Using a hair dryer on wet shoes can be safe if done properly, but it's essential to exercise caution to prevent damage to the shoes or any potential harm to yourself. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Material check: Ensure that your shoes are made of materials that can withstand heat. Leather, canvas, and most synthetic materials are usually safe, but delicate materials like suede may be damaged by heat.
Keep a distance: Maintain a reasonable distance between the hair dryer and the shoes. Holding it too close can cause overheating and potentially damage the shoe's material.
Use low heat and airflow settings: Set the hair dryer to its lowest heat and airflow settings to avoid excessive heat exposure.
Move the dryer continuously: Keep the hair dryer moving rather than focusing on one spot for too long. This helps to distribute the heat more evenly.
Avoid direct contact with water: Don't use the hair dryer on excessively wet areas inside the shoe, as electrical appliances and water can be a dangerous combination.
Pat dry first: Before using the hair dryer, use a clean towel or paper towels to absorb as much water from the shoes as possible. This will reduce the overall drying time.
As for speeding up the drying time, using a hair dryer can indeed help by providing a source of warm, dry air that helps to evaporate the moisture trapped inside the shoes. However, it's important to note that even with a hair dryer, the drying process may take some time, especially if the shoes are very wet.
An alternative and possibly safer method to dry wet shoes is to stuff them with dry newspaper or paper towels. The paper will absorb the moisture, and you can change it regularly until the shoes are dry. This method is gentler on the shoe material and reduces the risk of damage.
Remember, the best practice for drying wet shoes is to let them air dry naturally at room temperature, as this reduces the risk of damaging the shoes. If you choose to use a hair dryer, follow the safety precautions mentioned above and use it sparingly.