Drying shoes in the dryer can be done effectively and safely by following these steps:
Preparation: Before putting the shoes in the dryer, check the manufacturer's label to ensure they are dryer-safe. Not all shoes can be dried in the dryer, especially those with delicate materials or glued parts.
Remove Excess Moisture: If your shoes are soaking wet, try to remove as much moisture as possible before putting them in the dryer. You can use a dry towel or paper towels to blot the excess water from the shoes.
Use a Shoe Rack or Mesh Bag: To protect the shoes and prevent them from tumbling and getting damaged in the dryer, place them on a shoe rack or inside a mesh laundry bag designed for shoes. This will help maintain their shape and avoid banging against the dryer drum.
Add Towels: To speed up the drying process and reduce noise, you can add a couple of dry towels along with the shoes in the dryer.
Dry on Low Heat: Set the dryer to a low heat or delicate cycle. Avoid using high heat as it may damage certain shoe materials or cause the adhesives to weaken.
Avoid Over-Drying: Keep an eye on the drying process, and remove the shoes from the dryer as soon as they are dry. Over-drying can cause shrinkage or damage to the shoes.
Stuff with Newspaper or Paper Towels (Optional): If your shoes are still damp after the initial drying cycle, you can stuff them with crumpled newspaper or paper towels to absorb remaining moisture. Leave them for a while before checking again.
Air Dry (Optional): If you're unsure about using the dryer, or if the shoes are made of materials that may not react well to heat, opt for air-drying instead. Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, preferably near a fan or open window, to allow them to dry naturally.
Always check the care instructions and warnings provided by the shoe manufacturer to ensure you are not damaging your shoes in the drying process. Remember that some shoes, especially those made of leather or certain synthetic materials, are better off being air-dried to maintain their integrity and appearance.