Hokas are a popular athletic shoe known for their thick soles and comfort. As with any shoe that is worn frequently, Hokas can get quite dirty and need to be cleaned regularly to keep them in top shape. However, washing Hokas requires some special care and consideration due to their unique design. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on the best practices for effectively washing your Hokas.
Assessing When Your Hokas Need Washing
- Look for visible dirt or stains
- Smell shoes for unpleasant odors
- Wash after repeated wear without washing
- Wash less frequently if only worn occasionally
Materials Needed
- Mild laundry detergent (avoid harsh chemicals)
- Soft brush or washcloth (nothing abrasive)
- Bucket or sink for handwashing
- Mesh bag for machine washing
- Old towels
- Stuffing (see Stuffing section)
The Handwashing Method
Handwashing Allows Thorough Cleaning with Care
- Fill bucket or sink with cool water and small amount of mild detergent
- Use brush or cloth to gently scrub entire outer surface of shoes
- Pay close attention to soles and any visibly dirty areas
- Drain dirty water, refill bucket with clean cool water
- Rinse shoes thoroughly with water and towels
Drying Hokas After Handwashing
- Stuff shoes with towels to absorb moisture and hold shape
- Replace towels whenever damp
- Allow to fully air dry, avoid direct heat
- Repeat stuffing and drying until Hokas are completely dry
- Remove stuffing and enjoy revived Hokas
Machine Washing a Delicate Process Requiring Caution
Only Machine Wash When Necessary
- Place Hokas in mesh bag and zip securely
- Wash small load on gentle cycle in cold water
- Use mild detergent and second rinse cycle
- Do not wash with other shoes or fabrics
Follow With Extra Care While Drying
- Always air dry, never machine dry
- Stuff with towels immediately after washing
- Allow longer drying time than handwashing
- Check frequently until fully dry
The Art of Stuffing Your Hokas
Proper Stuffing is Vital for Structural Support
Best Materials for Stuffing
- Rolled bath towels or washcloths
- Plastic shopping bags
- Rolled socks (clean!)
- Crumpled paper
How to Stuff
- Insert stuffing material firmly into toe box and midsole area
- Fill interior completely while maintaining shape
- Replace stuffing if it becomes saturated
Benefits of Proper Stuffing
- Allows Hokas to hold structure and thickness
- Absorbs interior moisture
- Prevents shrinkage
- Retains comfort and performance
Avoiding Pitfalls When Washing Hokas
Steer Clear of These Detrimental Mistakes
Machine Drying
- Excessive heat damages Hokas
- Causes cracking and loss of cushioning
Bleach or Other Harsh Chemicals
- Weakens durable fabrics
- Fades colors
- Can disintegrate glue and stitching
Insufficient Drying
- Trapped moisture breeds bacteria
- Creates unpleasant odors
- Promotes breakdown of materials
Hot Water Washing
- Heat can melt glues and warp shape
- Risks damage to supportive components
Aggressive Brushing
- Can remove prints and decorative accents
- Creates holes or tears if fabrics are snagged
Recommendations for Freshening Between Washes
Refresh Stale Smelling Shoes Anytime
Air Drying
- Removes built-up moisture
- Helps dissipate odors
Baking Soda Sprinkling
- Neutralizes unpleasant smells
- Allows odors to absorb
Shoe Deodorizers
- Designed specifically for footwear
- Freshens shoes between washes
Sanitizing Wipes
- Cleans insoles and interior
- Kills bacteria responsible for odors
When to Retire Your Beloved Pair
Knowing When It’s Time to Replace Your Washed Out Hokas
- Soles or tread appearance cracked or deformed
- Major structural damage or tears
- Cushioning and support severely depleted
- Cannot eliminate persistent odors or bacteria
- Consistent discomfort when wearing
Finding the Same Shoe Again
- Hokas frequently update models yearly
- Check manufacturer website for current versions
- Compare new models to find closest match
Getting the Most Life out of Your Hokas
Proper Care From Day One Extends Lifespan
- Use appropriate shoes for each activity
- Allow to fully dry between uses
- Replace insoles every 6-12 months
- Wash regularly using proper method
- Store with stuffing to retain shape
When to Replace Hokas
- After 300-500 miles of wear
- When cushioning feels compressed
- If chronic pain or discomfort occurs
Hoka Care Prolongs Enjoyment
Caring properly for Hokas enables you to get the most out of your investment in top quality athletic footwear. By learning the ideal way to clean your shoes for the materials and design, you can keep them looking and smelling fresh. Make sure to fully dry Hokas after every wash and use proper stuffing techniques to maintain structure and cushioning.
Avoid shortcuts that could damage fabrics or glues. Follow this complete guide of best practices regularly to safely wash Hokas and extend their lifespan for many miles on the roads or trails ahead. Happy running in your revived, clean kicks!
FAQs
Are Hokas machine washable?
No, Hokas should not be machine washed. The heat and agitation of a washing machine can damage the materials and construction of the shoes
Can I put my Hokas in the washing machine on a gentle cycle?
Even the gentle cycle of a washing machine can be too rough for Hokas and may cause the glue and materials to break down faster. It’s best to always hand wash them.
What is the best way to clean my Hokas?
The recommended way to clean Hokas is by hand washing them. Use a small amount of gentle detergent diluted in cold to lukewarm water. Use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub the soles and sides. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
How often should I wash my Hokas?
Wash them as needed after workouts when they are visibly dirty or smelly. For casual everyday use, washing them every couple of weeks is sufficient unless they get dirty. Over-washing may cause the materials to break down faster.
Can I put my Hokas in the dryer?
Do not put Hokas in the dryer. Allow them to fully air dry out of direct sunlight before wearing again. The heat of the dryer can damage Hokas.
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