Hey Dude shoes have taken the casual footwear world by storm with their lightweight, ultra-comfortable design. Those soft knit uppers and flexible soles are perfect for all-day wear, whether you’re running errands, traveling, or just kicking back. However, all that cushiony comfort does come with one downside – Hey Dude shoes can get smelly and dingy pretty quickly with frequent use.
Don’t worry though, with some simple supplies and techniques, you can keep your Hey Dudes looking fresh and extending their lifespan for miles of cloud-like comfort. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about how to properly wash Hey Dude shoes step-by-step. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
Before getting started on washing your Hey Dudes, take a quick inventory and gather these necessary supplies:
- Mild liquid laundry detergent or dish soap
- An old soft-bristled brush or toothbrushes (for scrubbing)
- A large shallow basin, bucket, or utility sink
- Clean absorbent towels or rags
- A well-ventilated area for allowing shoes to fully air dry
You’ll also want to quickly reference any specific care instructions that came with your particular style of Hey Dude shoes. While the knit uppers are generally washing machine safe, certain materials like suede may have special requirements.
Preparing Your Hey Dudes
The first step in how to wash Hey Dude shoes is properly preparing them for cleaning. Start by removing the laces and insoles from each shoe. Give the shoes a firm tap against a hard surface like a table to knock out any loose dirt, debris, or crusties from the soles and creases.
Next, do a quick visual inspection to identify any heavily soiled or stained areas that may need some extra scrubbing attention. Common problem areas to look out for include:
- Mud, dirt or clay splattered or caked onto the uppers
- Food or drink spills on the toe boxes
- Grease spots or discoloration from oil/cosmetic products
- Grubby, darkened soles from everyday wear
Make a mental note of these stubborn areas so you can focus your efforts there during the scrubbing process.
Creating the Ideal Cleaning Solution
In a large basin or bucket, mix together your simple yet effective cleaning solution:
- 1 Tablespoon of mild liquid laundry detergent or dish soap
- 1 Gallon of warm water
Use a long-handled utensil to swish the solution around until the soap is fully dissolved and plenty of sudsy bubbles have formed. Be careful not to use too much detergent though.
“It’s really important to avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or excess detergent when washing Hey Dudes or any other athletic shoes with knit uppers. The strong chemicals can potentially damage, discolor or cause premature breakdown of the soft fabrics.” – Chris R., Shoe Materials Expert
The Gentle Scrub Down
With your soapy solution ready, it’s time to start scrubbing! Dip your soft-bristled brush or an old dedicated toothbrush into the sudsy water. Start gently scrubbing the fabric uppers of the Hey Dude shoes, using small circular motions to work the cleaning solution into the fibers.
Pay very close attention to any visibly dirty areas, stains, or discolored portions you noted earlier. You may need to apply a bit more firm (but still gentle!) pressure with the brush to really work the soap into these ground-in areas. For tight creases or the textured toe bumper, switch to using a smaller toothbrush to get into those nooks and crannies.
However, take care not to be too aggressive when scrubbing as the soft, stretchy knit uppers can potentially become pilled or roughed up. A gentle touch is key!
Once you’ve thoroughly scrubbed all portions of the fabric uppers, it’s time to focus on the soles.
Reviving Those Grimy Soles
Even with regular wear, the flexible soles of Hey Dude shoes can quickly build up layers of ground-in dirt, dried mud, scuff marks, and other unsightly grime. Here’s where you’ll need to put in a bit more scrubbing effort.
Dip a firm-bristled brush or an old toothbrush directly into your remaining soapy solution. Then, vigorously scrub the entire surface of the shoe soles using back-and-forth and circular motions. Apply firm pressure as needed and really work to dislodge any caked-on dirt and debris, especially along the outer edges.
For any extremely stubborn spots that just won’t budge, you can make a quick paste by mixing together:
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon warm water
Gently rub this abrasive baking soda paste directly onto the problematic areas using a damp cloth or the toothbrush. Let it sit briefly before rinsing thoroughly to help break up dried-on gunk.
Once both the uppers and soles are thoroughly scrubbed, it’s time to rinse!
The Final Rinse and Crucial Drying Process
Rinsing away every last sudsy residue is a crucial step in how to wash Hey Dude shoes properly. Hold each shoe under a steady stream of cool, clean water. Rotate it to ensure all surfaces of the fabric uppers and soles get fully rinsed until the water runs clear with no more soapy bubbles.
Once fully rinsed, gently squeeze out any excess moisture from the shoes. Then, stuff the insides with clean, dry towels or paper to help them retain their natural shape as they dry.
Allow your freshly washed Hey Dudes to fully air dry in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Depending on conditions, this can take anywhere from 12-24 hours. Placing them near a fan can speed up drying time.
Pro Tip: Avoid putting your Hey Dude shoes in the dryer! The high heat can potentially cause the soft knit uppers to shrink, warp or become overly stiff. Always allow them to air dry naturally.
While your shoes are drying, take a moment to also rinse out the removable insoles you set aside earlier. These can harbor lots of sweat, grime and odor-causing bacteria over time. Once the shoes are fully dried, replace the insoles so everything is fresh and clean for your next wear!
Dealing With Tough Stains and Set-In Grime
Sometimes normal soap and water just won’t do the trick on certain types of tough stains. If you’re dealing with any extra stubborn spots that didn’t fully lift during the washing process, you may need to apply a targeted pre-treatment before scrubbing.
Here are some effective pre-treatment methods for tackling common tough stains on Hey Dude shoes:
| Stain Type | Pre-Treatment Method |
| Mud/Clay | Make a paste with 1 part baking soda, 1 part white vinegar, and 1 part water. Gently rub into the stain using a soft brush or cloth and let sit for 15 minutes before washing as normal. |
| Food/Drink Spills | Apply a small amount of concentrated dish soap or laundry stain remover directly to the stain and let it soak in for 30 minutes before scrubbing and washing. |
| Grease/Oil Spots | Lightly sprinkle some baking soda or corn starch directly onto the greasy area and let it sit briefly to help absorb and draw out the oils before brushing off and washing. |
| Cosmetic Residue/Makeup | Apply a dab of petroleum jelly or oil-based makeup remover to help break down any built-up product residue before washing. |
For extra set-in grime that still won’t budge, you may need to enlist the help of a soft-bristled old toothbrush and some elbow grease during the scrubbing process.
“Don’t underestimate the power of plain old baking soda and vinegar! This classic duo can be surprisingly effective for lifting ground-in dirt and tackling stubborn stains on shoes and apparel naturally.” – Karen B., Green Cleaning Expert.
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Maintaining and Extending the Life of Your Hey Dudes
With their breathable, moisture-wicking design, Hey Dude shoes are obviously made for all-day comfort in any climate. However, that super soft knit fabric is also prone to quickly picking up odors, stains, and general grime from daily wear.
To keep your Hey Dudes looking and smelling fresh between washings, it’s wise to follow some simple maintenance and preventative care tips:
- Let shoes fully air out after each wear by removing insoles
- Sprinkle some baking soda into the insides when not in use to absorb odor
- Store shoes in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight
- Replace insoles when they become compressed or heavily worn down
- Use a shoe tree/stuffing to help shoes retain their shape
Even with diligent care though, those soft knit uppers won’t last forever. Most shoe experts recommend replacing your Hey Dudes every 6-12 months, depending on your frequency of wear.
Some signs it may be time for a new pair include:
- Heavy pilling or breakdown of the knit fabric
- Cracks or splits developing in the soles
- Loss of cushioning and support under the footbed
- General worn-out look that won’t revive with cleaning
So what’s the ideal schedule for fully washing Hey Dude shoes? For most wearers, aim to give them a thorough cleaning every 2-3 weeks or anytime they are visibly soiled or smelly. This regular washing will prevent stains from setting and clear out any sweat or debris buildup.
By properly washing and maintaining your Hey Dudes on a consistent basis, you can keep that signature cloud-like comfort and easygoing style looking fresh!
In Summary: How to Wash Hey Dude Shoes Step-by-Step
To wrap up, let’s quickly review the key steps for properly washing Hey Dude shoes:
- Gather supplies: Mild detergent, brush, basin, towels, drying area
- Prepare shoes by removing laces/insoles and knocking out debris
- Create cleaning solution of 1 tbsp detergent per 1 gallon warm water
- Gently scrub fabric uppers using a soft brush and cleaning solution
- Vigorously scrub soles using a firm brush or toothbrush
- Rinse shoes thoroughly until all soap residue is removed
- Stuff with towels and allow shoes to fully air dry (12-24 hours)
- Treat any remaining tough stains with pre-treatments as needed
- Maintain shoes by airing out, deodorizing, and replacing insoles regularly
- Know when to replace worn-out Hey Dudes (every 6-12 months)
By following these simple steps for how to properly wash and care for Hey Dude shoes, you can keep those beloved kicks cloud-soft and fresh for many comfortable miles!
The Benefits of Caring for Your Hey Dudes
While it may take a little extra time and effort, properly washing and maintaining your Hey Dude shoes pays off in extending both their life and your comfort. Some key benefits include:
- Preventing premature fabric breakdown and sole cracking from built-up dirt and oils
- Eliminating odors caused by bacteria growth to keep feet smelling fresh
- Reviving the plush, cushioned feel by removing compressed insoles
- Maintaining the stylish look by preventing stains from setting in
- Potentially saving money by making Hey Dudes last longer before replacement
So don’t let dirt and grime take away from the signature easygoing style and comfort that makes Hey Dude shoes so covetable! Now that you know how to wash Hey Dude shoes the right way for keeping them in tip-top condition, all that’s left is to give those kicks some TLC.
With a little basic cleaning and preventative maintenance, your favorite Hey Dudes can deliver that perfectly-broken-in feel and fresh look for seasons to come. Your feet (and wardrobe) will definitely thank you!
Insider Tips from Hey Dude Wearers
To get even more insight into the best practices for keeping Hey Dude shoes fresh, I reached out to some avid fans of the brand. Here are some helpful insider tips straight from the wearers themselves:
“I live in my Hey Dudes year-round, so they definitely need a good cleaning every few weeks. My trick is to use a tiny bit of woolite mixed with warm water when washing. It’s super gentle but still gets them looking brand new!” – Melissa F., Toronto
“Baking soda is your friend when it comes to deodorizing the insides of Hey Dudes after a lot of wear. I’ll occasionally sprinkle some into the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb odors before shaking it out.” – Dan R., Phoenix
“Whenever I get a new pair, the first thing I do is spray the uppers with a protector spray designed for knit fabrics. It helps repel dirt and stains so they look fresh longer between washes.” – Anna M., Seattle
“I rotate between a few pairs of Hey Dudes and try to let each one fully air out for 24 hours before wearing again. Seems to really help cut down on odor issues!” – Tyler B., Miami
“For really ground-in dirt on the soles, I’ve found using a soft bristle brush with some laundry detergent and making a paste does the trick. You just have to put a little elbow grease into scrubbing.” – Samantha L., Chicago
“My Hey Dudes are my everyday shoes, so they inevitably get pretty grubby! Whenever they start looking dingy, I just toss them into a delicates wash bag and run them through a gentle cycle in the washing machine with cold water and mild detergent, then air dry. Works like a charm for quick cleaning.” – Marcus K., Boston
As you can see, the Hey Dude community has lots of excellent tried-and-true tips for keeping their beloved shoes in tip-top shape!
Hey Dude Brand History and Sustainability
Today’s immense popularity of Hey Dude shoes can be traced back to the brand’s beginnings in Italy back in 2008. Founded by an entrepreneurial young couple with a passion for style and comfort, the first Hey Dude collection featured lightweight vulcanized sneakers made from soft woven fabrics.
The brand’s signature cushioned, flexible soles provided shock absorption and all-day comfort unlike any other casual shoe at the time. Paired with the ultra-soft, breathable knit uppers, Hey Dude shoes quickly developed a cult following among travelers, teachers, service workers and others who spent long hours on their feet.
As the brand expanded over the next decade to include slip-ons, sandals, boots and more, Hey Dude’s core DNA of stylish, lightweight comfort remained. Their shoes became a streetwear staple beloved by nurses, new moms, skaters, fashionistas and really anyone who valued foot support and easygoing style.
In recent years, Hey Dude has also made a major push toward sustainability and eco-conscious manufacturing. Many of their knit uppers now incorporate recycled polyester made from repurposed plastic bottles. The brand has also implemented recycling programs and carbon offset initiatives to reduce their overall environmental impact.
So when you wear your favorite pair of Hey Dudes, you can feel good knowing their soft cushioned comfort also has aseamlessly sustainable soul! Just be sure to follow the proper washing and care tips to extend the life of these versatile, easygoing shoes.
FAQs
Can I put my Hey Dude shoes in the washing machine?
While Hey Dude states their classic knit styles are machine washable, it’s generally recommended to hand wash to best preserve the soft uppers and prevent premature breakdown. However, you can machine wash on a gentle, cold water cycle using a delicates bag if needed. Just allow to air dry after.
How do I get extreme odors out of Hey Dudes?
Try sprinkling baking soda generously into the shoes and letting it sit overnight to absorb odors before shaking out. You can also use odor eliminators specifically made for shoes. As a last resort, you may need to replace the insoles if odors have really set in.
What’s the best way to clean the insoles?
Remove insoles from shoes and rinse them separately under cool water, using a soft brush to release any ground-in dirt or staining. Allow to fully air dry before replacing in shoes.
My Hey Dudes got mud stains – help?
Make a paste with baking soda, white vinegar and water and gently work it into the mud stains using a soft brush or towel. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing and washing as normal with detergent.
Can I put Hey Dude shoes in the dryer?
Never put Hey Dudes or any other soft knit shoes in the dryer! The high heat can potentially warp the shape and cause the soft fabrics to become overly stiff. Always allow to fully air dry.
How do I store Hey Dude shoes to prevent odors?
Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight. Stuff with paper or a shoe tree to help them retain shape. Sprinkle with baking soda and replace insoles to absorb odors between wears.
Conclusion
Washing your Hey Dude shoes is an essential process that helps maintain their freshness and longevity. By following the simple steps mentioned above, you can easily clean your shoes, keep them looking good, and extend their lifespan.
To recap, make sure to remove any dirt or debris from your shoes before washing them. Then, gently hand wash them using a mild detergent and a soft brush or cloth. Do not submerge your Hey Dude shoes in water, as this can damage the material. Instead, use a damp cloth to remove the soap solution and spot clean your shoes until they are nice and clean.
Finally, you’ll need to let your shoes air dry for optimal results; do not attempt to speed up the process using a hairdryer or placing them in the sun. Proper drying will preserve their shape and prevent any damage.
By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your Hey Dude shoes clean and comfortable, ensuring that they’ll serve you well for a long time.
