FAQs: Can You Put Shoes in a Tumble Dryer?

It’s a common question: can you put shoes in a tumble dryer? Whether you’ve just washed your favorite sneakers, boots, or slippers, and you’re wondering if the dryer is a good option, or if you’re simply looking for ways to speed up the drying process, this blog post will answer all your frequently asked questions on this topic.

1. Can you put shoes in a tumble dryer?

Technically, yes, you can put shoes in a tumble dryer, but it’s not always the best idea. Some shoes can handle the heat and tumbling, but others might suffer damage. It’s important to consider the type of shoes, the material they’re made from, and the care instructions before making this decision.

2. What types of shoes can you put in the tumble dryer?

• Sneakers or sports shoes: Many synthetic or fabric sneakers can go in the dryer, but it’s important to check if they have delicate components like rubber soles or leather accents, which may be damaged.
• Flip-flops or sandals: These are generally safe in the dryer, especially if they’re made of synthetic materials. However, avoid placing shoes with straps or delicate features in the dryer.
• Canvas shoes: Canvas shoes, like Converse, are usually dryer-safe if they're placed in a pillowcase or laundry bag to avoid direct contact with the dryer drum.

Before drying, always remove the laces and insoles. Insoles can become misshapen and cause damage, while laces may get tangled or damaged.

3. What types of shoes should never be put in the tumble dryer?

• Leather shoes: Leather can crack, warp, and lose its natural shape when exposed to high heat. It’s best to air-dry leather shoes away from direct heat sources.
• Suede shoes: Suede is a delicate material that can shrink or become stiff and damaged in the dryer.
• High heels or dress shoes: These can lose their shape, and the heat could also affect the glue or other materials used in their construction.
• Shoes with glued components: Shoes that have been glued together, rather than stitched, can have the glue weakened or melted in the dryer, causing them to fall apart.

4. What happens if you put shoes in the tumble dryer?

When you put shoes in the dryer, the heat and tumbling action can cause several issues:

• Shrinking: Some materials, especially leather and fabric, may shrink.
• Warping: The heat can cause soles, insoles, or the shoe structure to warp or lose their shape.
• Color fading: The heat can cause colors to fade, especially on delicate or bright shoes.
• Damage to adhesives: Shoes with glued parts may come apart, as heat can weaken adhesives.

To prevent these issues, always check the care label on your shoes and avoid putting them in the dryer if the label warns against it.

5. How can I safely dry shoes in a tumble dryer?

If you decide to risk putting your shoes in the dryer, here are a few tips to minimize the potential damage:

• Use a low heat setting: High heat is more likely to cause damage, so opt for a low or air-only setting to gently dry your shoes.
• Use a laundry bag: Placing your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase can protect them from tumbling too harshly and prevent direct contact with the dryer drum.
• Remove insoles and laces: Always take out the insoles and laces to prevent them from getting damaged or tangled during the drying process.
• Add towels for balance: To reduce the noise and prevent the shoes from knocking around too much, add a few towels to the dryer. They will help cushion your shoes and prevent them from banging against the drum.

6. Is there an alternative way to dry shoes without a tumble dryer?

Yes, air drying is often the best and safest way to dry shoes. Here’s how you can do it:

• Remove insoles and laces: This will help your shoes dry more evenly.
• Stuff shoes with newspaper or towels: This helps absorb moisture and maintain the shape of the shoes as they dry.
• Place them in a well-ventilated area: Avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause some materials, like leather and rubber, to crack or fade. A cool, dry area with plenty of airflow is ideal for drying shoes.
• Use a shoe dryer or boot dryer: There are special shoe dryers available that use gentle heat to dry shoes quickly without causing damage.

7. How long does it take to dry shoes in the tumble dryer?

Drying time varies depending on the material and size of the shoes, but typically, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour on a low heat setting. Be sure to check periodically to avoid overheating or damage.

8. How do I prevent shoes from smelling after drying them?

If your shoes develop an odor after drying, try these tips:

• Use odor-fighting insoles: Replace or add new insoles with odor-reducing properties.
• Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes and leave them overnight to absorb moisture and smells.
• Essential oils: Place a cotton ball with a few drops of essential oil inside your shoes for a fresh scent.

9. Can I dry shoes with a dryer rack instead of a tumble dryer?

If you want to avoid the risk of damaging your shoes in the dryer, using a dryer rack is a great alternative. A dryer rack allows air to circulate around your shoes while keeping them in a gentle, controlled drying environment. Most tumble dryers come with a built-in rack for drying shoes, which helps avoid direct contact with heat. This is a great option for delicate shoes or shoes that you don’t want to risk shrinking or warping.

10. Can I dry my shoes in the tumble dryer after they've been washed?

After washing shoes, especially in a machine, it’s often better to air dry them. The washing process already exposes shoes to moisture, so putting them in the tumble dryer afterward may cause damage. If you do need to dry them quickly, follow the earlier tips for using low heat and adding a towel to the dryer to minimize the risks.

Final Thoughts

While it is technically possible to put shoes in a tumble dryer, it’s important to exercise caution. Shoes made from sensitive materials like leather or suede should never be dried in a dryer, as it can cause irreversible damage. For most sneakers or fabric shoes, using a low heat setting with protective measures, like a laundry bag, can reduce risks.

Ultimately, the safest method is to air dry your shoes in a well-ventilated area, ensuring they last longer and maintain their shape. When in doubt, always check the care instructions specific to your shoes to avoid damaging them in the drying process.