We have all had wet shoes and wet socks either by stepping in a puddle or getting caught in the rain. It can be frustrating dealing with wet shoes, especially when we need them ready for the next run. When your running shoes are wet we need them dry as soon as possible so there is little downtime when it comes to running or doing errands. We should all know how to dry out shoes efficiently and safely so we can continue to do the things we love.
What is the Quickest Way to Dry Shoes?
Many people have tried numerous ways to dry their athletic shoes, and most can be harmful to the integrity of the shoe materials and form of the shoe. Unfortunately, there is no quick way of drying your shoes. If you do take a shortcut in drying them you run a high risk of ruining your pair of well-fitted sneakers.
Is it ok to Put Shoes in the Dryer?
In short, you should never put your athletic shoes in the dryer. The heat can cause the glue that holds the soles of your shoes together to come undone, and it can also cause the shoes to shrink. Additionally, the material of your shoes may break down and cause them to fall apart.
Can I Use a Hair Dryer on Wet Shoes?
While it can be tempting to use a hair dryer to quickly dry your shoes, this is generally not a good idea. Exposing your shoes to the intense heat of a hair dryer for extended periods can damage the rubber, glue, and other materials used to make them. In addition, the heat from a hair dryer can cause the fabric of your shoes to shrink, making them uncomfortable to wear.
Running Shoes and their Care Instructions
Running shoes are made to be lightweight and comfortable, and they need to be taken care of to maintain those features. The best way to clean running shoes is by wiping them down with a damp cloth. If they are really dirty, you can use a mild detergent diluted in water, but make sure to rinse them well afterward. Running shoes should never be put in the dryer, as this will cause them to lose their shape and comfort. Instead, they should be air-dried in a cool place. You can stuff them with newspapers to help absorb moisture or use a high speed fan and speed up the drying process. Finally, store your running shoes in a cool, dry place when they are not being used. This will help them last longer and stay in good condition.
Can Running Shoes Go in the Washer?
Although it may seem like a convenient option, you should never put your running shoes in the washing machine. The washer can damage the shoes, causing them to break down more quickly. Instead, wash your shoes by hand using Nike's 6-step guide. This is summarized in these steps from Nike:
•To clean shoes, first remove loose dirt with a dry, soft-bristled brush.
• Make a mild cleaning solution with warm water and laundry detergent or dish soap. For white shoes, mix baking soda and water to create a paste.
• Hand wash the laces in the mild solution, then rinse and dab dry with a soft cloth.
• Wash the soles of the shoes thoroughly before drying with a soft cloth.
• Apply the mild solution to the uppers of the shoe and scrub gently before blotting dry with a microfiber towel or other soft cloth.
• Air dry at room temperature for 8 hours or more before wearing again.
How Do You Dry Running Shoes Quickly After Washing Them?
The air dry method is by far the superior method, and here are a few tricks to help dry faster. You can dry running shoes after washing them by placing them in the sun in a well ventilated area. If you choose to put them in direct sunlight, make sure to place them in a sunny spot and not a spot with high heat, as this could damage the shoes. Additionally, you can remove the insoles and laces from the shoes before drying them to help speed up the process. Whichever method you choose, make sure to check on the shoes periodically to ensure they are not being damaged.
Storing Wet Running Shoes
When your running shoes get wet, you should store them somewhere where there is airflow. If you put them in a shoe box, make sure to leave the lid off so that air can circulate. Another way to store your soaking wet shoes to air dry is a mesh laundry bag. Not only does it keep your shoes in a bag for transportation, but it also helps with the drying process. Don't store your wet shoes in a gym bag or a bag with no air circulation, it won't help dry your running shoes. Wet shoes can lead to bacteria growth, which can cause foot problems.
How do I Prevent My Shoes From Getting Wet?
You can prevent this by waterproofing your running shoes or buying a pair of waterproof running shoes. Click here to read about it in our previous post.
Experts on Whether or Not You Should Put Your Running Shoes in the Dryer
According to the specialists at Very Well Fit, you should never dry them in the dryer, on the heat vent, or a shoe dryer. The material and soles of your shoes may be damaged by high temperatures.
According to the author and owner of Run-Fit, you shouldn't wash your running shoes in the machine or dryer because this can damage the shock-absorbing materials within the shoe and its form.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the best way to care for your running shoes is by air drying them, and not use the dryer to dry your running shoes; it's important to follow these instructions to maintain their quality and keep them comfortable. If you have any questions about how to properly take care of your shoes, be sure to contact us for more information. We want to make sure you stay safe and healthy while running, so don't hesitate to ask!
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