your shoes feel new again.
Common Myths About Cleaning and Drying Hey Dudes
There’s a lot of bad advice floating around online about cleaning shoes. Let’s bust some of those myths right here.
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| “You can use low heat safely.” | Even low heat can soften glue and warp soles. |
| “Dryer sheets keep them fresh.” | Dryer sheets can leave residue and reduce breathability. |
| “Machine washing ruins Hey Dudes.” | False — gentle washing with cold water is perfectly safe. |
| “Sunlight dries them faster.” | True, but it fades colors and weakens the material. |
| “It’s okay to dry Hey Dudes just once.” | One cycle can permanently affect their shape and comfort. |
The takeaway? Always air dry, avoid heat, and stay gentle with these lightweight shoes.
Eco-Friendly & Quick-Dry Cleaning Hacks
If you like sustainable solutions, these natural cleaning hacks are perfect for you.
1. Use Vinegar and Baking Soda
Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts water, and add a pinch of baking soda.
Use a soft brush to scrub lightly, then rinse and air dry.
This combo removes odor, stains, and bacteria naturally.
2. Dry Faster Without Heat
To make air drying faster:
- Place your shoes in front of a fan
- Stuff them with newspaper and change it every few hours
- Leave them in a breezy, shaded area
No electricity, no risk — just patience and airflow.
3. Revive Old Hey Dudes
If your pair looks dull, add a teaspoon of fabric conditioner to cold water and dip a cloth in it.
Wipe the surface gently — it restores softness and gives your shoes that “fresh from the box” feel.
FAQs About Washing and Drying Hey Dudes
1. Can you put Hey Dudes in the washer and dryer?
You can wash them in the washer using cold water and a gentle cycle, but never dry them in a dryer. Always let them air dry.
2. How long do Hey Dudes take to dry?
Usually 12–24 hours, depending on room temperature and ventilation.
3. Can you put Hey Dude shoes in the dryer for a few minutes?
No. Even a few minutes can cause heat damage and shrink the shoes.
4. What’s the fastest way to dry Hey Dudes without a dryer?
Use a fan, paper stuffing, and a dehumidifier. That combo speeds up drying without risk.
5. Can you put Hey Dudes shoes in the dryer with low heat?
Still no — even low heat can damage EVA soles and adhesive.
6. Are Hey Dudes waterproof?
Not exactly. They’re water-resistant at best, so always dry them gently after getting wet.
Conclusion: Handle with Care for Long-Lasting Comfort
Your Hey Dudes are more than just shoes — they’re your go-to comfort companions.
So, the next time you’re tempted to ask, “Can you put Hey Dudes in the dryer?”, remember:
Dryers and Hey Dudes don’t mix.
Heat can shrink, warp, and weaken the very materials that make them so comfy. Instead, rely on air drying, gentle cleaning, and smart storage to keep them looking fresh.
In short — treat your shoes kindly, and they’ll stay light, soft, and stylish for years to come.
Because great shoes deserve great care — and now, you know exactly how to give it.
