It is a well-established fact that worldly things do not stay forever. Be it machines, vehicles, and even clothing; specific steps are necessary to keep the item in question functional. The same logic is applied to footwear.
Casual attires are a prerequisite on a day-off. Imagine going to the beach in your work shoes. Not really comfortable, is it? People prefer wearing crocs on such occasions. But as they are used in such an environment, they tend to get dirty and unkempt. If you wish to use them for years, you will have to take a few extra steps in washing and keeping them clean.
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Step by Step Guide to Wash Your Crocs
You cannot expect your crocs to stay neat and tidy at all times. You will have to rub some elbow grease in order to keep them fresh and hygienic.
As there are different types of crocs, you will have to wash them in varying manners. For your convenience, we have segregated them.
Rubber Crocs
Rubber crocs are the most common types of crocs. They can be found in any footwear shop. Moreover, they are lightweight, easy to wear, and also easy to clean.
What will you need?
- Soap
- Water
- Bleach
- Toothbrush
- Scrub brush
- Dry cloth
Process:
→ Take your dirty crocs and rinse them under regular water. Scrub any visible dirt traces with your fingers to remove the layer.
→ Fill a bucket with warm water and mix some detergent soap in it. Mix the solution well till you see bubbles. Warm water is essential to clean and sanitize the crocs. If they are filthy, you can also try adding bleach to warm water.
→ Once the solution is prepared, submerge the crocs in the bucket and let them soak. Let them sit for a few seconds and then start scrubbing.
→ Using an effective scrub brush, start by gently scrubbing the layer of your crocs. Put extra effort in the places that have visible dirt lines and stains.
→ As crocs have vent holes, it might be challenging to get those edges cleaned with a scrub brush. Instead, use a toothbrush for such areas. You can also use Q-tips to clean hard-to-reach places.
→ If you are dealing with stubborn stains, you can also try certain store-bought cleaners. They are highly effective in removing stains and spots from the crocs.
→ Once the crocs appear clean, remove them from the bucket and place them under clean running water. Remove the solution and dry them with a towel or cloth.
→ Place them in a well-ventilated area or under the sun for a few hours.
→ Finally, your crocs are ready to be worn for a lovely day out.
Canvas Crocs
Another widely-used type of crocs is the canvas crocs. They come with laces for enhanced comfort.
What will you need?
- Soap
- Water
- Toothbrush
- Sponge
- Cloth
- Towel
Process:
→ As canvas crocs have laces embedded, it is best to remove and wash them separately for better results. Place the laces in soapy water and let them soak. Once they appear clean, rinse them under clean water and let them dry.
→ It is time to get to the central part. Prepare a mixture of soap and water. Ensure that you are using mild soap to avoid causing any harm to the canvas.
→ Use a toothbrush to scrub the crocs in their entirety. Cover all nooks and corners. If you are unsure about the solution, you can get a patch test done before lathering the crocs with it. Try cleaning a small area with the solution and verify its effects. Only after you are satisfied with the results, rub the crocs with soapy water.
→ Avoid scrubbing on the prints to prevent chaffing.
→ If you are dealing with tough stains, you can get a laundry stain remover. Follow the directions mentioned on the bottle and get stain-free crocs!
→ After you have cleaned the crocs, take a sponge and dip it in clean water. Dab the sponge on the canvas crocs to get rid of any soap. You can also use a cloth for the same.
→ Gently rub them with a clean towel to eliminate any moisture. Leave them near a door or window for them to get dried. Avoid placing your canvas crocs under direct sunlight. It might cause the fabric to lose color.
Winter Lining in Crocs
Fur-lined crocs or Fuzzy crocs are high in demand during the winter season.
What will you need?
- Absorbent powder like cornmeal, wheat germ, or dry oatmeal
- Salt
- Baking soda
- Water
- Shampoo
Process:
→ If you have to remove dirt or odor from the sheepskin-like lining in your crocs, you have to go beyond the regular soap and water trick. You will need solid and efficient absorbent powders that could remove the dirt and odor from your footwear.
→ Absorbent powders like cornmeal or dry oatmeal could do the trick.
→ Sprinkle the powder on the winter lining. Ensure that every nook and corner is covered. Sprinkle a little extra, if required.
→ Let it sit for three hours. After the time is up, try to remove the powder by shaking the crocs over the trash can. You can also vacuum them to get rid of the powder completely.
→ If you see any remaining stains or spots, you can also get the lining dry-cleaned. But take note that the color might change after a wash.
→ You can also handwash it by soaking it in warm water and shampoo. Rinse it in clean water and let it dry. Such lining will take a couple of days to get dry, so you will have to be patient.
Other Materials
Besides the one mentioned above, several different types of crocs material will require a subjective style of cleaning.
a) Croslite Material
Croslite is a patented material used by Crocs. Basically, it is a closed-cell resin that is an injection-molded EVA foam.
To clean such crocs, you can handwash them. If there are several spots, you can clean them in your washing machine on a gentle cycle.
b) Leather
If your crocs have a leather material, you will need a sponge and leather cream.
Clean the crocs with a rubber sponge or damp cloth. If you are worried about your crocs losing their shine, you can use a leather protector or leather cream.
If your crocs are made of smooth napa leather, use a cotton brush to apply the wax on the crocs.
Avoid using substances like alcohol or any detergent liquid to clean leather crocs.
c) Synthetic
Take a damp cloth and spot clean the crocs. It is best to avoid solvent cleaners on synthetic footwear as it could demolish the glue used to hold the sole together.
d) Suede or Wool
Crocs with suede or wool construction need waterproofing spray. Clean the footwear with a plastic brush and eliminate any traces of dirt or spots. Use a damp cloth and soak it in some soapy water. Clean the crocs with it. You can also clean it in your washing machine on a gentle cycle with minimum heat.
How to Deodorize Crocs?
Besides being dirty, your crocs could also start smelling after some time. If you find yourself in a similar situation, try out the following solutions:
a) Baking soda and Hydrogen peroxide
Baking soda has proven to be an effective element in eliminating odor from footwear. Make a paste by mixing baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and water. Scrub the solution on the crocs, especially on its inner sole. Let it sit and rinse under cold water.
b) Vinegar and Baking soda
Baking soda can be used in different manners. Prepare a solution of baking soda and vinegar and spray it on the crocs. Wipe it down with a damp cloth, and you are good to go!
5 Intriguing Facts about Cleaning Crocs
Before coming to the end of this article, we would like our readers to take away some interesting facts and tips about cleaning crocs.
Crocs Can Shrink
Many people do not know this, but your crocs can shink under certain circumstances. If you keep them in direct heat or once placed in a dryer, they can reduce their size.
The Inner Lining is Removable in Fur-lined Crocs
Look for the two circles on each side of the shoe. The fur holding on acts like buttons through which you can remove the lining.
You can Wash the Fur-lined Crocs
No major damage will be caused if you wash the fur by hand. Just use a mild soap to clean it, and you are good to go.
Disinfecting Crocs is Possible
As the crocs might start smelling due to foot odor, you might experience a foul smell. But you can use any of the techniques mentioned above to get rid of it.
Avoid Using Hot Water
Never use hot water while cleaning or washing crocs as they might shrink. You can use warm or cold water for the cleaning procedure.
The bottom line
Crocs are one of the most comfortable footwear available in present times. As much as they are easy to wear, they are also easy to clean and maintain. Just remember to be careful while dealing with them as they could possibly shrink.
Also Read:
Oofos VS Crocs; Which sandal is most comfortable
Brandon R. Katz is a registered professional nurse who has been instrumental in providing us with an informed opinion on the medical aspects of footwear. He graduated from NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and currently provides his services at a non-federal long-term care hospital in Brooklyn, NY.
Brandon proves to be the champion in the group of expert writers with his in-depth knowledge in foot health, how to take care of it adequately, and what shoes, socks, or insoles will be supreme for you. He has previously worked with hospitals where he has foreseen both inpatient and outpatient departments and has been a practicing nurse since 2009.
Brandon hails from Jersey City, NY, and has a loving family of four with a small popper called Rozo. His decision to become a nurse arises from the desire to be in the position of helping and rehabilitating people.
