How to Dry Shoes Upside Down the Right Way

Drying your shoes upside down is a simple yet highly effective method to speed up drying, prevent odors, and protect your shoes from long-term damage caused by moisture.

Knowing how to properly dry your shoes is essential for extending their lifespan, preventing odors, and keeping your footwear comfortable. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should dry your shoes upside down (as opposed to leaving them on their soles or using a heat source), you’re not alone. Here’s a comprehensive guide, backed by expert sources and practical tips, to help you get it right every time.

Why Drying Shoes Correctly Matters

Allowing your shoes to dry thoroughly after they get wet isn’t just about comfort; it also prevents mold and bacteria growth, stops unpleasant smells, and maintains the structural support of your shoes. Improper drying can cause your shoes to warp, shrink, or break down much sooner than they should, making it even more important to use the right technique.

Should You Dry Shoes Upside Down?

Many shoe care experts and runners recommend drying your shoes upside down, or at least in a position that maximizes interior airflow. When shoes are placed flat on their soles, moisture can become trapped in the cushioning, lining, and insole. However, if you prop your shoes against a wall, place them on a rack with the soles facing up, or lean them so the opening is fully exposed, air can flow freely, speeding up the drying process.

• AtoZrunning’s guide on shoe drying explains that upside-down or sideways drying allows gravity to help draw water out of the interior, reducing the likelihood of odor or mildew.

• Shoegazing highlights the importance of maximizing airflow, especially for leather or suede, where prolonged moisture can soften and damage the material.

Step-by-Step: How to Dry Shoes Upside Down

1. Remove Insoles and Laces
   Take out the insoles and laces from each shoe. This exposes more internal surface area and allows separate drying of all components.

2. Open the Shoe Fully
   Pull the tongue out and open the shoe as much as possible. This maximizes the area exposed to air.

3. Prop Shoes Upside Down or Sideways
   Place your shoes upside down on a shoe rack, against a wall, or hang them by the laces so the opening faces down or sideways. Anything that increases internal airflow will help.

4. Use a Fan or Vent
   For fastest results, put your shoes near a fan or a vent. Avoid direct heat, such as radiators or stoves, which can warp the shoes or melt adhesives.

5. Stuff with Newspaper or Towels
   For especially wet shoes, stuff the interior with newspaper or paper towels. Replace the stuffing as it becomes damp to draw out the remaining moisture.

6. Let Dry Thoroughly
   Leave your shoes in a ventilated, dry area, ideally overnight or as long as needed until no moisture remains.

What to Avoid When Drying Shoes

• Direct Heat:
  Never place your shoes in a tumble dryer, on a radiator, or in direct sunlight. Excessive heat can ruin shoe glue, shrink fabric, and distort the shape (Nike’s best practices).

• Leaving Shoes Wet:
  Letting shoes sit while wet fosters bacteria and mildew, which cause persistent odors and can lead to deterioration of both upper and sole.

Tips for Different Shoe Materials

• For leather and suede shoes, use extra caution. Avoid overstuffing and never place directly near heat sources, which can crack or shrink the upper.

• For athletic or running shoes, always remove insoles and go upside down, making sure to avoid intense heat to preserve sole cushioning.

Upside Down vs. Other Methods

While you can also dry shoes on their side, upside down is often recommended because it permits maximum drainage and airflow. Some resources, including AtoZrunning and Reddit running communities, confirm that this method results in faster drying and less risk of lingering dampness.