Can You Put Converse Shoes in the Dryer Without Ruining Them?

Converse sneakers are classics. They are light, easy to style, and surprisingly durable—until heat gets involved. If you are tempted to toss a wet pair into the dryer to speed things up, you are not alone. The big question is simple: Can you put Converse shoes in the dryer without ruining them? The short answer is that it is risky. With the right precautions, a quick low-heat or no-heat tumble may be possible, but air drying is still the safest way to protect the canvas, glue, rubber, and shape. This guide explains what actually gets damaged, when a short dryer cycle can be acceptable, and the best step-by-step methods to dry Converse properly without shrinking, yellowing, or warping your favorite pair.

Can You Put Converse in the Dryer?

Technically, yes, you can put Converse in a dryer, but it is not recommended by the manufacturer. Heat can soften glue, warp rubber, cause canvas to shrink, and make dyes bleed. If you do try it, use no heat or the lowest heat setting, protect the shoes in a bag, and limit time to a short cycle. However, the safest method remains air drying with airflow.

Think of the dryer as a last resort for a modern pair you can afford to experiment with, not a first choice for a cherished or limited-edition pair. If the shoes are older, have cracking rubber, or were customized, do not tumble dry them at all.

What Gets Ruined in the Dryer?

Heat vs. Adhesives and Seams

Converse rely on adhesives to bond the canvas upper to the rubber foxing and sole layers. High or even medium heat can soften these glues. Once softened, bond lines may creep or separate when they cool. Re-gluing cleanly is difficult at home, and separation often starts small, then grows with wear.

Stitching can also tighten or distort if the canvas shrinks under heat. That mismatch puts pressure on stress points like toe bends and midfoot seams, leading to fraying and premature failures.

Canvas Shrink and Dye Bleed

Canvas is cotton-based on most classic Converse models. Cotton fibers contract with heat and rapid drying, which can tighten the upper, change fit, and exaggerate creases. If your pair already fits snugly, even a small shrink can make them uncomfortable.

Dark or bright canvas can bleed dye in the heat and humidity of a dryer. That bleed can transfer to laces, linings, the rubber foxing, or anything else in the drum. White and light-colored canvas can also yellow when exposed to heat, detergent residue, and minerals from water.

Rubber Foxing and Outsole Warping

The signature white foxing tape and the vulcanized outsole are tough, but sustained heat can distort shape. Warped rubber may lift at edges or ripple, especially around the toe bumper and heel. Once warped, the clean line that makes Converse look sharp is hard to restore.

The rubber’s surface can also dull or develop micro-cracks over time if repeatedly heated and cooled. While a single gentle cycle may not destroy them, repeated drying is a real risk for the rubber aesthetics and integrity.

Eyelets, Laces, and Linings

Metal eyelets can heat up and press into damp canvas, leaving imprints or faint rings. Laces can stiffen or shrink. Foam or fabric liners may curl at edges, and adhesives inside the heel counter can loosen, causing squeaks or a sloppy heel feel.

Platform, Lifted Soles, and Specialty Models

Platform Converse and chunky variants use layered materials and extra adhesives. These are more likely to warp or separate in the dryer. If your pair has extra height, thicker midsoles, or special textures, avoid machine drying and let them air dry thoroughly.

When a Dryer Might Be Okay

A Practical Risk-Scoring Checklist

Before using a dryer, score your situation. If your answers trend toward low risk, a short, cool tumble may be acceptable. If they trend high, stick to air drying. Are the shoes new, standard canvas, and not a limited edition? Low risk. Are they older, platform, or customized? High risk. Do you have a dryer with Air Fluff or low heat and a delicate cycle? Lower risk. Are you able to bag the shoes and add towels to cushion impact? Lower risk. Do you need them dry in an hour, or can you wait overnight with a fan? If you can wait, skip the dryer.

If you proceed, use the absolute lowest heat or air-only setting, bag the shoes, add soft towels, and run a very short cycle to remove surface moisture, then finish with room air.

Time and Temperature Limits

Use Air Fluff or the lowest heat for 10 to 15 minutes, max. Check every 5 minutes. The goal is to remove surface dampness, not to bake the shoes fully dry. Finish on a shoe tree or with paper stuffing in a ventilated space for several hours.

The Safest Way to Dry Converse: Step by Step

After-Wash Prep and Water Removal

Remove laces and insoles. This speeds drying and prevents distortion at the eyelets. Blot excess water with a clean, absorbent towel. Do not wring or twist the shoes; squeezing can bend the toe box and deform the foxing line. Stuff the shoes with white paper towels or unprinted packing paper. Avoid newspaper ink on light canvas. Replace the stuffing as it absorbs moisture during the first hour.

Open the tongue and loosen any stiff areas. If your pair has removable insoles, dry them flat at room temperature. Sprinkle a little baking soda under the insole after it is mostly dry to reduce odors.

Machine Drying with Maximum Protection

If you must use a dryer, place each shoe in its own mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase tied shut. Add two to four bath towels to reduce banging, which protects both the shoes and your dryer drum. Choose Air Fluff or the lowest heat setting and a delicate or gentle cycle. Start with 10 minutes, then check. If the shoes feel just damp on the surface, stop and finish with air drying. If still wet, repeat for another 5 minutes. Do not exceed 20 minutes total to avoid heat build-up.

When removing, reshape immediately. Insert fresh paper stuffing or a cedar shoe tree. Let them cool and fully dry in open air for at least 6 to 12 hours. Do not store them while even slightly damp.

Air-Dry Method (Best for Longevity)

Place the shoes in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sun or a radiator. Sunlight can yellow white canvas and hard heat can warp rubber. Use a small fan to move air through the shoes. Point the airflow across, not directly into, the shoes for steady circulation. Refresh stuffing after the first hour, then again if the paper becomes damp.

Typical dry time is 12 to 24 hours. High humidity may extend this to 36 hours. The fan dramatically reduces drying time and helps prevent musty odors.

Faster Air-Drying Tricks

Use microfiber cloths as temporary stuffing to quickly wick moisture for the first 30 to 60 minutes, then switch to paper. Place the shoes near, but not on, a dehumidifier. If you have a bathroom exhaust fan, run it with the door open and shoes nearby to reduce ambient humidity. Rotate the shoes every hour to expose all sides to airflow.

Drying Outdoors Safely

Shade and breeze are perfect; direct midday sun is not. Elevated on a mesh rack or cooling rack helps air reach the soles. Bring them inside at night to avoid dew. If you live in a dusty area, cover loosely with a breathable mesh or perforated bag so airflow continues but dirt stays off.

How to Clean Converse Properly Before Drying

Quick Clean for Light Dirt

Remove surface dust with a soft brush or clean dry cloth. Mix a small bowl of lukewarm water with a drop of mild liquid dish soap. Dampen a cloth and wipe canvas and rubber. Avoid soaking. Rinse the cloth and wipe again with clean water to remove soap. Blot with a towel and proceed to drying steps.

Deep Clean for Heavier Stains

Remove laces and insoles. Mix lukewarm water with a small amount of gentle laundry detergent. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to work the solution into stained areas. Focus on heel, toe, and eyelet rows, where dirt accumulates. Rinse by wiping with a damp cloth until suds are gone. Do not submerge the entire shoe unless you are prepared for a longer dry time and potential shrink—spot cleaning is safer. For stubborn stains on white canvas, use a paste of baking soda and water, apply with a soft brush, let sit for 10 minutes, then wipe clean.

Cleaning the White Rubber Foxing

Use a magic eraser or a paste of baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. Rub gently along the rubber edge and toe cap. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. For yellowing, a small amount of non-gel whitening toothpaste can help. Apply, scrub lightly, and wipe off thoroughly. Avoid strong bleach on rubber; it can cause a chalky finish and make future yellowing worse.

Odor Removal Before Drying

Sprinkle a teaspoon of baking soda inside each shoe and let sit for an hour, then shake out. For persistent odors, place a dry used tea bag or a small sachet of activated charcoal inside overnight. Ensuring the shoes are fully dry after cleaning is the most important odor-prevention step.

Mildew or Mold Spots

Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Wipe the area with a cloth lightly dampened with white vinegar, then follow with mild soap and water. Rinse with a clean damp cloth. Dry with a fan immediately. Do not use the dryer for mold-affected shoes until you are sure the odor is gone, or the warm drum may bake in the smell.

Special Materials and Models

Leather Converse

Leather uppers do not like heat. The dryer can cause stiffness, cracking, and separation at the foxing. Clean leather with a damp cloth and a tiny amount of mild soap, then air dry away from heat. After drying, apply a small amount of leather conditioner and buff. Never tumble dry leather Converse.

Suede or Nubuck

Keep suede and nubuck far from water and heat. Use a suede brush to lift dirt and a suede eraser for marks. If they get wet, stuff with paper and air dry in shade with a fan. Heat will harden and darken suede. Avoid the dryer completely for these materials.

Platforms, Run Star Hike, Lifted Soles

Extra layers mean extra glue. These styles are especially vulnerable to delamination in the dryer. Always air dry. If the soles are thick, dry time is longer; prioritize airflow from multiple sides. Elevate on a rack so air reaches the outsole channels.

Custom Prints, Patches, and Limited Editions

Custom ink, heat-applied patches, glitter, or reflective details can bubble, peel, or haze with dryer heat. If your pair has unique finishes or sentimental value, do not risk it. Stick with careful spot cleaning and patient air drying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not use high or medium heat. Even one hot cycle can shrink canvas and soften glue. Do not tumble with nothing else in the drum. The shoes will slam the sides, denting rubber and scuffing canvas. Cushion with towels. Do not leave laces and insoles in during drying. They trap moisture and can deform eyelet areas. Do not dry on a radiator or heater. Direct heat causes warping and yellowing. Do not oversoak during cleaning. Excess water lengthens dry time and increases the chance of dye bleed.

Troubleshooting After a Dryer Cycle

Misshapen Toe Box or Sidewalls

While the shoes are still warm but not hot, insert a shoe tree or tightly packed paper to push the walls back to shape. Leave for 12 hours. Gently massage creases with your fingers. For stubborn toe dents, dampen the canvas slightly with a misting spray, reshape, and air dry with a fan.

New Squeaks or Loose Heel Feel

Squeaks often mean inner adhesives loosened. Remove the insole, dust a small pinch of baking soda under it, and reinsert. This can reduce friction squeaks. If the heel counter feels sloppy, give the shoes a full 24-hour air dry; some adhesives re-set as moisture leaves. Persistent separation needs a professional repair or careful use of a flexible shoe adhesive applied sparingly.

Yellowing or Dye Transfer

For white rubber yellowing, use a magic eraser or a mild whitening toothpaste and rinse well. For light canvas yellowing, mix a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide at low strength, dab on, wait 10 minutes, and wipe clean, then air dry in shade. For dye transfer to laces, hand wash laces with mild detergent and soak in an oxygen-based whitener if safe for color. Avoid bleach, which can damage fibers and cause further yellowing.

Stiff Laces and Crunchy Canvas

Soak laces in warm water with a few drops of fabric softener, rinse, and air dry. For stiff canvas, mist lightly with water, flex the shoe by hand, and wear with socks around the house for an hour to soften. Do not re-dry with heat.

How to Store and Prevent Odors After Drying

Always store Converse fully dry. Moisture left inside leads to odor, mildew, and breakdown of adhesives. Use cedar shoe trees or paper stuffing occasionally to help shoes keep shape during storage. Keep them in a breathable shoe bag or on an open shelf, not a sealed plastic bin, unless fully dry and paired with a small desiccant pack.

To keep fresh between wears, sprinkle a pinch of baking soda inside and tap it out before use, or drop in reusable charcoal deodorizers overnight. Let the shoes breathe after wear; do not toss sweaty sneakers directly into a closed gym bag for days.

FAQ: Quick Answers for Newbies

Should I remove laces and insoles before drying?

Yes. They dry faster separately, reduce deformation at eyelets, and prevent trapped moisture that can cause odor or separation.

How long does air drying take?

With a fan, plan on 12 to 24 hours. In humid rooms, allow up to 36 hours. Replace stuffing during the first hour for faster wicking.

Can I wash Converse in a washing machine?

It is possible but not ideal. Hand washing is safer. If you machine wash, use cold water, a gentle cycle, a mesh bag, and towels for cushioning, then air dry only. Avoid the dryer after a full wash if the shoes are heavily saturated.

Are dryer sheets safe?

Dryer sheets add fragrance but do not help drying and can leave residue. Skip them, especially for canvas and rubber, which can absorb scents and films.

What about special shoe laundry bags?

Mesh shoe bags are helpful to reduce scuffing. A pillowcase tied securely works in a pinch. Always add towels to cushion impacts.

Can I stuff with newspaper?

Unprinted or colorfast paper is better. Newspaper ink can transfer to wet canvas, especially on light colors. If you only have newspaper, use it briefly for initial wicking and replace quickly with white paper towels.

Is a hair dryer okay?

Avoid direct hot air. If you use a hair dryer, choose cool or the lowest setting and hold it far enough away to circulate air, not heat. A fan is still safer and more even.

Can I set the shoes on a radiator or heater?

No. Direct heat can warp rubber, yellow canvas, and soften glue. Use shade, airflow, and patience.

What about the spin cycle on a washer?

A gentle spin can remove excess water if used carefully in a mesh bag with towels. However, it still stresses the shoes. Hand blotting with towels is gentler and usually enough.

Will a dehumidifier help?

Yes. Place the shoes in the same room as a running dehumidifier to reduce drying time and prevent musty smells.

Energy and Eco Considerations

Air drying uses no electricity and is kinder to shoe materials. A dryer cycle, even short, uses energy and shortens shoe life over time. Using a fan and dehumidifier is more energy-efficient than running a heated dryer and reduces the risk of damage. Air drying also avoids noise and the impact thumping shoes have on your machine’s drum and bearings.

A Simple Routine for Long-Lasting Converse

Clean, Shape, Dry, Protect

Wipe dirt promptly so it does not set. Stuff shoes while drying to maintain shape. Use shade, airflow, and time. Once dry, consider a fabric protector spray for canvas and a rubber conditioner or simple wipe-down routine for foxing. Store dry, with occasional deodorizing sachets, and rotate pairs to give materials a rest between wears.

Set Up a Drying Station at Home

Create a small area for shoe care with a fan, hooks or a rack, paper towels, a microfiber cloth, a soft brush, mesh bags, and baking soda. Having supplies ready prevents rushed choices like tossing wet shoes into high heat. A routine station makes maintenance easy and helps your Converse look crisp longer.

Conclusion

Can you put Converse shoes in the dryer without ruining them? Sometimes, for a short time, on the lowest or no-heat setting, with proper protection—and even then, there is real risk. Heat can shrink canvas, loosen glue, warp rubber, and cause yellowing and dye bleed. The safest path is straightforward: clean gently, remove laces and insoles, blot water, stuff to hold shape, and air dry with steady airflow. If you must use the dryer, limit it to a brief, cool tumble inside a bag with towels and finish with air drying. With a bit of patience and the right setup, you will keep your Converse smelling fresh, looking sharp, and fitting comfortably for far longer.