Do Hey Dude Shoes Shrink When Washed

If you’re wondering whether do Hey Dude shoes shrink when washed, the answer is yes—they can shrink slightly if not washed properly. Hey Dude shoes are designed to be machine-washable, but using hot water, high heat drying, or aggressive wash cycles can cause the canvas or fabric upper to contract and the insole to warp. Understanding the right washing technique helps you keep your shoes fitting comfortably while maintaining their shape and longevity. For detailed cleaning instructions, check out our guide on How To Clean Hey Dudes.

Why Hey Dude Shoes Can Shrink

Hey Dude shoes are typically made from canvas, cotton blends, or knit fabrics that naturally respond to heat and moisture. When exposed to hot water or high dryer temperatures, these materials contract similarly to how cotton t-shirts shrink in the laundry. The Memory Foam insoles can also lose their shape or compress under excessive heat.

The elastic laces and lightweight construction make Hey Dudes comfortable but also more vulnerable to heat damage. Unlike leather shoes that maintain rigidity, the flexible materials in Hey Dudes require gentler care. Most shrinkage occurs during the drying phase rather than washing itself, which is why proper drying methods are crucial for maintaining the original fit.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

• Mild laundry detergent or dish soap
• Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
• Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
• Clean towels
• Cool or lukewarm water
• Well-ventilated drying area

Step-by-Step Instructions to Wash Without Shrinking

1. Remove the insoles: Take out the Memory Foam insoles before washing. These should be cleaned separately by hand with mild soap and water, then air-dried completely to prevent compression and odor buildup.
2. Pre-treat stains: Use a soft brush with a small amount of detergent to gently scrub any visible stains or dirty spots on the fabric. This reduces the need for aggressive washing cycles.
3. Place shoes in a mesh bag: Put your Hey Dudes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase tied shut. This protects the shoes from banging around and prevents damage to both the shoes and your washing machine drum.
4. Use cold water and gentle cycle: Set your washing machine to cold water and select the gentle or delicate cycle. Cold water is the key factor in preventing shrinkage—never use warm or hot settings.
5. Add mild detergent: Use about half the amount of detergent you’d normally use for a small load. Too much soap can leave residue that’s difficult to rinse out completely.
6. Skip the dryer completely: This is the most important step. Never put Hey Dude shoes in the dryer, as the heat will cause immediate shrinkage. Instead, remove excess water by pressing the shoes between clean towels.
7. Air dry properly: Stuff the shoes loosely with newspaper or clean cloths to help them maintain their shape. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Allow 24-48 hours for complete drying.
8. Reinsert insoles: Once both the shoes and insoles are completely dry, place the insoles back inside and your Hey Dudes should fit just as they did before washing.

Natural Alternatives to Machine Washing

If you’re concerned about any shrinkage risk, hand washing is the safest alternative. Fill a basin with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent, then gently scrub the shoes with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and air dry as described above.

For quick refreshing between deep cleans, try spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes overnight to absorb odors without any water exposure. You can also use a fabric refresher spray specifically designed for shoes to eliminate smells while avoiding the washing process entirely.

What to Do If Your Hey Dudes Already Shrank

If your shoes have already shrunk slightly, there are remedies worth trying. While the shoes are still slightly damp, wear them around the house with thick socks—the moisture and pressure from your feet can help stretch the fabric back out gradually.

Another method involves using a shoe stretcher or stuffing the damp shoes tightly with wet newspaper, then allowing them to dry completely in this stretched position. The fabric may relax and expand somewhat, though results vary depending on how much shrinkage occurred. For significantly shrunken shoes, professional shoe stretching services may be necessary.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

The best approach is preventing shrinkage before it happens. Always check the care label inside your specific Hey Dude model, as some variations have particular washing instructions. Wash your shoes only when truly necessary—usually every 3-4 weeks for regular wear.

Consider rotating between multiple pairs to reduce how often each needs washing. Use shoe trees or stuff your Hey Dudes with paper when storing to maintain their shape. Keep them away from heat sources like radiators or car trunks during summer, as prolonged heat exposure can also cause gradual shrinkage over time.

Keep Your Hey Dudes Fitting Perfectly

Now you know that do Hey Dude shoes shrink when washed—but only if you use improper washing methods. By sticking to cold water, gentle cycles, and always air drying, you’ll keep your comfortable Hey Dudes fitting exactly as they should. With proper care, these versatile shoes will maintain their perfect fit wash after wash.