Can you dry shoes in a tumble dryer?

Initially, dryers were designed exclusively for drying textiles, but owners quickly realized that shoes dried just as well. At first, this seemed like a violation of all possible operating rules, but it quickly became commonplace. Dryer manufacturers began producing models designed exclusively for drying shoes. The main distinguishing feature of these machines was their more gentle drying methods. However, even so, not every type of shoe can be dried.

Can you put shoes in the dryer?

Now we'll figure out how to properly dry shoes in a tumble dryer and what steps you need to take to achieve the desired result.

• Clothes shouldn't be left alone. When loading shoes into the dryer, add a few other items, such as an old blanket, to ensure even loading as the drum rotates. Otherwise, you risk damaging some of the shoe components. The extra weight also reduces the machine's inertia and operating noise.
• Shoes must be clean. Even the most reliable equipment can malfunction due to dust or dirt getting into it. Furthermore, when drying clothes, dirt from previously dried shoes that weren't cleaned properly can get onto them. Carefully inspect the soles of your shoes, as various small stones often get stuck there. Clean your shoes of dust and dirt. Then you need to remove the laces so that they do not get tangled during the drying process.

Important! If your shoes are glued and not stitched, it's best not to tumble dry them. This advice also applies to decorative elements such as rhinestones, sequins, beads, etc.

Some manufacturers' tumble dryers feature additional elements designed to ensure uniform drying of shoes. These are installed in the drum immediately before drying, and then the shoes are placed inside. This feature speeds up drying time.

The drying program is important

It's important to pay attention to the characteristics of each material. For example, suede or leather are very sensitive to high temperatures. To dry shoes made of these materials, you need to select the appropriate temperature setting. If your dryer model doesn't have this feature, choose the gentlest setting.

Particular attention should be paid to the express mode; it is not recommended to use it for drying shoes: the temperature in this mode can reach 60 degrees, which can lead to the destruction of the adhesive layer.

If your dryer has several gentle programs and you're unsure which one to choose, visit forums related to home appliances. You're sure to find helpful tips there to help you avoid common mistakes.

Shoes may be damaged

Some materials need to dry evenly over a long period of time. Drying machines accelerate moisture evaporation, which can damage the shoes. You shouldn't throw high-heeled shoes in the dryer, as you risk damaging not only your shoes, but also the dryer itself. Another problem can be cracked polish on sandals. If the temperature is not right, your favorite sneakers may shrink.

Sneakers are very sensitive footwear; most of the materials used in them are not designed to withstand high temperatures. The adhesive may lose its properties, the rubber may crack, and the cushioning components may lose their effectiveness. To avoid this, use special shoe racks and monitor the drying temperature.

Leather shoes can also shrink when exposed to high temperatures. After drying, use leather care products, sprays, or creams to preserve the leather's properties.

   

2 reader comments

1. October 13, 2021 at 3:25 PM

   Natalia:

   Thank you, your article helped me a lot.

   Answer
2. June 26, 2022 at 10:07 PM

   Natalia:

   What's important to me is the answer about the drum, not the quality of shoe drying.

   Answer