Easy and Effective Methods to Clean Your Hey Dude Shoes

Hey Dude is a footwear brand that specializes in casual and comfortable shoes for men, women, and kids.

The brand was founded in Italy in 2008 and has since expanded to various countries, including the United States, where it has gained popularity for its unique designs and comfortable fit.

Hey Dude shoes are known for their lightweight construction, soft and flexible uppers, and cushioned soles, which provide excellent support and comfort for all-day wear.

They offer a wide range of styles, including slip-ons, lace-ups, boots, and sandals, that are suitable for various activities and occasions.

Whether you’re going for a walk, running errands, or hanging out with friends, Hey Dude has a shoe for you.

Properly Clean Your Hey Dude Shoes by Hand

Hey Dude shoes are known for their comfort and style, but they can get dirty with day-to-day wear.

Cleaning them properly by hand can help maintain their longevity and appearance.

However, I want to highly notify you, that these cleaning instructions are suitable for most Hey Dude shoes, except suede, leather, and wool styles because they are not safe with water.

For these materials, I have covered them below in this article that you can explore.

You Will Need

Work Time: 20 – 30 Minutes

  • Soft-Bristled Brush or Damp Cloth
  • Small Container
  • Lukewarm Water
  • Mild Detergent or Dish Soap
  • Nylon Brush [For Canvas]
  • Clean Water
  • Well-Ventilated Area

Step 1 – Remove Laces and Insoles

Take out the laces and insoles from your shoes.

You can clean them separately by hand with a mild dish detergent, which I have covered in detail below in this article!

Step 2 – Wipe Off Excess Dirt

Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to gently wipe down the shoes, removing any loose dirt or debris.

Be careful not to scrub too hard and damage the material.

Step 3 – Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Mix a few drops of mild detergent or dish soap in a bucket of lukewarm water.

Swish the water with your hand to create a soapy solution.

Step 4 – Scrub the Shoes

Dip a soft brush or cloth in the soapy water and gently scrub the shoes, focusing on any areas with stains or dirt.

For canvas Hey Dude shoes, you can also use a nylon brush for a deeper clean.

Be cautious not to scrub too vigorously, as it may damage the fabric or affect the shape of the shoes.

Also, avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the material.

Step 5 – Rinse With Clean Water

Once you’ve cleaned the shoes, rinse them thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Step 6 – Dry the Shoes

Place the shoes on a towel and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause the shoes to shrink or warp


Once your shoes are completely dry, reinsert the insoles and laces. Your Hey Dude shoes should now be clean and ready to wear!

Properly Clean Your Hey Dude Shoes by Machine

If your Hey Dude shoes are machine washable or they are not suede, leather, or wool materials, here are the steps you can follow!

You Will Need

Work Time: 20 – 30 Minutes

  • Soft-Bristled Brush or Damp Cloth
  • Laundry Bag or Pillowcase
  • Mild Detergent
  • Washing Machine With a Gentle Cycle Option
  • Newspapers or Paper Towels

Step 1 – Remove Laces and Insoles

Before you start cleaning your Hey Dude shoes, make sure to remove the laces and insoles.

Laces may get tangled, and memory foam insoles can be ruined in the wash.

Step 2 – Wipe off or Rinse Excess Dirt

Although the washing machine does a great job of cleaning Hey Dude shoes, try to get rid of clumps of dirt or big patches of mud before you wash the shoes.

This just makes it a little easier on your machine, and your shoes will get a lot cleaner.

This can be done by gently wiping the shoes with a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth, being careful not to scrub too hard and damage the material.

Step 3 – Pre-Treat Any Stains

If you have any stubborn stains on your shoes, you can pre-treat them with a stain remover or a mixture of water and mild detergent.

Gently rub the stain with a soft cloth or a sponge, and then let it sit for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4 – Place the Shoes in a Laundry Bag

To protect your Hey Dude shoes from getting snagged or damaged in the washing machine, place them in a laundry bag or pillowcase.

You can also add a few towels or other soft items to the bag to help cushion the shoes and reduce the noise in the machine.

Step 5 – Add a Mild Detergent

Use a small amount of mild detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics.

Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the materials of your shoes.

Step 5 – Use a Gentle Cycle

Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water, as this can cause the shoes to shrink or warp.

Step 6 – Air Dry Your Shoes

After the wash cycle is complete, remove your shoes from the laundry bag and stuff them with crumpled newspapers or paper towels to help them retain their shape.

Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area and let them air dry.

Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can shrink or warp the materials of your shoes.


Once your Hey Dude shoes are fully dry, reinsert the insoles and they are ready to wear again!

Washing Hey Dude shoes in a washing machine can be a convenient and effective way to keep them clean and fresh.

Just be sure to follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging the shoes in the process.

Wash Suede, Leather, and Wool Type Materials Hey Dudes

Cleaning your Hey Dude shoes that are made of suede, leather, or wool requires special care and attention.

These materials are more sensitive than others and according to Hey Dudu these should not be cleaned in the water.

So can be easily damaged if not cleaned properly. Don’t worry, I am here with you!

Safely Clean Your Hey Dude Suede Shoes

  • Use a suede brush to gently rub off dirt and stains. Always brush in one direction, rather than back and forth.
  • For mud stains, let the mud dry first, then brush it off with a suede brush.
  • If the brush doesn’t remove the stain, try using a knife to lift it up, then brush again.
  • For tougher stains, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water. Dampen a clean, white towel with the mixture and gently rub at the stain without soaking the suede.
  • Avoid getting your suede shoes wet, as water can permanently damage them

Safely Clean Your Hey Dude Leather Shoes

  • Wipe off any dirt or stains with a damp cloth. Avoid using too much water, as it can damage the leather.
  • Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple.
  • Apply a weatherproofing spray to protect the leather from water and stains

Safely Clean Your Hey Dude Wool Shoes

  • Spot-clean any stains with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Gently rub the mixture onto the stain, then blot it with a clean cloth.
  • Avoid using hot water or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wool.
  • Let the shoes air dry, and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the wool to shrink or warp

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Hey Dude shoes is an essential part of maintaining their appearance, extending their lifespan, and preventing the growth of bacteria and other microbes.

By taking the little time to clean regularly, you can ensure that they continue to look and feel great and that you stay healthy and comfortable while wearing them.

Frequently Asked Questions on [Clean Your Hey Dude Shoes]

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about cleaning your Hey Dude shoes:

How Often Should I Clean My Hey Dude Shoes?

The frequency at which you should clean your Hey Dude Shoes depends on several factors, including how often you wear them, the conditions you wear them in, and how dirty they become.

If you wear them every day, you may need to clean them once a week, or after every few wears and when you see they become visibly dirty.

Is It Safe to Clean My Hey Dude in the Washing Machine?

The suitability of washing Hey Dude Shoes in a washing machine depends on the type of shoes.

Some Hey Dude Shoes are made of materials that may be able to withstand machine washing, while others may not.

For example, suede, leather, and wool styles Hey Dude shoes should not be washed in the washing machine, these are not suitable with water.

Instead, they should be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and mild laundry detergent.

So, it’s important to check the care instructions that come with your specific pair of shoes to confirm whether or not machine washing is safe and recommended for your shoes.

Can I Use Shoe Polish or Spray on Hey Dude Shoes?

It depends on the material of your Hey Dude Shoes.

If your Hey Dude Shoes are made of canvas or fabric, you can use a fabric spray or fabric shoe polish specifically designed for those materials.

If your Hey Dude Shoes are made of leather or suede, you should use a shoe polish or spray that’s designed specifically for those materials.

It’s important to choose the appropriate color of the polish or spray that matches the color of your shoes to avoid discoloration or staining.

Overall, before using any shoe polish or spray, it’s always best to check the label and make sure it’s safe for the material of your Hey Dude Shoes.

Can I Wash My Hey Dude With Tide Pods?

Yes, you can wash Hey Dude shoes with Tide Pods, but it is not recommended.

Tide Pods are actually a type of laundry detergent in a single-dose, pre-measured pod or capsule form. They contain a combination of liquid detergent, stain remover, and brightener all encased in a dissolvable, water-soluble casing.

However, always is best to use a small amount of liquid detergent in your washing machine for cleaning the Hey Dude shoes.

Can I Wash My Hey Dude Shoes With Clothes?

Yes, you can wash your Hey Dude while washing other clothes in the washing machine.

It’s crucial to avoid using too much detergent or overloading your washing machine.

However, it’s better to wash your Hey Dude shoes separately in order to preserve their shape and performance.

What Are the Best Ways to Eliminate Odors in Hey Dude Shoes?

To eliminate odors from your Hey Dude shoes, you can follow these tips:

Deodorize With Baking Soda

Baking soda is an effective deodorizer. Add some baking soda to the inside of your Hey Dude shoes and leave it in overnight.

Dump the powder the next morning or put the soda in a sachet or plastic bag to avoid dirtying the shoe with the powder.

Freeze the Shoes

Believe it or not, you can freshen up your shoes by putting them in the freezer.

Put the shoes in a plastic bag first to avoid getting the freezer dirty.

The cold temperature will kill off the odor-causing bacteria in the shoes.

Use Scented Shoe Trees

Install scented shoe trees in your Hey Dude shoes to reduce moisture and maintain the shape of the shoes.

These shoe trees are made from solid pine wood with an original wood smell and can effectively reduce odor from the inside of the shoes.

Air Out Your Shoes

After wearing your Hey Dude shoes, you can air them out to allow any moisture to evaporate that can create odor.

To enhance airflow further into the shoe, make sure to loosen the laces.