Can You Put Shoes in the Dryer? The Truth About Drying Your Sneakers Safely

We've all been there—you just cleaned your white shoes, and now they're soaking wet. You're wondering: can you put shoes in the dryer, or will that ruin your favorite pair? Whether you're dealing with everyday walking shoes or athletic sneakers, understanding the right way to dry your footwear can save you from costly mistakes.

Quick Answer Summary

Is It Okay If I Put My Shoes in the Dryer?

Let's get straight to it: putting your shoes in the dryer is generally not a good idea, even if you're in a rush. Here's why this convenience comes with significant risks.

When you put wet shoes in the dryer, you're exposing them to intense heat and tumbling action that most footwear simply isn't designed to handle. Think of it like putting a delicate sweater through a high-heat cycle—the results are rarely what you hoped for.

What Happens When You Put Shoes in the Dryer

The high heat can cause several problems:

• Adhesive breakdown: The glue holding your shoes together can weaken or melt, causing soles to separate or uppers to detach

• Material warping: Heat causes materials like leather, synthetic fabrics, and foam to shrink, warp, or become misshapen

• Cushioning damage: The EVA foam and other cushioning materials in your comfortable everyday shoes can compress permanently, losing their supportive properties

• Color fading: Heat accelerates color loss, especially in darker or vibrant shoes

• Structural integrity issues: The tumbling action can damage internal supports and break down stitching

Important Note: Even shoes that survive one dryer cycle may have invisible damage that shortens their lifespan significantly.

Can You Put Tennis Shoes in the Dryer? Understanding the Risks

If you're wondering whether you can put tennis shoes in the dryer specifically, the answer is: it's risky, but slightly less dangerous than drying dress shoes or leather footwear.

Athletic shoes and tennis shoes are typically made with more durable synthetic materials that can sometimes tolerate gentle drying. However, this doesn't mean it's safe or recommended.

When You Might Consider It (With Extreme Caution)

There are limited circumstances where putting tennis shoes in the dryer might be your only option:

• You need them dry within hours for an important event

• They're inexpensive shoes you don't mind potentially ruining

• You're dealing with canvas sneakers that are relatively sturdy

• No other drying method is available

If you find yourself in this situation, you'll need to take specific precautions to minimize damage.

Can You Put Shoes in the Washer and Dryer? The Complete Process

We understand that washing and drying your shoes at home is convenient. If you've already washed your shoes in the washing machine, you might be tempted to complete the process in the dryer.

The Washing Machine Component

Before we discuss drying, let's quickly address the washing part. You can put certain shoes in the washer, but only if:

• They're primarily canvas, nylon, or polyester (like many Atoms sneakers)

• They don't have delicate embellishments

• You use a gentle cycle with cold water

• You place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase

The Dryer Dilemma

Even if your shoes survived the washing machine well, the dryer presents different challenges. The combination of heat and tumbling is much harsher than gentle washing.

Here's the reality: Just because shoes can go through the washer doesn't automatically mean they should go in the dryer. These are two completely different processes with different risk levels.

How to Safely Dry Shoes in the Dryer (If You Must)

If you absolutely must put your shoes in the dryer despite the risks, follow these steps to minimize potential damage:

Preparation Steps

1. Remove insoles and laces: Take out the insoles and laces completely—these should always air dry separately

2. Stuff with towels: Place small towels inside each shoe to help maintain shape and absorb moisture

3. Use a protective barrier: Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase and tie it closed

4. Add buffer materials: Throw in several dry towels to cushion the impact

Dryer Settings

• Heat level: Use the lowest heat setting or air-dry/no-heat option if available

• Time: Set for 20 minutes maximum initially

• Suspension method: If your dryer has a drying rack, use it. Otherwise, tie the laces together and hang the shoes from the dryer door (keeping the door slightly open)

Monitoring Process

Check your shoes every 10 minutes. If they're still damp after 20 minutes, remove them and finish air drying rather than continuing the cycle.

Pro Tip: If your shoes have special features like cushioned insoles for comfort, remove these before any heat exposure to preserve their supportive properties.

How Can I Dry My Shoes Fast? Better Alternatives to the Dryer

You want your shoes dry quickly, but you don't want to ruin them. Here are faster, safer alternatives that won't compromise your footwear's integrity.

The Fan Method (4-6 Hours)

This is our top recommendation for fast drying:

1. Remove the insoles and laces

2. Stuff shoes loosely with crumpled newspaper or paper towels (replace every hour)

3. Position a box fan or floor fan directly at the shoes

4. Place shoes in front of the fan's airflow

5. Check every 2 hours and replace stuffing material

This method works remarkably well and is completely safe for all shoe types, including your Model 000s or Model 001s.

The Boot Dryer Method (2-4 Hours)

Invest in a boot dryer or shoe dryer device. These specialized tools use gentle, warm air circulation without tumbling or excessive heat. They're particularly useful if you frequently need to dry shoes, such as for athletic activities or rainy climates.

The Newspaper Method (8-12 Hours)

This traditional method is slow but extremely gentle:

1. Remove insoles and laces

2. Crumple newspaper and stuff it tightly into each shoe

3. Wrap the outside of shoes with newspaper

4. Place in a warm (not hot), dry area with good air circulation

5. Replace newspaper every 2-3 hours as it becomes saturated

The Rice Method (6-10 Hours)

Similar to saving a wet phone, rice can help with wet shoes:

1. Fill a large container or bag with uncooked rice

2. Remove insoles and laces from shoes

3. Bury shoes in the rice, ensuring they're completely covered

4. Let sit for several hours, checking periodically

The rice absorbs moisture from the air around the shoes, speeding up the drying process.

How Long Can Shoes Go in the Dryer? Understanding Time Limits

If you've decided to use the dryer despite our recommendations, understanding time limits is crucial for damage control.

Maximum Safe Duration

20-30 minutes total is the absolute maximum time shoes should spend in a dryer, even on low heat. Beyond this threshold, you're almost guaranteed to cause damage.

Why Time Matters

Every minute in the dryer increases the likelihood of:

• Heat exposure damage accumulating in materials

• Structural stress from repeated tumbling impacts

• Adhesive weakening reaching critical failure points

• Shape distortion becoming permanent

The Check-In Schedule

If you're drying shoes in the dryer, check them at these intervals:

• 10 minutes: First check—assess heat level and dampness

• 20 minutes: Second check—if still wet, remove and air dry the rest

• 30 minutes: Absolute maximum—remove immediately regardless of dampness

Remember, it's better to finish with air drying than to risk complete shoe failure.

Can You Put Your Shoes in the Dryer? Material-Specific Guidance

Different shoe materials react differently to dryer heat. Here's what you need to know about your specific shoes.

Canvas and Cotton Shoes

These are the most dryer-tolerant materials, though we still recommend air drying when possible. If you must use a dryer:

• Use low heat only

• Limit to 20 minutes maximum

• Expect some potential shrinkage (especially cotton)

Synthetic Athletic Shoes

Modern athletic shoes contain various synthetic materials (polyester, nylon, synthetic leather) that react unpredictably to heat:

• Some synthetics melt at relatively low temperatures

• Mesh panels can warp or shrink unevenly

• Synthetic leather can crack or peel

Your Atoms shoes, designed with premium materials for all-day comfort, should always be air-dried to maintain their engineered cushioning and support.

Leather Shoes

Never put leather shoes in the dryer. The heat will:

• Cause leather to crack and become brittle

• Lead to permanent shrinkage

• Damage the natural oils that keep leather supple

• Ruin the finish and color

For leather footwear, air drying in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat is the only safe option.

Suede and Nubuck

Like leather, suede and nubuck should never go in the dryer. The heat will mat down the nap (the fuzzy texture) permanently and can cause discoloration.

Shoes with Special Features

If your shoes have any of these features, dryer heat is especially risky:

• Gel or air cushioning systems: Heat can burst or deform these

• Reflective materials: May separate or peel

• Waterproof membranes: Heat damages the sealed layers

• Embedded electronics: Obviously, heat and tumbling will destroy these

The Science Behind Why Heat Damages Shoes

Understanding why heat is problematic helps you make better decisions about shoe care.

Adhesive Chemistry

Modern shoes rely on polyurethane adhesives to bond different components. These adhesives are designed to remain flexible at normal temperatures but have a specific heat threshold. Most shoe adhesives begin to soften around 140-160°F—well within the range of a typical dryer on medium or high heat.

When the adhesive softens, the mechanical stress from tumbling can pull components apart. Even if the shoe appears intact afterward, the bond has been weakened, leading to eventual separation.

Material Thermal Expansion

Different materials in your shoes expand and contract at different rates when heated. This creates internal stress:

• The rubber sole expands differently than the fabric upper

• Foam cushioning compresses under heat

• Synthetic overlays may shrink while the base material doesn't

These mismatched reactions can warp your shoes or create permanent structural changes.

Polymer Degradation

Many shoe components—from EVA foam in midsoles to synthetic fabrics in uppers—are polymers that degrade with heat exposure. Each heating cycle causes molecular changes that make the material less flexible, less durable, and more prone to failure.

Protecting Your Investment: Special Care for Quality Shoes

If you've invested in quality comfortable shoes designed for all-day wear, proper care is essential to maintaining their performance.

Why Premium Shoes Deserve Better Treatment

Shoes like Atoms are engineered with specific materials and construction methods to provide optimal comfort and support. They feature:

• Quarter-size sizing for a perfect fit

• Copper-infused insoles for odor control

• Thoughtfully designed cushioning systems

• Premium materials selected for durability and comfort

Subjecting these carefully engineered components to dryer heat undermines everything that makes them special.

Proper Cleaning and Drying for Premium Footwear

Instead of risking the dryer, follow these steps:

1. Clean carefully: Follow our guide on how to clean your shoes in the washing machine or hand-clean when appropriate

2. Remove excess water: Gently press shoes between towels to remove surface moisture

3. Stuff and shape: Use shoe trees or loosely crumpled newspaper to maintain shape

4. Air dry properly: Place in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight

5. Be patient: Allow 12-24 hours for complete drying

When to Replace vs. Repair

If your shoes do get damaged—whether from improper drying or normal wear—you need to assess whether they're worth repairing. Consider replacement if:

• The sole is separating significantly

• The cushioning has completely compressed

• There's visible material breakdown or tears

• They no longer provide adequate support

For Atoms shoes, you can often extend their life by replacing the insoles when the originals wear out.

Emergency Drying Situations: What to Do

Sometimes you're in a genuine emergency—you need your shoes dry NOW, and air drying isn't fast enough. Here's how to handle it.

Same-Day Drying Strategy

If you absolutely need shoes dry within a few hours:

1. Start with absorption: Press shoes firmly between multiple dry towels to remove as much water as possible

2. Remove everything removable: Take out insoles, laces, and any inserts

3. Use the fan method: Set up the most powerful fan you have, pointing directly at the shoes

4. Add heat indirectly: Place shoes 3-4 feet from (not on) a space heater or heating vent

5. Stuff and rotate: Use newspaper or paper towels inside the shoes, replacing every 30 minutes

6. Give it 4-6 hours: This combination method usually dries shoes within this timeframe

The Hair Dryer Technique (Controlled Heat)

If you must use heat, a hair dryer gives you much more control than a dryer:

1. Remove insoles and laces completely

2. Set hair dryer to low or medium heat (never high)

3. Hold the dryer 6-8 inches from the shoe

4. Keep the dryer moving constantly—don't focus on one spot

5. Work in 5-minute intervals with cool-down periods between

6. Pay special attention to the toe box and heel areas

This method takes about 30-45 minutes of active attention but is significantly safer than machine drying.

What to Do If You've Already Damaged Shoes in the Dryer

Maybe you're reading this after the damage is done. Here's what you can try:

For separated soles:

• Specialty shoe adhesive (like Shoe Goo) can sometimes reattach components

• Take to a professional cobbler for assessment

For shrunken shoes:

• Wear them with thick socks and walk around to try to re-stretch

• Use a shoe stretcher tool

• Consider that significant shrinkage is usually permanent

For compressed cushioning:

• Unfortunately, heat-compressed foam rarely recovers

• Replace insoles to restore some comfort

• This is often a sign you need new shoes

Long-Term Shoe Care: Preventing Water Damage in the First Place

The best strategy is avoiding the need to dry shoes quickly. Here's how to keep your footwear in top condition.

Weatherproofing Your Shoes

Before your shoes get soaked, consider protecting them:

• Apply a waterproofing spray suitable for your shoe material

• Reapply every few months or after cleaning

• For leather shoes, use a protective cream or conditioner

• Consider having multiple pairs to rotate, allowing each pair to fully dry between wears

Smart Wearing Habits

You can minimize wet shoe situations with these practices:

• Check weather forecasts and choose appropriate footwear

• Keep a spare pair at work or in your car

• Use waterproof shoe covers on rainy days

• Allow shoes to dry completely between wears—wearing damp shoes accelerates breakdown

Storage and Maintenance

Proper storage prevents moisture issues:

• Store shoes in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area

• Use cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and maintain shape

• Never store shoes while damp

• Rotate your shoes regularly rather than wearing the same pair daily

If you're someone who's on your feet all day, having multiple pairs isn't a luxury—it's essential for shoe longevity and foot health.

Environmental and Practical Considerations

Beyond just shoe damage, there are other reasons to reconsider putting shoes in the dryer.

Dryer Wear and Tear

Putting shoes in your dryer doesn't just risk your footwear—it can also damage your appliance:

• The tumbling creates loud banging and thumping that can damage the drum

• Heavy shoes can knock internal components loose

• The dryer has to work harder, using more energy

• Potential damage to the dryer door or seal

Energy Consumption

Running a dryer for even 30 minutes uses significant energy—roughly 0.5-0.75 kWh, costing around $0.08-$0.12 per cycle. Over time, this adds up, especially compared to air drying which costs nothing.

Noise Disruption

If you've ever heard shoes tumbling in a dryer, you know it's incredibly loud. This isn't just annoying—it's a sign that something is taking a beating (both your shoes and your dryer).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put Converse in the dryer?

While Converse are relatively durable canvas shoes, we still recommend air drying them. If you must use a dryer, use the absolute lowest heat setting for no more than 20 minutes, and stuff them with towels first.

Can you put running shoes in the dryer?

No. Running shoes have sophisticated cushioning systems and adhesives that will degrade with dryer heat. Always air dry running shoes to preserve their performance characteristics.

Can you put Vans in the dryer?

Like Converse, Vans are canvas shoes that can technically withstand low-heat drying, but it's not recommended. The rubber sidewalls and sole can separate, and the canvas may shrink.

How do you dry shoes overnight?

Use the fan method or newspaper method for overnight drying. Remove insoles and laces, stuff shoes with crumpled newspaper, and place them in front of a fan. Replace the newspaper before bed and again in the morning. Most shoes will be dry or nearly dry within 8-10 hours.

Can you put white shoes in the dryer after washing?

The color doesn't change the recommendation—white shoes face the same risks as any other color. For white sneakers, air drying is especially important to prevent yellowing that can occur with heat exposure.

Will shoes shrink in the dryer?

Yes, most shoes will shrink at least slightly in the dryer, especially if they contain natural materials like cotton or leather. Even synthetic materials can shrink unevenly, changing the fit of your shoes.

Final Recommendations: Making the Right Choice for Your Shoes

After exploring all the facts, here's our bottom-line guidance for shoe owners.

The Hierarchy of Drying Methods

From best to worst:

1. Air drying with fan (4-6 hours, no damage risk)

2. Air drying naturally (12-24 hours, no damage risk)

3. Hair dryer on low (30-45 minutes, low damage risk with proper technique)

4. Boot dryer device (2-4 hours, minimal damage risk)

5. Dryer on no-heat/air setting with precautions (20-30 minutes, moderate damage risk)

6. Dryer on low heat (20 minutes maximum, high damage risk)

7. Dryer on medium/high heat (Never recommended, almost certain damage)

When Speed Matters vs. When It Doesn't

We understand that sometimes you need your shoes dry quickly. Ask yourself:

• Is this truly an emergency, or just inconvenient to wait?

• Do I have other shoes I could wear instead?

• Am I willing to risk permanently damaging these shoes?

• Would the cost of replacement be acceptable?

If you can wait even a few hours, the fan method gives you speed without risk. If you have a versatile shoe collection including multiple comfortable everyday options, you'll rarely face a true shoe-drying emergency.

Investing in Long-Lasting Footwear

Quality shoes like Atoms are designed to last, but only if you care for them properly. When you invest in comfortable, well-made footwear, you're making a commitment to:

• Your foot health and comfort

• Sustainable consumption (fewer replacements needed)

• Better value over time

Protecting that investment means taking a few extra hours to dry your shoes properly rather than risking damage for convenience.

Take Care of Your Shoes, and They'll Take Care of Your Feet

The question "can you put shoes in the dryer?" has a clear answer: while it's technically possible, it's rarely worth the risk. The convenience of fast drying doesn't outweigh the potential for permanent damage to shoes you rely on daily.

Whether you're caring for everyday walking shoes, athletic footwear, or special limited edition sneakers, proper drying techniques ensure they'll continue providing the comfort and support you need.

Take the time to air dry your shoes properly. Your feet—and your wallet—will thank you.

Need new shoes that are worth caring for properly? Explore Atoms' collection of comfortable, durable footwear designed for all-day wear, available in quarter sizes for the perfect fit. With proper care, they'll be your go-to shoes for years to come.