Hey Dude shoes have become incredibly popular in recent years thanks to their comfortable and stylish designs. However, theirfrequent everyday wear can result in dirt, stains, and odor buildup. While Hey Dudes are machine washable, handwashing allows for a deeper clean without putting the shoes at risk of damage from frequent machine washing.
This comprehensive guide will walk through everything you need to know about properly handwashing both canvas and suede Hey Dude shoes.
Table of Contents
Why Handwashing is Best for Hey Dudes?
Hey Dude themselves state that machine washing their shoes voids the 60-day warranty. While an occasional delicate machine wash can be done if needed, handwashing is the ideal method for cleaning Hey Dudes thoroughly and gently.
Benefits of handwashing include:
- Allows control over water temperature – hot water can shrink or warp Hey Dudes
- Avoids potential damage from machine agitation
- Allows targeted stain treatment and scrubbing
- Retains structural integrity of shoes
- Materials like suede and leather require handwashing
For deep cleaning that keeps your Hey Dudes fresh without compromising their construction, handwashing is the best solution.
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Supplies Needed
Handwashing Hey Dudes requires just a few simple supplies. Having these on hand will make the process quick and easy whenever your shoes need freshening up.
1. For Washing
- Mild liquid dish soap: Less harsh than laundry detergents
- Soft-bristled toothbrush: For gently scrubbing dirt and stains away
- Clean cloths, sponges, or towels: For wiping down the shoes pre and post-wash
- Small bowl for soap and water: Allows control of water temperature
2. For Drying
- Old towels: Blot wet shoes before drying
- Crumpled newspaper: Helps shoes retain shape as they dry
- Shoe trees: Absorb moisture and maintain form
- Suede brush: For pre-treating suede styles
- Suede cleaner: Spot cleaning suede stains
Having all these materials ready ahead of time makes handwashing a breeze.
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Step-by-Step Guide for Washing Canvas Hey Dudes
Canvas Hey Dude styles can withstand a bit more vigorous handwashing. Follow these steps for cleaning canvas shoes thoroughly.
1. Prep the Shoes
- Remove laces and insoles: This prevents tangling and retains the shape of the insoles.
- Rinse under water: Run cool water over the shoes to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Wash
- Fill bowl with warm water and add a squeeze of mild dish soap. Swish the water gently to create suds. The warm water helps the soap dissolve and penetrate the canvas material.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the exterior of the shoes. Focus on any visibly stained or dirty areas and scrub a bit more vigorously there. The toothbrush bristles will help lift dirt from the crevices in the canvas weave.
- Rinse shoes under cool running water. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear and all soap residue has been removed.
3. Dry
- Blot wet shoes with an old towel to absorb excess moisture. Remove any remaining water before drying.
- Stuff shoes with crumpled newspaper. The newspaper will help the shoes retain their shape as they dry.
- Allow shoes to air dry completely for 24-48 hours. Place them in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Turn periodically so they dry evenly.
And that’s it! With these simple handwashing steps, your canvas Hey Dudes will look fresh and new.
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Special Instructions for Suede Hey Dudes
Suede requires the most care when handwashing. Follow these steps to clean without compromising the material.
Prep
- Use a suede brush on dry shoes to remove loose dirt and dust. Gently brush in one direction.
- Remove laces and insoles.
Wash
- Create a soap solution of warm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
- Dip toothbrush in solution and spot clean stained areas only. Avoid scrubbing the whole surface which can damage suede.
- Rinse cleaner off with damp cloth.
Dry
- Stuff shoes with newspaper and allow to fully air dry.
- Apply suede protector spray when shoes are totally dry.
With extra care taken, your suede Hey Dudes will come out looking rejuvenated.
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Handwashing Tips and Tricks
Follow these tips to get the most out of handwashing your Hey Dudes:
- Use lukewarm water only. Avoid hot water.
- When scrubbing, be gentle. Blot stained areas rather than rubbing vigorously.
- Rinse all soap residue off fully with a damp cloth.
- Always fully air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
- For super white Hey Dudes, add a bit of non-chlorine bleach to the wash water.
- For tough stains, spot treat with a stain remover stick or gel before washing.
- Be extra gentle with suede and leather materials to avoid damage.
- Apply waterproofing spray to suede and fabric styles after washing.
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When to Handwash vs Machine Wash?
While occasional machine washing is okay for canvas and fabric Hey Dude styles, handwashing should be your primary cleaning method.
Handwash when:
- Dealing with suede, leather, or wool shoes
- Cleaning shoes frequently or after just a wear or two
- Trying to remove tough stains or caked on dirt
- Shoes have started to retain odors
Machine wash only occasionally when:
- Canvas shoes are very heavily soiled and stained
- Thorough cleaning is needed after extended wear
- Handwashing has not fully removed odors
- Using a mesh bag on delicate cold cycle and line drying
For regular upkeep and deep cleaning, save the machine for only when handwashing cannot tackle the dirtiness of your canvas Hey Dudes.
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Proper Drying Practices
Drying your handwashed Hey Dudes properly ensures they maintain their shape and structural integrity.
Follow these drying tips:
- Always fully air dry shoes away from direct heat or sunlight.
- Stuff damp shoes with crumpled newspaper immediately after washing. The newspaper absorbs moisture and fills out the shape.
- Consider using cedar shoe trees for optimal moisture wicking and form retention as shoes dry.
- Flip shoes periodically so air can circulate into all areas.
- Allow 24-48 hours for shoes to dry fully before wearing again.
- Never machine dry Hey Dudes or attempt to speed up drying.
Rushing the drying process can lead to shrinking and misshaping. Take your time and use newspaper or shoe trees to get your Hey Dudes dry properly.
Storing Hey Dudes Between Wears
How you store your Hey Dudes between wears impacts their longevity. Follow these tips:
- Always store shoes fully dried and free of moisture.
- Maintain shape by stuffing with newspaper or shoe trees.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light and heat.
- Avoid moist environments that could lead to mold growth.
- Consider cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and odors.
- Keep Hey Dudes away from direct heat sources like radiators or vents.
- For minimizing odors, sprinkle baking soda in shoes before storing.
With proper storage habits, your Hey Dudes will stay fresh smelling and ready to wear for longer periods between washes.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Handwashing should be part of your regular shoe care regimen. Implement these maintenance practices as well:
- Use a suede brush frequently on suede shoes to lift dirt.
- Spot clean canvas and suede styles after each wear.
- Check for sole wear and loose stitching. Repair as needed.
- Consider replacing insoles periodically for freshness.
- Apply waterproofing sprays occasionally.
- Rotate wears between different Hey Dude styles.
- Clean shoe storage areas to prevent odor transfer.
- Bring Hey Dudes to a cobbler for professional cleans.
With consistent care, your handwashed Hey Dudes will continue looking brand new wear after wear.
FAQ – Handwashing Hey Dudes
Still have some questions about getting your Hey Dudes handwash clean? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
What is the best way to dry my handwashed Hey Dudes?
The ideal way is to stuff damp shoes with crumpled newspaper immediately after washing. Allow them to fully air dry for 24-48 hours away from direct heat or sunlight, flipping periodically. Using cedar shoe trees is also an excellent way to dry them effectively.
Can I put my canvas Hey Dudes in the washing machine?
Yes, you can occasionally machine wash canvas Hey Dude styles if needed. Use a mesh laundry bag on the delicate cycle with cold water. Line dry only – never put Hey Dudes in the dryer. Frequent machine washing can damage shoes over time so handwash regularly.
How do I get bad foot odor out of my Hey Dudes?
Handwash shoes thoroughly with dish soap, focusing on the insoles removed from the shoes. Rinse well and allow insoles and shoes to dry fully. Stuffing with baking soda can help absorb stubborn odors. Replacing insoles periodically will also eliminate smells.
What’s the best way to clean mud or stains off Hey Dudes?
Let mud fully dry first then gently scrape off chunks. Create a warm, soapy handwash solution. Use a toothbrush to gently scrub stain. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. For tough stains, try a stain remover gel before washing. Avoid excessive scrubbing.
How can I make my white Hey Dudes look crisp and new again?
Handwash with warm, soapy water and add a small amount of non-chlorine bleach. Let soak briefly, then scrub with toothbrush and rinse thoroughly. Allow to air dry fully. Apply white shoe cleaner and buff with soft cloth or toothbrush.
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The Bottom Line
With a proper handwashing, your Hey Dudes will stay looking and smelling fresh as new. Follow the step-by-step instructions to handwash canvas, leather, suede, and other styles. Implement ongoing shoe care practices as well for longevity.
Handwashing allows deep cleaning without compromising the materials and construction. While occasional machine washing is okay for canvas, handwashing should be your go-to method.
Keep your Hey Dudes clean and style looking brand new with these comprehensive handwashing tips and guidelines. Just a bit of regular effort goes a long way towards increasing the life span of your favorite Hey Dude shoes.
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