Can You Machine Wash Hey Dudes? The Surprising Answer

Hey Dudes are praised for their comfort, versatility, and stylish design. As more and more people purchase them, a common question arises: can Hey Dudes be machine washed?

If you are concerned about damaging your Hey Dude shoes and want to know the best way to clean them without compromising their quality, know that:

Hey Dudes can be safely machine-washed as long as proper procedures are followed to avoid damage. To machine wash Hey Dudes safely, remove any excess dirt, place them in a laundry bag, and use a gentle cycle with cold water. Air dry them afterward.

This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to safely and effectively machine wash their Hey Dude shoes. I will cover topics such as preparing the shoes for washing, choosing the right washing cycle, and properly drying the shoes afterward.

So, stick till the end to know it all!

Can You Machine Wash Hey Dudes?

Hey Dudes are a famous brand of lightweight and comfortable shoes known for their slip-on design and versatile style. However, many consumers may wonder if it’s safe to machine wash them.

The answer is yes; in most cases, you can machine wash Hey Dudes. These shoes are often made from materials like canvas or cotton, durable enough to withstand the washing machine.

However, note that taking certain precautions is important to ensure the shoes aren’t damaged in the process. Further, there are a few things to remember to ensure that your Hey Dudes come out of the washing machine looking and feeling as good as new.

First, permanently remove any excess dirt or debris from the shoes before putting them in the washing machine. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth for this purpose.

When washing the shoes, it’s generally best to use cold water and a gentle detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, which can damage the shoes or cause discoloration.

It’s also a good idea to place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to help protect them during the wash cycle.

After washing the shoes, air dry them rather than put them in the dryer. High heat can cause the shoes to shrink or warp, so it’s best to let them dry naturally. You can stuff the shoes with paper towels or newspaper to help them maintain their shape as they dry.

How to Machine Wash Hey Dudes? A Complete Guide

If you’re wondering how to safely and effectively machine wash your Hey Dudes, follow this complete guide:

Step 1: Prep the Shoes

Before machine washing your Hey Dudes, it’s essential to prepare the shoes properly. This will help ensure the shoes come out clean and undamaged from the washing machine.

Follow these steps to prepare your Hey Dudes for machine washing:

Remove any excess dirt or debris: Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to gently clean any dirt or debris from the shoes. Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn stains or dirt buildup.
Check for any damage: Inspect your Hey Dudes for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Machine washing the shoes could cause further harm if they are already damaged.
Remove the laces: Take out the laces from the shoes and wash them separately. You can either hand wash the laces or place them in a mesh laundry bag, and machine washes them with the shoes.

By preparing your Hey Dudes for machine washing, you can ensure that the shoes come out clean and undamaged. Once you’ve prepared the shoes, you can move on to the next step, which is to protect the shoes during the wash cycle.

Step 2: Protect the Shoes

After prepping your Hey Dudes for machine washing, the next step is to protect the shoes during the wash cycle. Protecting your shoes will prevent them from getting damaged, tangled, or misshapen during the wash cycle.

Here’s how you can protect your Hey Dudes during machine washing:

Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag: Place them in a mesh laundry bag to protect them. The bag will help keep the shoes from getting tangled and damaged during the wash cycle. You can also use a pillowcase or a lingerie bag as an alternative.
Wash with similar colors: If you’re washing multiple pairs of shoes, wash them with similar colors. This will prevent any color bleeding or discoloration.
Don’t overload the washing machine: To prevent the shoes from getting damaged or tangled, don’t overload the washing machine. Overloading the machine can also affect the quality of the wash.

Following these steps to protect your Hey Dudes during the wash cycle can help ensure that your shoes are kept in good condition and come out of the wash clean and undamaged.

Step 3: Add Detergent

After protecting your Hey Dudes during the wash cycle, it’s time to add detergent to the washing machine. Choosing the suitable detergent ensures that your shoes come out clean and undamaged. Here’s how you can add detergent to your Hey Dudes:

Use a mild detergent: Choose a mild detergent that is gentle on delicate fabrics. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, which can damage the shoes or cause discoloration.
Follow the detergent instructions: Read the instructions carefully before adding it to the washing machine. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure you’re using the correct amount of detergent.
Use a small amount of detergent: Using too much detergent can damage the shoes and leave a residue. Use a small amount of detergent to avoid these issues.

Adding detergent to your Hey Dudes can help ensure the shoes come out clean and undamaged.

Step 4: Set the Wash Cycle

Once you’ve added detergent to your Hey Dudes, the next step is to set the wash cycle on your washing machine. Choosing the proper wash cycle ensures that your shoes come out clean and undamaged.

Here’s how you can set the wash cycle for your Hey Dudes:

Choose a gentle cycle: Select a gentle cycle on your washing machine, such as the delicate or hand wash cycle. This will prevent the shoes from getting damaged or misshapen during the wash cycle.
Use cold water: Set the washing machine to use cold water. Hot water can damage the shoes or cause them to shrink or lose their shape.
Avoid the spin cycle: Avoid using the spin cycle on your washing machine, as this can cause the shoes to get tangled or damaged. Instead, let the shoe air dry.

Step 5: Start the Wash Cycle

After you’ve completed the previous steps of preparing and protecting your Hey Dudes, adding detergent, and setting the wash cycle, it’s time to start the washing machine.

Place the laundry bag containing your Hey Dudes in the washing machine, making sure not to overload the machine. Then turn on the washing machine and select the wash cycle you previously set.

Be patient and wait for the wash cycle to complete. The time it takes for the cycle to finish can vary depending on the cycle and machine settings, but it usually takes around 30-40 minutes. Once the wash cycle is complete, carefully remove your Hey Dudes from the laundry bag.

By following these simple steps to start the wash cycle for your Hey Dudes, you can ensure that your shoes come out clean and ready to wear. The next and final step in the process is air drying your Hey Dudes, which we will cover in the next section of this guide.

Step 6: Air Dry

Carefully remove the shoes from the washing machine and remove them from the laundry bag. Stuff your Hey Dudes with clean, dry towels to help them keep their shape and absorb any excess moisture. Avoid using newspaper as it can transfer ink onto the shoes.

Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, allowing them to air dry completely. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the shoes to shrink or warp. I would recommend you to leave them to air dry overnight to ensure they are scorched.

Lastly, check on the shoes periodically to ensure they dry evenly and do not develop any odors or mildew. If you notice any unpleasant odors, use a shoe deodorizer or place a dryer sheet inside each shoe to help absorb unwanted smells.

Once your Hey Dudes are completely dry, you can remove the towels and wear them again. By air drying your Hey Dudes properly, you can help ensure they maintain their shape and last longer.

Recommended Washing Settings and Detergent

Hey Dudes are designed to be easy to care for and can be machine washed if done correctly. When washing your Hey Dudes, it’s essential to use the right washing settings and detergent to prevent any damage or discoloration to the shoes.

The recommended washing settings for Hey Dudes are a gentle cycle with cold water. The gentle cycle will prevent aggressive movement that could damage the shoes, and cold water will prevent color bleeding or shrinking. It’s also important to avoid fabric softeners or bleach as they can cause discoloration or damage to the shoes.

When selecting a detergent for your Hey Dudes, it’s best to choose a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid harsh or heavy-duty detergents, which can be too strong for the shoes and cause damage. Using a detergent free of fragrances or dyes is also recommended, as they can cause discoloration or allergic reactions.

Protecting your Hey Dudes during the wash cycle is essential to prevent damage or misshapen shoes. Placing the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase can help keep them from getting tangled and damaged. Washing them with similar colors and not overloading the machine can also help ensure a high-quality wash.

Alternatives to Machine Washing Hey Dudes

While machine washing is convenient for cleaning Hey Dudes, it’s not the only method available. Here are some alternative ways to clean your Hey Dudes without a washing machine.

Hand Washing

Hand washing is a gentle and effective way to clean Hey Dudes. Here’s how to do that:

Fill a basin or sink with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the shoes, particularly in areas with stains or dirt.
Rinse the shoes thoroughly with cool water and let them air dry.

Spot Cleaning

Spot cleaning can be quick and easy if your Hey Dudes only have minor stains or marks. Use a damp cloth or sponge and a small amount of mild detergent to rub the affected areas gently. In the end, rinse with cool water and let the shoe air dry.

Dry Cleaning

Some Hey Dudes may be labeled as dry clean only. If so, take the shoes to a professional dry cleaner with experience working with delicate materials. Be sure to inform the cleaner of any specific shoe stains or issues.

Odor Elimination

If your Hey Dudes have formed an unpleasant odor, try several methods before washing.

Baking soda can be sprinkled inside the shoes overnight to absorb any odors. Alternatively, you can place the shoes in a plastic bag with a few dryer sheets and leave them overnight to freshen up.

Regardless of your chosen method, it’s essential always to read the care instructions for your specific Hey Dudes and note any specific cleaning recommendations. With proper care, your Hey Dudes can last long and continue to look and feel great.

Conclusion

Hey Dudes are comfortable, versatile, and stylish shoes that are popular among many consumers. Although it may seem counterintuitive, they can be safely machine-washed if you take the necessary precautions.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can clean your Hey Dudes effectively without damaging the shoes. Remember to prep the shoes, protect them during the wash cycle, and avoid using high heat to dry them. With proper care and maintenance, your Hey Dudes can last longer and remain comfortable and stylish.