How to Clean Crocs

For more than two decades, Crocs have been one of the preferred types of casual footwear for all ages. Initially, Crocs were made out of foam and had a signature clunky look with a slip-on design. Now, Crocs are also available with leather, fabric and even fur trim. Given how frequently people wear their Crocs, they can get dirty quickly. When you learn how to clean Crocs, you can keep your shoes looking like new.

Basic Cleaning Techniques

Whether you have brand-new Crocs or a knock-off brand, the cleaning steps are generally the same. However, be aware that the recommended cleaning methods do vary based on the materials your Crocs are made with.

Hand Washing

Regardless of the type of Crocs you own, you can hand-wash them with a mixture of mild liquid soap, baking soda and water.

First, rinse any loose debris off. Mix the soap, baking soda and warm water in a bowl. Use a soft-bristled brush and the soapy solution to clean away visible debris. After the dirt and odors are gone, wipe the soapy residue off using a clean cloth and fresh water.

Machine Washing

Your Crocs can also be cleaned in the washing machine using mild laundry detergent. To avoid banging, wash them with a load of towels using the machine’s light or delicate cycle. Let the shoes air dry in a shaded area.

Deep Cleaning and Odor Removal

From time to time, special steps are necessary to deep clean and deodorize your Crocs. Foam Crocs can be deep cleaned with a soapy liquid solution and a soft-bristle brush. Scrub the interior and exterior of the shoes thoroughly.

After rinsing and drying the shoes, place them in a bag with baking soda. Shake the bag around to cover the shoes with baking soda. After several hours, remove the shoes and wipe them clean.

Cleaning Different Types of Crocs

Cleaning your Crocs is relatively easy to do, but there isn’t a single method that is best for all materials. Fur-lined Crocs, decorated Crocs and leather or suede Crocs require special care.

Fur-lined Crocs

Use a lightly dampened cloth and soapy water to wipe down the shoes’ interior. The cloth will get dirty as you work.

Regularly rinse the cloth and wring it out thoroughly so that it remains clean. Use another cloth and fresh water to wipe the soapy water off the shoes. Don’t wear the shoes again until they are completely dry.

Leather or Suede Variants

Use clean water and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the leather or suede exterior of your Crocs. For the shoes’ heels and soles, you can add a few drops of liquid soap to the water for a deeper clean. Then, dry and polish the shoes with an appropriate color of leather polish.

Decorated or Embellished Crocs

If the embellishments on your Crocs are removable, remove them. Then, follow the cleaning instructions for the type of material that your Crocs are made with.

If the decorations are permanently attached, lightly wipe down the shoes with clean water. Avoid dislodging any decorations as you work your way around the shoes.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Crocs Looking New

• Wash your Crocs as soon as you spot dirt or smell an unpleasant odor.
• Wipe down foam Crocs at least once a week.
• Don’t dry your Crocs in the dryer, near a heat source or in the sun.
• Don’t use harsh chemical cleaning products.
• Don’t store crocs in a hot environment or in the sunlight.
• Lightly sprinkle baking soda inside fleece-lined shoes after each use to prevent odors.

When to Replace Your Crocs

While Crocs are durable shoes, they won’t last forever. Your Crocs need to be replaced if they continue to smell bad despite your best effort to clean them. The smell often comes from bacterial growth in the shoes. Your shoes also should be replaced if they are worn thin in areas or if the foam begins to crack. Permanent stains are another sign that Crocs need to be replaced.

From your shoes to your fridge, blinds, upholstery and more, keeping your home and belongings clean requires consistent effort. At Cleanzen, we believe that our customers should enjoy all of the benefits of a clean space without the hassle and fatigue that comes with cleaning the house on your own. Contact Cleanzen Boston today to inquire about cleaning services for your home.