Do’s	Don’ts
Use mild soap	Don’t use bleach
Remove insoles/laces	Don’t wash suede or leather
Air dry in shade	Don’t use heat to dry
Scrub gently	Don’t scrub too hard
Check care label	Don’t assume all are washable
Use baking soda for odor	Don’t soak the shoes
Clean spills quick	Don’t let dirt sit

Key Takeaway: Stick to mild soap, avoid harsh chemicals, always air dry, and make sure you know what material you’re dealing with. That’s how you keep your Hey Dudes looking and feeling like new.

First Things First: Know What They’re Made Of

Not all Hey Dudes are built the same, so before you start scrubbing, figure out what material your pair is made from. Canvas shoes are pretty forgiving and usually the easiest to clean. Knit or flex-knit ones need a softer approach. Suede and leather? Totally different ballgame. Those need a bit of extra care and the right products. If you’re unsure, check the label inside the shoe—it’ll usually tell you what you’re working with.

Grab These Cleaning Supplies Before You Start

To get your Hey Dudes looking clean again, you’ll want to have a few things on hand. A soft brush or an old toothbrush is great for scrubbing, and you’ll need a mild detergent (nothing with bleach in it). Keep a microfiber cloth or towel close for wiping things down, and grab a bowl of lukewarm water. A mesh laundry bag is helpful if you’re throwing them in the wash. Want to go the extra mile? Use baking soda for odor, and maybe a suede brush, leather conditioner, or waterproof spray depending on your shoe type.

Cleaning Hey Dude Shoes by Hand

Honestly, cleaning them by hand gives you the most control. It takes a little more effort than tossing them in the washer, but it’s worth it.

1. Take Out the Insoles and Laces: Start by removing the insoles and laces. These soak up the most sweat and dirt, and they need a separate cleaning session.
2. Brush Off the Loose Dirt: Use your brush or dry cloth to sweep off any loose dirt or dust. Focus on the soles, toe box, and seams. Getting rid of the surface grime makes the whole process easier.
3. Make a Soapy Mix: In a bowl, mix a little mild soap with lukewarm water. Don’t go overboard—you just need enough to get the job done. Hot water is a no-go. It can mess with the glue and the shape of the shoe.
4. Time to Scrub: Dip your brush or cloth into the water with soap and gently scrub the shoe. Go in circles to loosen up dirt, and don’t forget those high-contact areas. Just don’t soak the whole shoe.
5. Rinse Off the Suds: Grab a clean, damp cloth and wipe away any leftover soap. You don’t want residue drying on the fabric—it can leave weird marks or make the material stiff.
6. Let Them Air Dry: No dryers. Ever. Set them in a cool, shaded area and let them dry naturally. Stuff them with paper towels if you want to help them keep their shape. Sunlight or heaters can shrink or warp them.

Washing Hey Dudes in the Machine (Only If They’re Canvas)

Yes, you can wash some Hey Dudes in the washing machine—but only if they’re canvas. Don’t even think about tossing knit, suede, or leather ones in there.

1. Remove the Extras: Take out the insoles and laces first.
2. Use a Laundry Bag: Put the shoes in a mesh laundry bag to keep them from bouncing around.
3. Stick to Cold Water: Only use cold water. Warm or hot water can mess with the shape and glue.
4. Gentle Cycle Only: Use the delicate or gentle setting. No intense spinning.
5. Mild Detergent is Best: Use a mild, bleach-free detergent. Avoid anything strong or scented.
6. Air Dry Again: After they’re done, take them out and let them air dry. Don’t toss them in the dryer.

Cleaning the Insoles and Laces

These parts really hold onto sweat and odor, so don’t forget about them.

• For the Insoles: Soak them in warm, soapy water. Use your brush to clean off grime, then rinse well and lay them flat to dry.
• For the Laces: Soak them in the same soapy mix, rub them between your fingers, rinse thoroughly, and hang them up to dry.
• Extra Freshness Tip: Once dry, sprinkle some baking soda on the insoles before you put them back into the shoes.

Getting Rid of That Funky Shoe Odor

If your Hey Dudes smell like a locker room, here’s what helps.

• Baking Soda Overnight: Sprinkle a generous amount inside and leave it overnight. Shake it out the next day.
• Use Odor Absorbers: Try activated charcoal pouches or sneaker deodorizers.
• Let Them Breathe: Store your shoes in a well-ventilated area. Don’t toss them in dark corners where they stay damp.
• Socks Matter: Clean socks can make a big difference in preventing odor buildup.

Things You Should Never Do

There are a few things that can really mess up your Hey Dudes, so skip these.

• No Bleach or Harsh Cleaners: These can discolor and damage the fabric.
• No Heat: Don’t use a dryer, hairdryer, or place them in direct sunlight.
• Don’t Scrub Hard: If your shoes are knit or suede, rough scrubbing can damage the material.
• No Soaking: Soaking weakens the glue and can change the shape of the shoe.

If You’ve Got Suede or Leather Hey Dudes, Read This

Suede and leather need a little more love and different tools.

• For Suede: Don’t use water. Instead, gently brush away dirt with a suede brush. For stains, dab with a mix of white vinegar and water. Let dry and brush again. Spray with a suede protector for future stains.
• For Leather: Wipe down gently with a cloth dipped in soapy water. Rinse with a clean damp cloth, apply leather conditioner, and buff with a dry cloth. Don’t let them soak and never machine wash.

Tips to Keep Your Hey Dudes Looking Fresh Between Cleans

Keeping your shoes clean doesn’t have to be a big project every time.

• Spot Clean When Needed: Don’t wait for dirt to set in. A quick wipe keeps things looking nice.
• Use Protective Spray: A water-repellent spray can help block stains and moisture.
• Rotate Pairs: Don’t wear the same pair every day. Give them time to air out.
• Store Them Smart: Avoid stuffy closets. Let your Hey Dudes breathe in a dry, open space.

Conclusion

Hey Dude shoes are built for comfort and everyday wear, but a little care goes a long way. Whether you’re doing a full clean, a quick refresh, or just dealing with odors, knowing how to treat your shoes right helps them last longer and look better. Take a few minutes to clean them up, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a brand-new pair every time.

FAQs

Can I use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process?

Nope. Using a hairdryer or any kind of direct heat can shrink or deform your Hey Dudes. Stick to air drying at room temperature.

What’s the best way to store Hey Dude shoes when I’m not wearing them?

Keep them in a cool, dry spot with good air circulation. Avoid plastic bags or sealed containers where moisture can build up.

Can I use regular laundry detergent on my Hey Dudes?

You can, as long as it’s mild and doesn’t contain bleach or harsh chemicals. Something gentle is always better.

How do I know if my Hey Dudes are safe for the washing machine?

Check the label inside the shoe. If it doesn’t say machine washable and the material isn’t canvas, play it safe and clean them by hand.

Is it okay to wear Hey Dudes without socks?

Sure, but just know that it can cause more odor buildup. If you prefer going sockless, clean your insoles more frequently.