Introduction:

So you purchased a pair of Meriweather's Water-Resistant Sock Shoe for your infant or toddler? Great choice! Your kids will love them and you will create lasting memories together while keeping their feet dry and comfortable during outdoor adventures. Now it's time to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your sock shoes. If you are like most parents (us included!) you need a shoe that is low maintenance and easy to clean. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to care for your water-resistant sock shoes (don't worry - there isn't much to it but we do provide some extra tips if you want to get the most out of them). Here are the best practices for keeping your little one's sock shoes clean, dry and maintained!

Using Guidelines:

Our water-resistant sock shoes use a waterproof membrane to keep water from penetrating inside the shoe. However, this membrane cannot prevent water from channeling up the outer layer and over the cuff or prevent water from coming into the shoe from the top when a big puddle calls your child's name. For this reason, we do have some recommendations to get the most out of every use:

1. On rainy days, wear a pant that covers the upper portion of the shoe above the ankle. This will prevent water from easily finding it's way into the shoe from the top.
2. Do not fold over the cuff to keep the shoe as high up your child's leg as possible.
3. We do not recommend the lower cut style for puddle jumping type activities because the cut makes them more susceptible to water finding it's way inside the shoe from the top.

Cleaning Guidelines:

Regular cleaning will maintain the cleanliness and functionality of your water-resistant sock shoes. Follow these steps to clean your shoes effectively:

1. With a soft cloth, brush or wipe the shoes to remove any loose dirt or debris. We recommend to hand wash (however, they are machine washable and this will be addressed below).
2. Use a mild soap or a detergent mixed with water to create a cleaning solution.
3. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the outside (and inside if needed) of the sock shoes, focusing on any stained or soiled areas.
4. Rinse the sock shoes thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
5. Air dry the shoes away from direct heat or sunlight (avoid high heats).
6. Our sock shoes are machine washable on cold ONLY. High heats can damage the waterproof membrane. However, we know parents are busy and we won't lie to you. We regularly toss ours in with "regular" loads of laundry and see no issues but it isn't recommended.

Drying Methods:

You are likely thinking, "they are water-resistant, I don't need to dry them." Sounds reasonable, however, proper drying is an important step to prevent moisture buildup and water pulling (a term we made up to describe the effect of water channeling up the outer material, over the cuff, and into the inside of the sock shoe) to maintain the integrity of your water-resistant sock shoes. We especially recommend following these tips after a wet outing to make sure they are ready for your next adventure. Here are some tips for drying your shoes effectively:

1. After cleaning or a wet outing, remove any excess water by gently squeezing the shoes or using a clean towel to absorb moisture.
2. To aid in moisture absorption from the inside of the shoes, consider stuffing them with crumpled newspaper or dry towels. This method helps draw out any remaining moisture and accelerates the drying process..
3. After cleaning your sock shoes, it is essential to find a well-ventilated area to let them air dry naturally. Be sure to avoid using direct heat sources such as space heaters or fireplaces, as they can potentially cause damage to the waterproof membrane in the shoes.
4. Tumble drying is also acceptable. As mentioned, high heats can damage the waterproof membrane so we do not recommend including with "regular" dryer loads.

Storage Tips:

Proper storage will help protect your sock shoes when they are not in use. Follow these tips to care for your sock shoes:

1. Ensure the sock shoes are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold or mildew growth.
2. To maintain the color and appearance of your sock shoes, it's important to store them in a cool, dry location that is shielded from direct sunlight.
3. If possible, store the sock shoes in a breathable bag or container to allow air circulation and prevent dust accumulation.

Conclusion:

Proper care is key to preserving the longevity and performance of your water-resistant sock shoes. By following these care and maintenance practices, you can keep your infants and toddlers' footwear in excellent condition, providing them with dry, comfortable, and reliable protection during their outdoor adventures.