Silence the Clang: The Ultimate Guide to Stop Shoes from Banging in the Dryer
That rhythmic *thump-thump-thump* of shoes banging around in the dryer. It’s a sound that can drive you mad, especially if you live in an apartment or have sensitive ears. Beyond the annoyance, that relentless banging can also damage both your shoes and your dryer. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to minimize or completely eliminate this noisy problem. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods, providing detailed steps and tips to keep your shoes—and your sanity—intact.
Why Do Shoes Bang in the Dryer?
Before diving into solutions, understanding the cause of the problem is crucial. Shoes bang in the dryer primarily due to the following reasons:
* **Hard Materials:** Shoes, especially those with hard soles or metal eyelets, are naturally noisy when they repeatedly collide with the dryer drum.
* **Uneven Weight Distribution:** A single pair of shoes, or even multiple pairs with uneven weight, can cause the dryer to become unbalanced. This imbalance leads to more forceful banging.
* **Dryer Drum Design:** The internal design of the dryer drum, including the baffles (the fins inside), can exacerbate the noise as shoes repeatedly hit them.
* **Centrifugal Force:** As the dryer spins, centrifugal force throws the shoes against the drum walls, increasing the impact and, consequently, the noise.
Methods to Stop Shoes from Banging in the Dryer
Here are several methods to prevent your shoes from banging in the dryer, ranging from simple hacks to more elaborate solutions:
1. The Towel Method
This is a straightforward and widely used method that involves surrounding your shoes with soft towels to cushion the impact.
**Materials Needed:**
* Several large towels (bath towels or similar)
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Towels:** Take two or three large towels, depending on the size of your shoes and dryer.
2. **Wrap the Shoes:** Wrap each shoe individually in a towel, ensuring that the entire shoe is covered. The towel should act as a buffer between the shoe and the dryer drum.
3. **Secure the Towels (Optional):** You can use rubber bands or safety pins to secure the towels around the shoes, preventing them from unwrapping during the drying cycle. Be cautious not to damage the shoes or towels.
4. **Place in Dryer:** Put the wrapped shoes into the dryer.
5. **Dry on Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting. High heat can damage certain types of shoes and may also cause the towels to become excessively hot.
6. **Monitor the Dryer:** Check the dryer periodically to ensure that the towels remain in place and that the shoes are drying properly. Readjust if necessary.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Use thicker towels for better cushioning.
* Avoid overloading the dryer. Adding too many items can reduce the effectiveness of the towels.
* This method works best for lightweight shoes like sneakers or canvas shoes. Heavier shoes may still cause some noise.
* Be careful using this method on shoes that have metal parts that can overheat.
2. The Laundry Bag Method
Using a mesh laundry bag can contain the shoes and minimize their movement within the dryer, thus reducing the banging.
**Materials Needed:**
* Mesh laundry bag (large and sturdy)
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Laundry Bag:** Ensure the laundry bag is clean and free of any debris. A sturdy mesh bag is preferable to prevent tearing.
2. **Place Shoes in Bag:** Put both shoes into the laundry bag. If the bag is large enough, you can add a small towel for extra cushioning.
3. **Secure the Bag:** Close the laundry bag tightly. Some bags have zippers or drawstrings; make sure they are properly fastened.
4. **Place in Dryer:** Put the laundry bag containing the shoes into the dryer.
5. **Dry on Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting to prevent damage to the shoes or the bag.
6. **Monitor the Dryer:** Listen for any excessive noise. If the banging is still significant, you may need to try a different method or add more cushioning.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Use a high-quality mesh laundry bag that can withstand the dryer’s tumbling action.
* Do not overload the bag. Overcrowding can reduce the effectiveness of the bag and potentially damage it.
* This method is particularly useful for delicate shoes that need extra protection.
3. The Dryer Rack Method
Many dryers come with a drying rack specifically designed for drying shoes and delicate items without tumbling. This method completely eliminates the banging issue.
**Materials Needed:**
* Dryer with a drying rack
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Install the Drying Rack:** Place the drying rack inside the dryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves inserting the rack into designated slots within the drum.
2. **Position the Shoes:** Place the shoes on the drying rack, making sure they are evenly distributed. Avoid overcrowding the rack to ensure proper airflow.
3. **Set Dryer to Air Dry or Low Heat:** Select an air dry or low heat setting. High heat can damage shoes and is unnecessary when using a drying rack.
4. **Start the Dryer:** Turn on the dryer and let it run for the appropriate amount of time. Check periodically to ensure the shoes are drying properly.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Ensure the drying rack is properly installed to prevent it from dislodging during the drying cycle.
* This method is ideal for all types of shoes, especially delicate ones.
* Drying time may be longer compared to tumbling, but it is a gentler and quieter option.
* If your dryer doesn’t have a rack you can purchase an after market dryer rack that fits most dryers. Look for one online or at your local appliance store.
4. The Blanket Barrier Method
This method involves using a thick blanket to create a barrier between the shoes and the dryer drum, similar to the towel method but with more substantial cushioning.
**Materials Needed:**
* Thick blanket (e.g., a fleece or quilted blanket)
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Blanket:** Fold the blanket so that it provides ample cushioning. You may need to fold it multiple times depending on its thickness.
2. **Wrap the Shoes:** Wrap each shoe individually in the folded blanket, ensuring that the entire shoe is well-protected.
3. **Place in Dryer:** Put the wrapped shoes into the dryer.
4. **Dry on Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting.
5. **Monitor the Dryer:** Check the dryer periodically to make sure the blanket stays in place and the shoes dry evenly. Readjust as needed.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Use a blanket that is thick enough to provide adequate cushioning but not so thick that it overloads the dryer.
* Ensure the blanket is clean to avoid transferring dirt or odors to your shoes.
* This method is suitable for a variety of shoe types, but it may be less effective for very heavy shoes.
5. The Shoe Suspension Method (DIY Hack)
This method involves suspending the shoes inside the dryer to prevent them from making direct contact with the drum. This requires some DIY ingenuity but can be very effective.
**Materials Needed:**
* Strong string or rope
* Duct tape (optional, for reinforcement)
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the String/Rope:** Cut several lengths of strong string or rope. The length will depend on the size of your dryer and how far you want to suspend the shoes.
2. **Attach the String to the Shoes:** Tie one end of a string to each shoe, preferably through the laces or around a sturdy part of the shoe. Ensure the knot is secure.
3. **Attach the String to the Dryer:** Open the dryer door and attach the other end of the strings to the top of the dryer opening. You can tie the strings around the dryer’s frame or use duct tape to secure them. Make sure the shoes are hanging freely and not touching the drum.
4. **Adjust the Length:** Adjust the length of the strings so that the shoes are suspended in the center of the dryer without hitting the sides, top, or bottom when the dryer is running.
5. **Dry on Low Heat or Air Dry:** Set the dryer to a low heat or air dry setting. Monitor closely for any issues.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* This method requires careful setup and monitoring to ensure the shoes do not come loose and damage the dryer.
* Use strong, durable string or rope to prevent breakage.
* Ensure the strings are securely attached to both the shoes and the dryer to avoid accidents.
* This method is best suited for lightweight shoes. Do not attempt this with heavy boots or shoes.
* Continuously supervise the dryer during operation.
6. Using Dryer Balls
Dryer balls, typically made of wool or plastic, can help to separate and cushion items in the dryer, which can reduce the banging noise of shoes. While they won’t eliminate the noise completely, they can significantly dampen it.
**Materials Needed:**
* Dryer balls (wool or plastic)
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Shoes:** Place the shoes in the dryer.
2. **Add Dryer Balls:** Toss in 3-6 dryer balls with the shoes.
3. **Set Dryer to Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting to prevent damage to the shoes.
4. **Start the Dryer:** Turn on the dryer and let it run for the appropriate amount of time. Check periodically to ensure the shoes are drying properly.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Wool dryer balls are a more eco-friendly option and can also help to reduce static cling.
* Plastic dryer balls are more durable and can last longer.
* The number of dryer balls needed may vary depending on the size of the load and the type of shoes.
* This method works best when combined with other techniques, such as wrapping the shoes in towels.
7. Check and Tighten Shoe Laces
Sometimes, the shoelaces themselves can contribute to the banging noise if they are loose and flailing around. Ensuring they are properly tightened and tucked in can help minimize the noise.
**Materials Needed:**
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Tighten Laces:** Make sure the shoelaces are securely tightened.
2. **Tuck in Laces:** Tuck the ends of the laces into the shoe or tie them in a way that prevents them from hitting the dryer drum.
3. **Place in Dryer:** Put the shoes in the dryer.
4. **Dry on Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting.
5. **Monitor the Dryer:** Listen for any excessive noise. If the banging is still significant, you may need to try a different method or add more cushioning.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* This method is simple and requires no additional materials.
* It is most effective for shoes with long laces that tend to come undone easily.
* Combine this method with other techniques for better results.
8. Separate the Shoes
Instead of drying both shoes together, try drying them separately. This can help distribute the weight more evenly and reduce the force of the banging.
**Materials Needed:**
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Dry Shoes Separately:** Place only one shoe in the dryer at a time.
2. **Dry on Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting.
3. **Repeat for the Other Shoe:** Once the first shoe is dry, remove it and repeat the process for the second shoe.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* This method may take longer since you are drying each shoe individually.
* It can be more effective for heavier shoes that tend to cause more noise.
* Monitor the dryer closely to prevent overheating.
9. Invest in a Shoe Dryer
For those who frequently dry shoes, investing in a dedicated shoe dryer can be a worthwhile option. Shoe dryers are designed to gently dry shoes without causing damage or noise.
**Materials Needed:**
* Shoe dryer
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Place Shoes on Dryer:** Place the shoes on the shoe dryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. **Set Timer:** Set the timer for the appropriate drying time.
3. **Turn on Dryer:** Turn on the shoe dryer and let it run until the shoes are dry.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Shoe dryers come in various sizes and designs, so choose one that meets your needs.
* They are generally more energy-efficient and gentler on shoes compared to regular dryers.
* This is a more expensive option but can be a good investment for frequent shoe drying.
10. The Pillowcase Method
Similar to the towel method, using a pillowcase can also provide cushioning and prevent shoes from banging directly against the dryer drum.
**Materials Needed:**
* Pillowcase
* Your shoes
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Pillowcase:** Use a clean pillowcase.
2. **Place Shoes in Pillowcase:** Put both shoes into the pillowcase.
3. **Tie the Pillowcase:** Tie the open end of the pillowcase to secure the shoes inside.
4. **Place in Dryer:** Put the pillowcase with the shoes into the dryer.
5. **Dry on Low Heat:** Set the dryer to a low heat setting.
6. **Monitor the Dryer:** Check the dryer periodically to ensure the pillowcase stays intact and the shoes are drying properly. Readjust if necessary.
**Tips and Considerations:**
* Use a durable pillowcase that can withstand the dryer’s tumbling action.
* Ensure the pillowcase is securely tied to prevent the shoes from coming out.
* This method is suitable for lightweight shoes and can provide decent cushioning.
General Tips for Drying Shoes in the Dryer
Regardless of the method you choose, here are some general tips to keep in mind when drying shoes in the dryer:
* **Always Use Low Heat:** High heat can damage the glue and materials in shoes, causing them to warp or fall apart. Low heat or air dry settings are always the best options.
* **Clean Shoes Before Drying:** Remove any dirt, mud, or debris from the shoes before placing them in the dryer. This will prevent the dryer from becoming dirty and ensure more even drying.
* **Remove Insoles and Laces:** Take out the insoles and laces from the shoes before drying. This allows them to dry more quickly and prevents the laces from getting tangled.
* **Avoid Overloading the Dryer:** Overloading the dryer can reduce the effectiveness of any cushioning methods and increase the risk of damage to the shoes and the dryer.
* **Monitor the Dryer Regularly:** Check the dryer periodically to ensure the shoes are drying properly and that there are no issues with the chosen method.
* **Air Dry When Possible:** Whenever possible, air drying shoes is the best option. It is gentler on the shoes and eliminates the risk of damage from the dryer. Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
What NOT to Do When Drying Shoes in the Dryer
To ensure the safety of your shoes and your dryer, avoid these common mistakes:
* **Do Not Use High Heat:** As mentioned earlier, high heat can damage the shoes.
* **Do Not Ignore Loud Noises:** If you hear excessively loud banging or unusual noises, stop the dryer immediately and check the shoes. Something may be amiss, and ignoring it could lead to damage.
* **Do Not Dry Shoes with Metal Parts at High Heat:** Shoes with metal eyelets or other metal parts can become excessively hot and potentially damage the dryer or the shoes themselves.
* **Do Not Dry Shoes with Electronics:** Shoes with built-in electronics or lights should not be placed in the dryer, as the heat and moisture can damage the electronic components.
* **Do Not Overload the Dryer:** Overloading the dryer can cause uneven drying and increase the risk of damage.
Conclusion
Drying shoes in the dryer doesn’t have to be a noisy, disruptive experience. By employing one or more of these methods, you can significantly reduce or eliminate the banging noise and protect both your shoes and your appliance. Whether you opt for the simple towel method, the clever shoe suspension hack, or invest in a dedicated shoe dryer, there’s a solution for every need and budget. Remember to always use low heat, monitor the dryer regularly, and prioritize air drying whenever possible. With a little care and attention, you can keep your shoes clean, dry, and your home a little bit quieter.