The temperature’s going up up up, so that means it’s time to break out the flip flops! These shoes are perfect for keeping your feet cool during the summer. Flip flops are easy to slip into quickly and even easier to kick off for a swim, plus they don’t hold sand, dirt, or other debris like enclosed shoes do.
Flip flops aren’t quite the perfect shoe, however. They can become smelly, stained, or become caked in wet sand or mud that doesn’t easily brush off.
For leather flip flops, it’s best to hand wash your shoes. But flip flops made of rubber or foam have more cleaning options. Keep reading to learn how to keep your flip flops clean!
Washing Flip Flops in Your Washing Machine
When your flip flops become dirty or smelly, it’s time to give them a clean. This method uses your washing machine.
Rinse off each flip flop to wash away any major debris like rocks, leaves, or layers of sand or mud. Check to make sure there aren’t any other clothes in your washing machine, then toss your shoes in.
Add only a small amount of laundry detergent and make sure you’re using cold water only. Warmer temperatures can warp your flip flops, making them uncomfortable to wear.
After your flip flops are washed, take them outside. If you still see any dirt or debris on your flip flops (rare but not impossible), you can use a hose with a nozzle to give your shoes a final rinse.
Let them air dry in the sun or use a fan to speed up the process!
Washing Flip Flops in Your Dishwasher
Use your dishwasher for a simple and easy way to clean your rubber flip flops!
Open your dishwasher and place your flip flops on the top rack. Place them with the bottom of the shoes facing down so the spray will hit them correctly.
If the shoes aren’t completely clean after an initial wash, run them through one more time. You can use dishwasher detergent if you want to try getting smells or strong stains off your flip flops, but it isn’t necessary if they’re just needing to be rinsed down.
Once they’re finished, you’ll do the same as if they went through the washing machine and set them out in the sun or under a fan!