Introduction
It’s not uncommon to find yourself needing to dry shoes quickly when you’re running late or short on time. While the temptation to throw them in the dryer may be strong, it’s important to understand that drying your shoes in the dryer can cause irreparable damage if done incorrectly. With careful consideration and the right precautions, however, it is possible to dry shoes in the dryer without ruining them.
Use a Tennis Ball
One of the best ways to dry your shoes in the dryer is by using a tennis ball. The tennis ball helps break up the material in the shoes and prevents clumping while they’re in the dryer. It also helps reduce creasing and wrinkling, giving your shoes a more natural finish.
To use a tennis ball, simply place it in the dryer with your shoes. Make sure the tennis ball is clean and free of any dirt or debris, as this could transfer onto your shoes during the drying process. You should also make sure to check on the tennis ball periodically to ensure it doesn’t become too hot.
Place Shoes in Mesh Bag
Using a mesh bag is another great way to protect your shoes from damage while drying them in the dryer. Mesh bags allow air to circulate through the fabric and help prevent the shoes from becoming overly hot or damaged. It also helps keep small items like laces or insoles from getting stuck in the dryer.
Mesh bags can be found at most stores that sell laundry supplies, and they come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of shoes. When placing your shoes in the bag, make sure they are wrapped loosely so they have room to move around during the drying cycle.
Use Low Heat Setting
No matter what type of shoes you’re drying, it’s important to always use the lowest heat setting possible. Higher temperatures can cause the material to shrink or become discolored, so it’s best to err on the side of caution. Certain materials like leather or suede should never be placed in the dryer, as this could cause irreversible damage.
It’s also important to remember that some shoes may take longer to dry than others, depending on the material and thickness. If you’re unsure of the best temperature setting, it’s best to start with the lowest one and slowly increase it until the shoes are completely dry.
Remove Insoles
When drying shoes in the dryer, it’s important to remove the insoles before placing them in the machine. This will help prevent the insoles from becoming damaged or melting due to the heat. It’s also important to store the insoles separately, as they can become warped over time if left inside the shoes.
If the insoles are removable, you can place them in a separate mesh bag and place them in the dryer on a low heat setting. If the insoles are not removable, it’s best to let them air dry outside of the dryer.
Add a Towel for Extra Protection
Adding a towel to the dryer is another great way to protect your shoes from damage. The towel will help absorb any excess moisture and will also provide a cushion between the shoes and the dryer walls. This can help reduce the risk of scuffing or tearing the material.
When adding a towel to the dryer, make sure it is light and thin so it doesn’t add too much bulk to the load. You should also avoid using towels that are too fluffy, as these can trap moisture and actually slow down the drying process.
Check Shoes Regularly
It’s important to check on your shoes throughout the drying process to make sure they’re not becoming too hot or too wet. If the shoes become too hot, turn off the dryer and allow them to cool down before continuing. If the shoes become too wet, add a few more towels to help absorb the moisture.
You should also check the shoes every 10 minutes or so to make sure they are drying properly. If the shoes are still damp after a full cycle, it’s best to turn off the dryer and allow them to air dry instead.
Always Air Dry Afterwards
Once the shoes are dry, it’s important to air dry them for an additional hour or two. This will help ensure the material does not become brittle or cracked due to the heat. You can also add a few drops of leather conditioner or shoe polish to help protect the material from further damage.
If you’re air drying outside, make sure to avoid direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This could cause the material to fade or crack over time.
Conclusion
Drying shoes in the dryer can be a great way to save time, but it’s important to do it correctly in order to avoid damaging your shoes. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can successfully dry your shoes in the dryer without risking irreparable damage.
Always remember to use a tennis ball, place your shoes in a mesh bag, use a low heat setting, remove the insoles, add a towel for extra protection, check your shoes regularly, and always air dry afterwards. Following these steps will help ensure your shoes are dried properly and remain in good condition.
