When it comes to drying wet shoes, you have a few options. You can wait for them to air dry, you can use a hairdryer and you can even put them in the dryer. While air drying and using a hairdryer are the most common methods, putting your shoes in the dryer can be a great way to speed up the drying process. However, it is important to take a few precautions when drying shoes in a dryer, as some materials can be damaged by the heat.
What Shoes Can Go in the Dryer?
Before you put any shoes in the dryer, you should check the label to see if it is safe to do so. Generally, shoes made from natural materials such as leather, wool, and cotton can be safely dried in the dryer. Shoes made from synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, should not be put in the dryer as the heat could damage them. It is also important to check the care instructions for any shoes with embellishments, such as buckles, buttons, and zippers, as these can also be damaged by the dryer.
Preparing the Shoes for the Dryer
Before you put your shoes in the dryer, it is important to prepare them properly. Start by removing the laces and any insoles and stuffing the shoes with paper towels. The paper towels will help absorb the moisture and will also help maintain the shape of the shoes. It is also a good idea to put a couple of tennis balls in the dryer with the shoes to help fluff them up.
Drying Shoes in the Dryer
Once the shoes are prepared, it is time to put them in the dryer. Make sure to set the dryer to the lowest heat setting and place the shoes in the dryer with the paper towels. Run the dryer for about 10 minutes and then check the shoes to see if they are dry. If they are still wet, run the dryer for an additional 5 minutes and check again. Do not dry the shoes for more than 20 minutes as this could damage them.
Finishing Up
Once the shoes are dry, take them out of the dryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Then replace the insoles and laces, if necessary, and you are done. It is important to note that some materials may shrink slightly when put in the dryer, so make sure to keep an eye on your shoes during the drying process.
FAQs
What kind of shoes can be dried in a dryer?
Most shoes made of natural materials such as leather, wool, and cotton can be safely dried in the dryer. Shoes made of synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, should not be put in the dryer as the heat can damage them.
How long should I dry shoes in the dryer?
You should only dry your shoes for a maximum of 20 minutes in the dryer. If the shoes are still wet after 10 minutes, you can run the dryer for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
Do I need to stuff shoes with paper towels before drying?
Yes, it is a good idea to stuff shoes with paper towels before putting them in the dryer. This will help absorb the moisture and maintain the shape of the shoes.
Should I put tennis balls in the dryer with the shoes?
Yes, putting a few tennis balls in the dryer with the shoes can help fluff them up and make them look like new again.
Will my shoes shrink in the dryer?
Some materials may shrink slightly when put in the dryer, so it is important to keep an eye on your shoes during the drying process.
Do I have to remove the laces and insoles before drying?
Yes, it is important to remove the laces and insoles before drying your shoes in the dryer.
Can I dry shoes with embellishments in the dryer?
It is important to check the care instructions for any shoes with embellishments, such as buckles, buttons, and zippers, as these can also be damaged by the dryer.
What temperature should I use to dry my shoes?
When drying your shoes in the dryer, make sure to set the dryer to the lowest heat setting.
Should I let my shoes cool after drying?
Yes, it is important to let your shoes cool for a few minutes after taking them out of the dryer before replacing the insoles and laces.