How To Clean Up Hey Dudes
Hey Dudes are beloved for their lightweight comfort and casual style, but they can get dirty fast with regular wear. Learning how to clean up Hey Dudes properly will keep them looking fresh and extend their lifespan significantly. Whether you’re dealing with everyday dirt or stubborn stains, this comprehensive guide walks you through the entire cleaning process with simple, effective techniques that won’t damage your favorite shoes. For additional cleaning methods, check out our full guide on How To Clean Hey Dudes.
Why This Happens / Why This Matters
Hey Dudes accumulate dirt, sweat, and odors quickly because of their breathable fabric construction and casual use. Most people wear them sockless during warm weather, leading to moisture buildup and bacteria growth inside the shoe. The canvas and knit materials absorb everything from mud and grass stains to food spills and street grime.
Regular cleaning isn’t just about appearance—it’s essential for maintaining shoe integrity and preventing odor-causing bacteria. Neglected Hey Dudes develop permanent stains, weakened fabric, and unpleasant smells that become harder to eliminate over time. Proper maintenance keeps them comfortable, hygienic, and looking nearly new for months or even years.
Tools & Materials List
- Mild laundry detergent or dish soap
- Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- Clean towels
- Cold or lukewarm water
- Baking soda (for odor removal)
- White vinegar (optional, for tough stains)
- Mesh laundry bag (for machine washing)
- Newspaper or paper towels (for drying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Remove the insoles and laces. Take out the memory foam insoles and pull the laces completely out of your Hey Dudes. These components need separate cleaning attention and will prevent proper washing if left in place.
2. Shake out loose debris. Turn your shoes upside down and tap them together firmly to remove dirt, small rocks, and dried mud. Use your hands to brush away any stubborn particles clinging to the fabric.
3. Spot-treat stubborn stains. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water to create a cleaning solution. Dip your soft-bristled brush into the mixture and gently scrub any visible stains in circular motions. Pay special attention to the toe box and heel areas where dirt accumulates most.
4. Hand wash or machine wash. For hand washing, submerge your Hey Dudes in cold water with a tablespoon of detergent, then gently scrub the entire surface. For machine washing, place shoes in a mesh laundry bag and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Never use hot water—it can damage the glue and warp the shape.
5. Clean the insoles separately. Scrub insoles with your soapy brush, rinse thoroughly, and sprinkle with baking soda to neutralize odors. Let them air dry completely before reinserting.
6. Rinse thoroughly. Whether you hand washed or machine washed, ensure all soap residue is completely removed. Soap buildup attracts more dirt and can stiffen the fabric.
7. Air dry properly. Stuff your Hey Dudes with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never use a dryer—high heat will shrink and damage the material. Allow 24-48 hours for complete drying.
Natural / Simple Alternatives
If you don’t have commercial cleaners available, several household items work excellently. A paste made from baking soda and water effectively tackles stains and deodorizes simultaneously. Simply apply the paste, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
For quick refreshes between deep cleans, sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes overnight to absorb odors. White vinegar diluted with equal parts water serves as a natural disinfectant and stain remover—just avoid using it on colored fabrics too frequently as it may cause slight fading over time. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap handles light dirt without the need for full washing.
Troubleshooting
If your Hey Dudes still smell after washing, the insoles likely need replacing or more intensive treatment. Soak them in a vinegar-water solution for 30 minutes before the baking soda treatment. Persistent odors sometimes indicate bacterial growth that requires multiple cleaning cycles.
When shoes lose their shape after washing, you didn’t use enough stuffing during the drying process. Always pack them firmly with absorbent material. For yellowing white Hey Dudes, create a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, apply to affected areas, and let sit in sunlight for an hour before rinsing. If fabric feels stiff after cleaning, you left soap residue—rewash with plain water only and ensure thorough rinsing.
Prevention / Simple Maintenance Tips
Protect your Hey Dudes before they get dirty by applying a fabric protector spray designed for canvas shoes. Wearing no-show socks reduces sweat absorption and odor buildup significantly. After each wear, allow your shoes to air out completely before storing them in enclosed spaces.
Spot-clean small stains immediately before they set into the fabric—fresh stains remove much easier than old ones. Rotate between multiple pairs to give each set adequate drying time between wears. Store Hey Dudes in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight to prevent material degradation.
Keep Your Hey Dudes Fresh
Now you know exactly how to clean up Hey Dudes and maintain them for long-lasting wear. Regular cleaning combined with proper preventive care ensures your comfortable casual shoes stay looking great season after season. With these straightforward techniques, keeping your Hey Dudes fresh becomes an easy part of your routine maintenance.
