White Hey Dude shoes look clean and stylish when new, but even a small stain can ruin their appearance if they’re cleaned the wrong way. So you must have to know how to clean white Hey Dudes. White Hey Dude shoes are easy to clean when the correct method is used for the specific material.
The safest way to clean white Hey Dudes is to remove the insoles and laces, use cold or lukewarm water with a mild detergent, gently clean by hand or on a low machine cycle (for washable materials), and always air-dry them away from heat. Using hot water or dryers can cause stretching, shrinkage, or permanent damage.
In this guide is based on hands-on experience with suede, canvas, Sox, wool, and leather Hey Dude shoes. I’ll show you exact, material-specific cleaning methods, how to remove common stains like dirt, grease, ink, and odor, and how to clean laces and insoles without ruining the shoe’s shape, color, or comfort. The goal is not just clean shoes—but keeping your white Hey Dudes looking new for as long as possible.
How to Clean White Hey Dude Shoes
Cleaning white Hey Dudes requires a careful balance of gentle handling, controlled moisture, and material awareness. Because these shoes are lightweight and flexible, harsh scrubbing or excessive water can weaken fibers and distort their shape. Separating removable parts and cleaning them individually helps maintain structure, comfort, and long-term wear.
Equally important is matching the cleaning approach to both fabric type and stain nature. Surface dirt, oil marks, and odor buildup respond differently to moisture and friction. Using measured techniques, mild solutions, and slow air drying ensures even cleaning while preserving color, fit, and durability.
Methods of Cleaning Hey Dude Shoes
Washing White Hey Dudes in a Machine
Machine washing is suitable for canvas, suede, and Sox white Hey Dudes when done carefully. This method works best for evenly distributed dirt and general wear rather than isolated stains.
Best practices for machine washing:
- Remove insoles and laces before washing
- Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag to prevent twisting
- Use cold water and a mild detergent only
- Select a gentle or low-spin cycle
- Wash with light items to balance the load
Machine washing should never be combined with heat drying. After washing, reshape the shoes and allow them to air dry naturally to maintain fit and color.
Clean White Hey Dudes By Hand
Hand washing offers the highest level of control and is ideal for spot stains, mixed materials, and shoes that require minimal water exposure. This method reduces the risk of fiber weakening or discoloration.
How to hand wash Hey Dudes safely:
- Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water
- Add a small amount of mild detergent or shampoo
- Use a soft brush or cloth to lift stains gently
- Clean uppers, insoles, and laces separately
- Rinse lightly to avoid detergent buildup
Hand washing is especially effective for grease, ink, and surface dirt, where precision matters more than saturation.
Spray Washing White Hey Dudes
Spray washing is a low-moisture cleaning method designed for quick refreshes and light stains. It works well for shoes that are water-resistant or treated with a protective spray.
When and how to use spray washing:
- Use a shoe-safe cleaning spray or diluted solution
- Spray lightly on the stained area only
- Gently agitate with a soft brush
- Wipe residue with a clean, dry cloth
- Let shoes air dry completely before wearing
Spray washing helps maintain cleanliness between deeper washes and reduces frequent water exposure, extending the life of white Hey Dudes.
Best Way To Clean Hey Dude Shoes
Clean White Suede Hey Dudes
White suede Hey Dudes are soft, breathable, and flexible, which makes them comfortable but sensitive to heat. While suede can tolerate water better than leather, excessive agitation or high temperatures can permanently damage the structure.
Remove the insoles and laces before cleaning. Place the shoes in a mesh bag, wash them on a low cycle using cold water and mild detergent, and avoid heavy spin settings. After washing, rinse thoroughly to remove residue and allow the shoes to air dry in a shaded, ventilated area. Heat sources such as dryers or heaters should never be used.
Clean White Sox Hey Dudes
White Sox Hey Dudes are designed to be lightweight and water-resistant, making them easier to clean with controlled moisture. However, they are not fully waterproof and should not be oversoaked.
Prepare a mild cleaning solution using water and detergent, then remove the insoles and laces. Use a soft toothbrush to lift stains such as grass, grease, or ink. For light dirt or dried blood, spot cleaning may be sufficient. To extend cleanliness and protection, a waterproof spray can help reduce future staining.
Clean White Wool Hey Dudes
Wool Hey Dudes require a more cautious approach due to their limited flexibility and higher sensitivity to water. Before washing, assess whether the stain truly requires soaking or if surface cleaning will suffice.
Mud-heavy stains may require gentle soaking and brushing, followed by careful rinsing and air drying. For smaller marks, toothpaste or a mild cleaning agent applied with a soft brush is often enough. Odors caused by moisture can be treated with baking soda or vinegar without washing, preserving the integrity of the wool.
Clean White Canvas Hey Dudes
Canvas Hey Dudes are highly breathable and stretchable, but their open weave allows dirt to settle quickly. Regular maintenance is essential to keep white canvas looking clean and fresh.
These shoes can be cleaned by hand or on a gentle machine cycle using cold water. Avoid prolonged soaking, as repeated water exposure can weaken recycled fibers. Applying a water-repellent spray after cleaning helps protect the material and reduces the need for frequent washing.
Clean White Leather Hey Dudes
White leather Hey Dudes are the most delicate and should not be cleaned with water unless they have been properly waterproofed. Water exposure can dry out leather, leading to stiffness and cracking over time.
The safest method is to wipe the surface with a dry or slightly damp cloth and apply a leather conditioner or polish to maintain softness and color. If the shoes are treated with a waterproofing product, light cleaning with minimal water may be possible, but conditioning should always follow.
People Also Ask
What is the Hey Dude controversy?
The Hey Dude controversy mainly centers on durability expectations versus lightweight design, with some users misunderstanding proper care and washing limits. Most issues arise from improper cleaning methods, not manufacturing defects.
Can you wash suede Hey Dude shoes?
Yes, suede Hey Dudes can be washed only on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent. They must be air dried naturally, as heat permanently damages suede fibers.
How can I get my white shoes white again?
Restoring white shoes requires gentle cleaning, residue removal, and controlled drying. Avoid bleach and heat, as they cause yellowing and material breakdown over time.
How to clean white canvas Hey Dudes?
White canvas Hey Dudes should be cleaned using cold water, mild detergent, and light agitation. Machine wash on low or hand wash, then air dry to preserve shape and color.
How to clean white canvas shoes with toothpaste?
Use non-gel white toothpaste and a soft brush to lift surface stains gently. Wipe with a damp cloth and allow the shoes to air dry completely.
Final Words
Knowing how to clean white Hey Dudes shoes properly makes the difference between shoes that fade quickly and shoes that stay fresh, flexible, and comfortable. By choosing the right method for each material, controlling moisture, and avoiding heat, you protect both appearance and structure. With consistent, gentle care, white Hey Dudes can maintain their clean look and reliable comfort long after everyday wear.