The Definitive Guide: Drying Shoes In The Dryer - Do's And Don'ts

Author Saxons 03 Feb 2025

Can You Dry Shoes in the Dryer? Drying shoes in the dryer is a common practice, but it's important to do so carefully to avoid damaging them. Heat can cause leather and other materials to crack or shrink, so it's best to use a low heat setting and tumble the shoes for a short period of time.

If you're not sure whether your shoes can be dried in the dryer, check the care label. It will usually specify whether the shoes are machine-washable and dryer-safe. You can also air dry your shoes by stuffing them with newspaper and placing them in a warm, dry place.

Here are some tips for drying shoes in the dryer:

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Use a low heat setting.
Tumble the shoes for a short period of time.
Remove the shoes from the dryer as soon as they are dry.
If the shoes are still damp, you can air dry them by stuffing them with newspaper and placing them in a warm, dry place.

Can You Dry Shoes in the Dryer?

Drying shoes in the dryer is a common practice, but it's important to do so carefully to avoid damaging them. Here are 8 key aspects to consider:

Heat setting: Use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the shoes.
Tumble time: Tumble the shoes for a short period of time to avoid over-drying.
Shoe material: Some materials, such as leather, can be damaged by heat, so check the care label before drying.
Shoe construction: Shoes with glued or stitched soles may come apart in the dryer.
Shoe size: Large shoes may not fit in the dryer, and small shoes may get lost inside the dryer.
Dryer type: Some dryers have a delicate cycle that is better for drying shoes.
Shoe laces: Remove shoe laces before drying to avoid tangling.
Damp shoes: If the shoes are still damp after drying, air dry them by stuffing them with newspaper and placing them in a warm, dry place.

By following these tips, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and avoid any damage. Remember to always check the care label on your shoes before drying them to make sure they are machine-washable and dryer-safe.

1. Heat setting

When drying shoes in the dryer, it is important to use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the shoes. Heat can cause the materials in shoes to break down, leading to cracks, shrinkage, and other damage. Using a low heat setting will help to protect your shoes and extend their lifespan.

Facet 1: Materials
The materials used in shoes can be affected by heat in different ways. For example, leather is a natural material that can become dry and cracked if it is exposed to too much heat. Synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, are more resistant to heat, but they can still be damaged if the heat setting is too high.
Facet 2: Construction
The construction of shoes can also affect how they tolerate heat. Shoes with glued or stitched soles are more likely to come apart in the dryer than shoes with cemented or vulcanized soles. Shoes with delicate embellishments, such as beads or sequins, may also be damaged by heat.
Facet 3: Size
The size of shoes can also be a factor when drying them in the dryer. Large shoes may not fit in the dryer, and small shoes may get lost inside the dryer. If you are drying shoes of different sizes, it is best to use a mesh laundry bag to keep the smaller shoes from getting lost.
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Facet 4: Dryer type
The type of dryer you have can also affect how well your shoes dry. Some dryers have a delicate cycle that is better for drying shoes. If your dryer does not have a delicate cycle, you can use the lowest heat setting and tumble the shoes for a shorter period of time.

2. Tumble time

Tumble time is an important factor to consider when drying shoes in the dryer. Over-drying can damage shoes, causing them to become stiff, cracked, or faded. This is especially true for shoes made from delicate materials, such as leather or suede. Additionally, over-drying can also cause the glue that holds the shoes together to weaken, which can lead to the shoes falling apart.

To avoid over-drying, it is important to tumble the shoes for a short period of time. The exact amount of time will vary depending on the type of shoes and the material they are made from. However, a good rule of thumb is to tumble the shoes for no more than 20 minutes. If the shoes are still damp after 20 minutes, you can check them every 5-10 minutes until they are dry.

Here are some tips for tumbling shoes in the dryer:

Use a low heat setting.
Tumble the shoes for a short period of time.
Remove the shoes from the dryer as soon as they are dry.
If the shoes are still damp, you can air dry them by stuffing them with newspaper and placing them in a warm, dry place.

By following these tips, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and avoid any damage.

3. Shoe material

The type of material your shoes are made from will affect how they can be dried. Some materials, such as leather, can be damaged by heat, so it is important to check the care label before drying them. Other materials, such as canvas or nylon, are more durable and can withstand higher temperatures.

Facet 1: Natural materials
Natural materials, such as leather and suede, are more delicate and can be damaged by heat. If you are drying shoes made from natural materials, it is important to use a low heat setting and tumble them for a short period of time. You should also avoid over-drying natural materials, as this can cause them to become brittle and crack.
Facet 2: Synthetic materials
Synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, are more durable and can withstand higher temperatures. However, it is still important to check the care label before drying synthetic shoes, as some materials may be more delicate than others.
Facet 3: Combination materials
Many shoes are made from a combination of materials. For example, a shoe may have a leather upper and a rubber sole. When drying shoes made from a combination of materials, it is important to use the care instructions for the most delicate material. For example, if a shoe has a leather upper and a rubber sole, you should use the care instructions for leather.
Facet 4: Care label
The care label on your shoes will provide specific instructions on how to dry them. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid damaging your shoes.

By understanding the different types of shoe materials and following the care instructions, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and avoid any damage.

4. Shoe construction

When drying shoes in the dryer, it is important to consider the construction of the shoes. Shoes with glued or stitched soles are more likely to come apart in the dryer than shoes with cemented or vulcanized soles. This is because the heat and tumbling action of the dryer can weaken the glue or stitching that holds the soles in place.

Facet 1: Glued soles
Shoes with glued soles are constructed using a strong adhesive to attach the sole to the upper. This type of construction is common in less expensive shoes and can be weakened by the heat and tumbling action of the dryer. If you are drying shoes with glued soles, it is important to use a low heat setting and tumble the shoes for a short period of time.
Facet 2: Stitched soles
Shoes with stitched soles are constructed using thread to stitch the sole to the upper. This type of construction is more durable than glued soles, but it can still be weakened by the heat and tumbling action of the dryer. If you are drying shoes with stitched soles, it is important to use a low heat setting and tumble the shoes for a short period of time.
Facet 3: Cemented soles
Shoes with cemented soles are constructed using a strong adhesive and heat to attach the sole to the upper. This type of construction is more durable than glued or stitched soles and can withstand the heat and tumbling action of the dryer. If you are drying shoes with cemented soles, you can use a higher heat setting and tumble the shoes for a longer period of time.
Facet 4: Vulcanized soles
Shoes with vulcanized soles are constructed using a process that fuses the sole to the upper using heat and pressure. This type of construction is very durable and can withstand the heat and tumbling action of the dryer. If you are drying shoes with vulcanized soles, you can use a high heat setting and tumble the shoes for a longer period of time.

By understanding the different types of shoe construction, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and avoid any damage.

5. Shoe size

When considering whether or not you can dry shoes in the dryer, the size of the shoes is an important factor to consider. Large shoes may not fit in the dryer, and small shoes may get lost inside the dryer. This can lead to damage to the shoes or the dryer.

Facet 1: Size limitations of dryers
Dryers come in a variety of sizes, but most have a maximum capacity. If your shoes are too large, they may not fit in the dryer at all. This can be a problem for people with large feet or for people who wear boots or other large shoes.
Facet 2: Small shoes getting lost
Small shoes can also be a problem in the dryer. If your shoes are small enough, they may get lost inside the dryer. This can be a problem because it can be difficult to find small shoes once they have gotten lost in the dryer. Additionally, small shoes may get damaged if they are tumbled around in the dryer with larger shoes.
Facet 3: Tangling and damage
In addition to the risk of shoes getting lost or damaged, there is also the risk of shoes getting tangled together in the dryer. This can be a problem for any size shoes, but it is especially a problem for large shoes. When shoes get tangled together, they can be difficult to untangle. Additionally, the tangling can cause the shoes to be damaged.

If you are unsure whether or not your shoes will fit in the dryer, it is best to err on the side of caution and air dry them instead. Air drying is a gentler method of drying shoes and it will not damage your shoes or your dryer.

6. Dryer type

The type of dryer you have can affect how well your shoes dry. Some dryers have a delicate cycle that is better for drying shoes. This cycle uses a lower heat setting and a shorter drying time, which can help to prevent damage to your shoes.

If you are unsure whether or not your dryer has a delicate cycle, you can check the owner's manual. You can also look for a dryer with a "shoes" setting. This setting is typically designed to dry shoes at a lower temperature and for a shorter period of time.

Using the delicate cycle or the shoes setting on your dryer can help to extend the life of your shoes and prevent damage. It is important to note, however, that even with a delicate cycle, it is still possible to damage your shoes if you dry them too often or for too long. Therefore, it is important to follow the care instructions on your shoes and to air dry your shoes whenever possible.

7. Shoe laces

Removing shoe laces before drying shoes in the dryer is an important step that can help to prevent tangling and damage. Tangled shoe laces can be difficult to untangle, and they can also cause the shoes to dry unevenly. In addition, tangled shoe laces can put stress on the eyelets and other parts of the shoe, which can lead to damage.

Preventing tangles:
The primary reason to remove shoe laces before drying shoes in the dryer is to prevent tangling. When shoes are tumbled around in the dryer, the shoe laces can easily get tangled together. This can be a problem for any type of shoe lace, but it is especially a problem for long or delicate laces.
Even drying:
Removing shoe laces before drying shoes in the dryer can also help to ensure that the shoes dry evenly. When shoe laces are tangled together, they can prevent the air from circulating properly around the shoes. This can lead to the shoes drying unevenly, which can cause the shoes to become misshapen or damaged.
Protecting the shoes:
Tangled shoe laces can also put stress on the eyelets and other parts of the shoe. This can lead to damage to the shoes, such as torn eyelets or broken laces. Removing shoe laces before drying shoes in the dryer can help to protect the shoes from damage.

By following this simple tip, you can help to prevent tangling and damage to your shoes when drying them in the dryer. Simply remove the shoe laces before placing the shoes in the dryer, and then reinsert the laces once the shoes are dry.

8. Damp shoes

Drying shoes in the dryer is a convenient way to get them dry quickly, but it's important to be aware that over-drying can damage shoes. If your shoes are still damp after drying them in the dryer, you can air dry them by stuffing them with newspaper and placing them in a warm, dry place.

Absorbency of newspaper:
Newspaper is a highly absorbent material, which makes it ideal for drying shoes. The newspaper will absorb the moisture from the shoes, helping them to dry more quickly.
Circulation of air:
When you stuff shoes with newspaper, it's important to leave some space between the shoes and the newspaper. This will allow air to circulate around the shoes, which will help them to dry more evenly.
Warm, dry place:
The best place to air dry shoes is in a warm, dry place. This will help the shoes to dry more quickly and prevent them from developing mildew or other problems.
Patience:
Air drying shoes can take longer than drying them in the dryer. However, it is a gentler method that is less likely to damage your shoes.

By following these tips, you can air dry your shoes quickly and safely. This is a great way to extend the life of your shoes and keep them looking their best.

FAQs on Drying Shoes in the Dryer

Drying shoes in the dryer is a convenient way to get them dry quickly, but it's important to be aware of a few things to avoid damaging your shoes. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about drying shoes in the dryer:

Question 1: Can I dry all types of shoes in the dryer?

Answer: No, not all types of shoes can be dried in the dryer. Shoes made from delicate materials, such as leather or suede, should not be dried in the dryer. These materials can be damaged by the heat and tumbling action of the dryer. Additionally, shoes with glued or stitched soles may come apart in the dryer. It's always best to check the care label on your shoes to see if they are dryer-safe.

Question 2: What is the best way to dry shoes in the dryer?

Answer: To dry shoes in the dryer, place them in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from tangling and damage. Use a low heat setting and tumble the shoes for a short period of time. Over-drying can damage shoes, so it's important to check them frequently to make sure they are dry.

Question 3: Can I dry wet shoes in the dryer?

Answer: No, you should not dry wet shoes in the dryer. Wet shoes can damage the dryer and may also shrink or become misshapen. It's best to air dry wet shoes by stuffing them with newspaper and placing them in a warm, dry place.

Question 4: How long does it take to dry shoes in the dryer?

Answer: The drying time will vary depending on the type of shoes and the material they are made from. However, most shoes will dry in the dryer within 30 minutes to 1 hour. It's important to check the shoes frequently to make sure they are dry.

Question 5: What are some tips for drying shoes in the dryer?

Answer: Here are a few tips for drying shoes in the dryer:

Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the shoes from tangling and damage.
Use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the shoes.
Tumble the shoes for a short period of time to avoid over-drying.
Check the shoes frequently to make sure they are dry.
Air dry the shoes completely before wearing them to prevent moisture from building up inside the shoes.

Question 6: What should I do if my shoes get damaged in the dryer?

Answer: If your shoes get damaged in the dryer, you may be able to repair them. However, it's important to note that not all damage can be repaired. If your shoes are made from a delicate material, such as leather or suede, it's best to take them to a professional shoe repair shop.

By following these tips, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and avoid any damage.

Summary: Drying shoes in the dryer is a convenient way to get them dry quickly, but it's important to be aware of a few things to avoid damaging your shoes. Always check the care label on your shoes to see if they are dryer-safe, and use a low heat setting and tumble the shoes for a short period of time. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with a professional shoe repair shop.

Transition to the next article section: Drying shoes in the dryer is just one way to care for your shoes. In the next section, we'll discuss how to clean and maintain your shoes to keep them looking their best.

Tips on Drying Shoes in the Dryer

Drying shoes in the dryer is a convenient way to get them dry quickly, but it's important to do so carefully to avoid damaging them. Here are five tips to help you dry your shoes in the dryer safely and effectively:

Tip 1: Use a low heat setting. High heat can damage the materials in shoes, causing them to crack, shrink, or become misshapen. Always use the lowest heat setting possible to dry your shoes.

Tip 2: Tumble the shoes for a short period of time. Over-drying can also damage shoes. Only tumble your shoes for a short period of time, checking them frequently to make sure they are dry.

Tip 3: Use a mesh laundry bag. A mesh laundry bag will help to protect your shoes from tangling and getting damaged in the dryer. It will also help to keep small shoes from getting lost in the dryer.

Tip 4: Remove the shoes from the dryer as soon as they are dry. Leaving shoes in the dryer after they are dry can cause them to become over-dried and damaged.

Tip 5: Air dry the shoes completely before wearing them. This will help to prevent moisture from building up inside the shoes, which can lead to mildew and other problems.

By following these tips, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and keep them looking their best.

Summary: Drying shoes in the dryer is a convenient way to get them dry quickly, but it's important to do so carefully to avoid damaging them. Always use a low heat setting, tumble the shoes for a short period of time, use a mesh laundry bag, remove the shoes from the dryer as soon as they are dry, and air dry the shoes completely before wearing them.

Transition to the article's conclusion: Drying shoes in the dryer is just one part of shoe care. In the next section, we'll discuss how to clean and maintain your shoes to keep them looking their best.

Conclusion

Drying shoes in the dryer is a quick and convenient way to get them dry, but it's important to do so carefully to avoid damaging them. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can safely dry your shoes in the dryer and keep them looking their best.

Here are some key points to remember:

Not all shoes can be dried in the dryer. Check the care label on your shoes to see if they are dryer-safe.
Use a low heat setting and tumble the shoes for a short period of time to avoid over-drying.
Use a mesh laundry bag to protect your shoes from tangling and getting damaged in the dryer.
Remove the shoes from the dryer as soon as they are dry.
Air dry the shoes completely before wearing them to prevent moisture from building up inside the shoes.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your shoes looking their best for longer.

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