Leather shoes are a timeless fashion essential because they strike the perfect balance between style and comfort. However, if your leather footwear has gotten soaked and you’re running short on time, you might have thought about microwaving them. This might seem like an easy solution, but is it really effective?
Although microwaving leather shoes to dry them may appear like a quick solution, it can lead to permanent damage. This post explains why this method is not recommended and proposes alternative techniques that will help you dry your footwear quickly without risking their durability.
7 Reasons Why You Must Not Dry Leather Shoes In Microwave
1. Heat Can Damage Glue
Leather shoes and microwaves don’t mix well. The heat from the microwave causes the glue that holds the shoes together to weaken, making them more likely to fall apart.
Plus, burning glue creates a nasty odour and can damage your favorite kicks. To keep your leather shoes in great condition, it’s best to avoid nuking them and opt for other cleaning methods instead.
2. High Heat Can Damage Leather
Putting your leather shoes in the microwave can damage them severely. The high heat produces steam and water vapour that affects the fibers of the leather, causing brittleness and stiffness once cool.
Furthermore, discolouration and an unpleasant smell may follow. For these reasons, it is a poor decision to use a microwave for cleaning or drying your leather footwear.
3. It Might Become Dry, Crack, or Even Peel
Leather shoe lovers, beware! Don’t even think about putting them in the microwave no matter how convenient it may seem. Remember, leather shoes can dry out, crack and even peel when exposed to intense heat.
And if they are authentic leather, this process of drying out could take years before you notice any visible damage on your beloved pair.
But alas for faux leather shoe enthusiasts, they won’t be so lucky as their shoes will lose their shape and get melted like ice cream under too much heat.
4. The Shoe’s Overall Design Can Be Ruined
Putting leather shoes in the microwave could easily damage their overall design. This is because the heat can make the leather soft and malleable, making it vulnerable to warping or bending.
The leather may also stretch or shrink unevenly, resulting in an unattractive design that can be tough to fix. It is best to avoid using the microwave at all costs when it comes to drying your beloved leather shoes.
5. The Leather Shoes Will Change Colour
When it comes to natural dyes, you don’t want the heat from the microwave causing any bleeding that could ruin your leather shoe’s appearance.
And watch out for patent leather too–extremes in temperature can cause discoloration. But fear not! If you store them in a dry area away from direct sunlight, you can keep your leather shoes looking fabulous for ages.
6. The Leather Shoes’ Smell Will Change
If you’re considering microwaving your leather shoes to expedite the drying process, think twice – it’s not worth ruining their colour and natural scent. Leather shoes have a unique odour due to the tanning method, but when exposed to a microwave’s high temperature, this aroma is altered.
The heat causes natural oils in the leather to evaporate quickly, leading to an unpleasant smell that no amount of air freshener can mask. So before making this irreversible mistake, consider alternatives for drying your kicks!
7. The Microwave Will Melt Faux Leather Shoes
If you own faux leather shoes, it’s important to avoid microwaving them. Heating up faux leather can cause plastics and synthetic materials to melt, releasing harmful chemicals into the air that can be unpleasant for anyone around. To prevent any potential risks, it’s best to steer clear of microwaving faux leather shoes altogether.
Alternatives To Drying Leather Shoes Quickly
1. Newspaper Method
Leather shoes can be dried safely and easily by using newspaper. First, gently clean the shoes with a soft cloth and suitable leather cleaner to remove any dirt and soap.
Next, stuff them with crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture and leave them to dry for a few hours.
Remove the newspaper afterward and wipe off any remaining dirt or soap with a damp paper towel. This way of drying is friendly to your shoes while being practical and budget-friendly.
2. Talcum powder
Leather shoe owners looking to keep their footwear in top condition should consider using talcum powder. This powdery substance effectively soaks up oil and removes stains from the surface of the shoes. With its oil-absorbing capabilities, tal
3. Uncooked Rice Method
Trying to revive your favorite leather shoes? Uncooked rice could be the ultimate solution for you! This easy hack not only saves money but takes up minimal effort. All you need is a sock filled with uncooked rice, placed inside the moist shoe.
The rice will act as a sponge, removing all unwanted moisture and leaving your shoes looking great again. Leave it overnight, wake up to dry and clean leathers in the morning!
4. Using a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is a wise choice to keep leather shoes in top condition. By decreasing the odds of mould and mildew buildup, you can ensure that your favourite shoes remain comfortable and look their best for longer. Begin by wiping them down with soap and a damp cloth to get rid of any surplus moisture.
After your shoes have dried, it’s key to store them away from moisture. Tuck them in a closet or other dry space, and consider placing a dehumidifier nearby. This final step ensures a fully thorough drying process without causing damage.
5. Hair Dryer Method
If you want to keep your leather shoes looking great and lasting longer, using a hair dryer is a smart move. However, be mindful of the heat setting and choose medium temperature to avoid overheating the delicate material. By following this tip, you can extend the life of your beloved kicks with ease.
Once excess moisture is removed, wrap a dryer sheet around your comb or brush and use it to gently brush the leather. This will prevent static and cracking.
Finally, help your leather shoes retain their shape and smooth out wrinkles with a leather stretching spray. Follow these tips for perfectly polished shoes that look good as new!
Bottom Line
The microwave is your go-to for quick heating, but don’t let it anywhere near your leather shoes. The heat can damage the glue holding them together and cause the leather to dry out and crack.
On top of that, you risk altering their design or color! When it comes to drying leather shoes fast, a hairdryer or towel are much safer alternatives. Your kicks will thank you!
Frequently Asked Question
Many people are curious about whether microwaving leather shoes is safe. To address these concerns, here are some frequently asked questions regarding the topic.
Is It Safe to Microwave Leather Shoes?
Leather shoes and microwaves are not a safe combination. The glue that binds the shoe together can be destroyed by the heat, and the leather can be damaged as well. It is not recommended to put your beloved shoes in the microwave oven.
Can Microwaving Leather Shoes Dry Them Quickly?
Microwaving leather shoes is not a quick way to dry them. On the contrary, it can lead to damage and render them unusable. It’s best to avoid microwaving leather
Will Microwaving Leather Shoes Kill the Bacteria on Them?
Microwaving cannot eliminate the bacteria on leather shoes. Therefore, it is recommended to disinfect the shoes before using them for safety purposes.
Can I Microwave My Faux Leather Shoes?
Nope, sorry, you shouldn’t pop faux leather shoes in the microwave as it might just make them melt.
How Can I Dry My Leather Shoes Quickly?
To dry leather shoes quickly, simply ensure air is circulating around them. Either let the shoes rest in a well-ventilated area or position them near a fan for swift results.
Will Microwaving My Leather Shoes Shrink Them?
Sorry, microwaving your leather shoes won’t make them smaller, although it could distort their shape or discolor them.
