Learn the expert - approved way to dry out your shoes quickly and without heat damage .
Photo : Getty Images / Umida Kamalova
Whether you got caught in a torrent or maltreat in one pool too many , wet shoe happen . But regardless of how common smashed shoe might be , it does n’t make it any less saddening to see a best-loved pair end up soaked .

Credit:Photo: Getty Images / Umida Kamalova
The good newsworthiness is that drying your place is a bare process that involve just a small longanimity . We asked a laundry expert for the safest and most efficient method acting to dry out wet skid while avoid anyweird lingering odors — and if you ’re especially low-toned on fourth dimension , we ’ve got a method acting for that , too . Discover the safest way to dry your shoes chop-chop , without the risks that come withusing a dryer .
James Jounis the atomic number 27 - beginner and chief operating officeholder of Rinse , an on - demand laundry and dry cleaning pick-me-up and obstetrical delivery company .
How to Dry Wet Shoes
James Joun , co - founder and chief operating officer of Rinse , say the safe way to dry out wet brake shoe is by zephyr - drying them in a well - ventilate outer space . Though it might seem natural to put them somewhere warm to dry , high heatand direct sunlight can degrade adhesives or heave the shape of your shoes . alternatively , try this step - by - step guide to get your shoes clean , dry , and ready to wear again without make any damage .
Step 1: Remove the Insoles and Laces
Take out the innersole andunthread the lacesto permit each part to dry out more evenly and speedily .
Step 2: Blot with a Towel
mildly pat the interior and exterior of the brake shoe with a dry towel . This help absorb extra water before it can imbue deeper into the fabric .
Step 3: Stuff to Maintain Shape
sate the brake shoe with newspaper publisher towels , newspaper , or shoe Tree to aid absorb wet and maintain their shape as they dry out . For the best results , replace any dampness stuffing every few hours .
Step 4: Allow the Shoes to Air-Dry
Place the shoes in an opened , elevated area with well respiration to allow them aviation - dry . This can include go under the brake shoe on a drying single-foot , mesh shelf , or even propped on a few volume so air can freely circulate underneath . Positioning them near ( but not directly on ) a fan , open windowpane , orair ventcan also step on it up the drying process .
Step 5: Be Patient
hold back 12 to 24 hour for the shoes to totally dry out . The drying time might alter establish on the material , how soaked the shoes are , and the surrounding airflow orhumidity . slow or absorbent materials could also take longer to dry .
fend off salt away your shoes near direct estrus sources , such as radiators , fastball , or fireplace . This can warp the soles and damage your shoes .
What’s the Fastest Way to Dry Wet Shoes?
When you ’re low on fourth dimension , the fastest practical method acting for drying loaded shoes is to place them in front of a fan in a well - ventilated field . " This method avoids the risks of passion harm while still dry out the horseshoe relatively chop-chop , " Joun say . Removing the insoles and laces will also help air circulate inside the shoes , which can often reduce the dry out time by several hours .
If you need an even faster drying method , tryusing a dehumidifier . do it up in a small , enclosed space , like a bathroom or closet , and deactivate any heat configurations . " A dehumidifier , if used properly , can reduce drying time to a twosome of hour , count on the sizing of the enclosed infinite , " Joun say .
Why Do Shoes Smell Bad After Getting Wet?
If yourshoes reek worsethan common after getting wet , you ’re not imagining it . wet and body heat produce the idealistic conditions for bacteria and fungi to fly high , leading to those unpleasant olfactory sensation . To aid block the malodour before it starts , Joun recommends drying your shoes as quickly as possible using proper methods , like melodic phrase - dry out with breathing or a fan . Odor - campaign insoles , sprays , and lacing can also help absorb wet and neutralize odors .
If your feet incline to sweat frequently , always wear socks with your shoes to aid absorb sudor and moisture . " Without socks , perspiration will be absorbed by the horseshoe material , increase the humidity inside your shoe , " Joun articulate . Additionally , Joun recommends switching to more breathable footwear , like slippers or sandal , when you’re able to . This give up your other horseshoe more dry time when they ’re not in exercise , which can go a foresighted way in observe them refreshful and scent - devoid .
Frequently Asked Questions
It ’s not recommended to dry out place in a dryer because the heating and tumbling can damage their material , heave their shape , and weaken adhesives , especially in acrobatic , leather , or delicate shoe . drier can also do shrinking or make the shoes uncomfortable to wear .
In oecumenical , wait 12 - 24 hours for your shoe to fully air - dry . The dry sentence might variegate free-base on the material , how wet the place are , and the surrounding airflow or humidity . However , remove the insoles and laces before dry can often reduce the drying process if you ’re low on time .