Maintaining the pristine look of your Hey Dude shoes requires careful attention, especially for materials like canvas, suede, leather, wool, and Sox. Learning how to clean Hey Dude by hand ensures your shoes stay fresh, durable, and free from scuffs, stains, or damage.
To clean Hey Dudes by hand, gently remove the laces and insoles, scrub the shoes with a soft brush or cloth using mild detergent and cold water, then rinse and air dry in a shaded area. This careful, material-specific approach—whether for canvas, suede, leather, wool, or Sox—prevents damage, preserves shape, and removes stains effectively.
In this guide, we provide expert-backed, step-by-step methods for hand cleaning every type of Hey Dude material safely, preserving both style and comfort.
How to Clean Hey Dude By Hand?
Cleaning Hey Dude shoes by hand is the safest way to keep them fresh, stylish, and long-lasting. Remove the laces and insoles, then gently scrub the shoes using a soft brush or cloth with mild detergent and cold water. Rinse thoroughly and air dry in a shaded area to maintain their shape and prevent damage.
This careful, material-specific method works for canvas, suede, leather, wool, and Sox Hey Dudes, effectively removing dirt, stains, and odors. Following these expert-approved hand-cleaning steps preserves the shoe’s texture, color, and flexibility. By mastering this approach, your Hey Dudes will stay comfortable, durable, and looking like new for everyday wear.
Best Way To Clean Hey Dudes By Hand
Cleaning Canvas Hey Dudes by Hand
Canvas Hey Dudes are comfortable, breathable, and easy to maintain, but overexposure to water can cause discoloration or deterioration. Hand cleaning is recommended for delicate or heavily stained pairs.
Steps for Hand Cleaning Canvas Hey Dudes:
- Remove the laces and insoles to access all areas.
- Use cold water and mild detergent with a soft brush or cloth.
- Gently scrub dirt and stains, paying attention to seams and grooves.
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry in a shaded area.
Handling Specific Stains on Canvas
- Mud Stains:
Scrape off dried mud with a knife or toothpick, then wipe with clean water. For stubborn mud, soak in a mild detergent solution and gently scrub. - Grass Stains:
Soak in cold water with mild detergent for 1 hour, then gently scrub. Nail polish remover can be used for older stains. - Grease or Tar Stains:
Use a cotton swab with clear nail polish remover or soak in dish detergent solution. Avoid colored removers to prevent staining. - Blood and General Stains:
Dab gently with fresh water or mild detergent. Magic erasers can be effective without harsh chemicals.
2. Cleaning Leather Hey Dudes by Hand
Leather Hey Dudes are delicate and should never be machine washed. Excessive water can crack leather, so careful hand cleaning is essential.
Steps for Hand Cleaning Leather Hey Dudes:
- Wipe the surface with a damp cloth or saddle soap.
- Use a cotton swab with soapy water for stubborn stains like ink or grease.
- Apply leather conditioner to keep the surface supple and prevent cracking.
- Optional: Apply a thin layer of beeswax for weather protection.
- Buff lightly to maintain shine, avoiding excessive polish.
This approach preserves the leather’s texture, color, and durability while removing stains safely.
3. Cleaning Sox Hey Dudes by Hand
Sox Hey Dudes are water-resistant but not waterproof, requiring prompt cleaning to prevent odors and bacterial buildup.
Steps for Hand Cleaning Sox Hey Dudes:
- Mix mild detergent with cold water and soak the shoes for 2–3 hours.
- Press gently to allow water and detergent to penetrate the fibers.
- Remove dirt clumps with a toothpick or knife for deep stains.
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
Additional Tips: Baking soda can absorb odors, scented dryer sheets can refresh interiors, and freezing can eliminate bacteria.
4. Cleaning Wool Hey Dudes by Hand
Wool Hey Dudes are delicate and prone to shrinkage or damage if machine washed. Hand cleaning ensures they retain their shape and comfort.
Steps for Hand Cleaning Wool Hey Dudes:
- Use a wool-safe detergent and cold water.
- Soak a microfiber cloth or soft brush in the solution and gently clean without fully submerging.
- Hang to dry in a shaded area; avoid heat or dryers.
- Stuff lightly inside to maintain shape without overstretching.
This method prevents shrinkage, preserves softness, and removes dirt and stains efficiently.
5. Cleaning Suede Hey Dudes by Hand
Suede is delicate and requires careful attention to maintain its texture and flexibility.
Steps for Hand Cleaning Suede Hey Dudes:
- Use a suede cleaning kit or specialized tools like crepe rubber or suede erasers.
- For stains, lightly steam to lift dirt, then wipe gently. Avoid excessive water or harsh chemicals.
- Remove gum by freezing and gently scraping off residue.
- Apply a suede protector spray to prevent future stains.
- Air dry in a cool, shaded area; avoid fans or heat sources that can warp the material.
Suede cleaning emphasizes careful handling to maintain softness and appearance.
People Also Ask
How to clean Hey Dude shoes by hand using vinegar?
Vinegar can gently lift stains from canvas or suede Hey Dudes, but it must be diluted with water to prevent damage. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts cold water, dampen a cloth, and lightly blot the affected areas, then rinse with clean water and air dry.
Do Hey Dude shoes shrink when washed?
Yes, Hey Dude shoes—especially wool and suede—can shrink if exposed to heat or machine washing. Hand cleaning with cold water and gentle handling preserves their shape, flexibility, and comfort.
Can Hey Dudes go in water?
Hey Dudes are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. Occasional exposure to water is safe, but prolonged soaking can affect the material’s structure and color. Prompt cleaning and careful drying are essential to maintain their durability.
Final Words
Hand cleaning your Hey Dude shoes is the safest way to maintain their style, comfort, and longevity. By following material-specific steps for canvas, leather, Sox, wool, and suede, you can remove stains effectively without risking damage. Using gentle brushes, mild detergents, and proper drying techniques ensures your Hey Dudes stay fresh, odor-free, and durable, making them ideal for everyday wear.