Hey Dude shoes have become extremely popular casual footwear in recent years due to their versatility, comfort and durability. However, with regular wear, Hey Dude shoes naturally get dirty over time. Let’s look at the proper way to wash these shoes to keep them looking fresh.
Why Regularly Wash Your Hey Dude Shoes
Failing to wash Hey Dude shoes on a regular basis can cause dirt and grime to build up and get ground into the material. This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the shoes but can also shorten their lifespan. Dirt acts like sandpaper and breaks down shoes faster with every wear. Additionally, bacteria thrive in moist, dirty environments and leave an unpleasant odor. Washing every 2-4 weeks is recommended depending on wear to prevent such issues and keep shoes in top shape.
Signs it’s Time for a Wash
There are some obvious signs that indicate your Hey Dude shoes need to be washed:
- Dirt buildup is clearly visible around soles and sides of shoes
- Heel areas or spots that rub more show embedded grime
- Odor develops from bacteria growing in unwashed shoes
- Soles or edges start to look darker or less bright
- Shoes feel stiff or less flexible than when new
Addressing these problem areas quickly through washing can prevent damage, stains or smells from setting in further.
How to Hand Wash Hey Dude Shoes
Hand washing is the gentlest and safest method to clean Hey Dude shoes made of canvas or other non-rubber materials. Here are the basic steps:
- Remove Shoelaces and Inserts : Take out any shoe laces, insoles or orthotic inserts for individual cleaning later.
- Fill Basin With Lukewarm Water : Fill a clean basin, sink or large tub with a few inches of room temperature water.
- Add Mild Cleanser : Add a few drops of a gentle cleanser like woolite or baby shampoo to the water and mix well.
- Immerse and Agitate Gently : Slowly submerge the shoes and use your hands to gently agitate dirt and grime, taking care not to rub too hard.
- Rinse With Clean Water : Once clean, rinse shoes thoroughly under running water to remove all soap residue which can damage materials if left on.
- Allow to Air Dry Completely : Lay shoes to dry out of direct sunlight on an absorbent surface like a towel overnight or until fully dry inside and out before storing away.
The lukewarm hand wash allows dirt to safely dissolve and rinse away without harming delicate fabrics. Going slowly is key to preserve shoes in great condition.
Tips for Tougher Clean Jobs
For heavy dirt or set-in stains that simple hand washing does not fully remove, try these additional techniques:
- Pre-Treat Stubborn Areas: If only parts have built-up grime, spot treat heavily soiled toes or sides before an overall wash by applying a paste of gentle cleanser and water and letting it soak in.
- Use a Soft Brush or Cloth : For rubbing soiled spots, opt for a soft nail brush, old toothbrush or microfiber cloth rather than abrasive sponges or brushes that can damage materials. Scrub lightly.
- Make a Baking Soda Paste: Create a thick paste by mixing baking soda with just enough water to form a spreadable texture. Apply generously to abrasions and let sit 10-15 minutes before rinsing away.
- Try a Vinegar or Oxygen Brightener Soak: For discoloration, add 1/2 cup white vinegar or oxygen brightener to the wash water to help lift years of stains with a several hour long soak.
With patience and gentle scrubbing of persistent spots, shoes can be returned to like-new condition even after months or years of wear using these specialized cleaning techniques.
How to Wash Specific Parts
While the overall shoe cleans the same, some components require separate attention:
- Clean Shoelaces: Soak laces in warm water and vinegar or wash by hand with soap and a toothbrush. Allow to fully air dry before rethreading.
- Wash Inserts and Orthotics Gently scrub insoles, inserts and orthotics with soap, rinse thoroughly and let air dry away from direct sunlight which can discolor materials over time.
- Spot Clean Soles if Very Dirty: For excess dirt embedded into rubber soles, scrub with a nylon brush or old toothbrush dipped in cleanser, rinse and allow to fully dry.
- Wipe Inside Sweatband Area : Use a damp cloth to wipe down fabric lining inside the shoe by the heel and toe boxes which can get especially damp and smelly.
Cleaning each part separately ensures no dirt or grime is overlooked which could lead to lingering odors even after washing the overall shoe.
Proper Drying and Storage
After a thorough wash, shoes must be dried and stored correctly to maintain their condition:
- Lay shoes on their sides to air dry completely which takes at least 24 hours for canvas materials to fully dry out internally
- Place shoes in an area with good airflow away from direct sunlight or heat sources to avoid cracking or fading
- Stuff with paper or cloth if needed to maintain proper shape during drying process
- Store in breathable shoe bags or boxes once completely dried to prevent moisture buildup between washes
- Regular cleaning and properly drying shoes extends their lifespan and preserves good looks for longer
With regular care through washing, Hey Dude shoes can stay as comfortable as the day they were purchased season after season of wear. Simple hand cleaning is often all that’s needed to restore dirtied shoes or remove stubborn stains. Always allow thorough drying to prevent issues from dampness like odors.
In conclusion, by learning basic washing techniques and tips for tougher situations, Hey Dude owners can keep their beloved shoes looking fresh and smelling nice for much longer. Taking 30 minutes periodically to deep clean prevents damage better than ignoring grime buildup. With a little maintenance, these versatile shoes can be enjoyed comfortably through many more months or years of wear to come.