How to Clean Crocs in 3 Simple Steps

Crocs have become one of the most popular footwear choices over the past couple of decades. Known for their comfort, durability, and style, Crocs are a great option for everyday wear. However, keeping Crocs clean can be a challenge. With their iconic holes and textured material, Crocs can trap dirt, debris, and odors easily. Luckily, cleaning Crocs is easy with just a few simple steps and inexpensive household items. Here’s how to clean Crocs in 3 simple steps.

Step 1: Remove Debris and Dirt

The first step when cleaning Crocs is to remove any stuck-on debris or embedded dirt. This will ensure a deeper clean when you move on to washing them. Here are some tips for removing debris and dirt from Crocs:

Shake Off Loose Dirt

Start by holding the Crocs upside down and shaking them vigorously to dislodge any loose dirt or debris. The holes in Crocs make this easy as the particles will fall right out.
You can also bang the shoes together to help knock off dried mud or small pebbles. Be sure to do this outside or over a trash can.

Use a Stiff Brush

For debris stuck in the holes or tread, use a stiff brush to scrub it away. A toothbrush or vegetable brush works well.
Make sure to get into every nook and cranny. Pay close attention to the heel, sides, tread, and around the toe post.

Rinse With Water

After brushing away debris, rinse the Crocs under running water. This will help wash away any remaining loose dirt.
Aim the water pressure directly into the holes and crevices to flush out particles.
Let the excess water drain out before moving onto washing.

Thoroughly removing built-up debris is key for getting Crocs squeaky clean. So take the time to really dig out any dirt in this first step.

Step 2: Wash With Soap and Water

Once you’ve gotten rid of all the loose dirt and debris, it’s time to wash the Crocs. This removes odors, deep-set stains, and any remaining stuck-on gunk.

Here is the best process for washing Crocs:

Use Mild Soap and Warm Water

Fill a sink, bucket, or basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild liquid hand or dish soap.
Avoid using harsh detergents which could damage the Crocs material.
Allow the Crocs to soak in the soapy water for 5-10 minutes to loosen any grime.

Scrub With a Soft Brush

Use a soft bristle brush, sponge, or washcloth to gently scrub the Crocs inside and out.
Make sure to get soap into every hole and crevice.
Pay extra attention to dirty areas like the tread and heel.

Rinse Thoroughly

Once scrubbed, place the Crocs under running water to rinse away all the soap and grime.
Rinse until the water runs clear and keep rinsing for an extra 30 seconds to remove any residue.

Let Air Dry

After washing, place the wet Crocs in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely.
Don’t put Crocs in the dryer or near direct heat, which can warp the material.

Washing with simple soap and water keeps Crocs looking like new. Be sure to do this regularly, especially if wearing your Crocs often.

Step 3: Disinfect and Deodorize

After cleaning and washing Crocs, it’s important to disinfect them to kill bacteria and help remove odors. Here are some easy ways to disinfect and deodorize Crocs:

Use Diluted Bleach

In a ventilated area, mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water in a bucket or basin.
Place the dry Crocs in the solution and let soak 5-10 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward.

Try Vinegar

Fill Crocs with undiluted white vinegar and let soak overnight.
The acetic acid in vinegar kills bacteria and removes odors.
Rinse well in the morning – the smell dissipates quickly.

Baking Soda

Coat the inside of Crocs with baking soda, using about 2 tablespoons per shoe.
Let sit overnight before dumping out the baking soda.
The baking soda absorbs odors and neutralizes bacteria.

Tea Tree Oil

Put 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil on a cotton ball.
Place inside each Crocs overnight.
Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and antifungal.

Dry in Sunlight

Letting Crocs dry in direct sunlight helps kill bacteria and odors.
Place in a sunny spot for 6-8 hours after washing.

Disinfecting and deodorizing keeps Crocs fresh between washes. Pick your preferred method based on what products you have at home.

Tips for Keeping Crocs Clean

Keeping Crocs clean starts with practicing good care between washes. Here are some useful tips for maintaining fresh Crocs:

Shake out debris after wearing – don’t let it get compacted and stuck in the holes.
Use soap and water to spot clean visible stains.
Sprinkle baking soda inside to absorb odors at the end of the day.
Switch between multiple pairs so you aren’t wearing the same Crocs two days in a row.
Use Crocs cleaning wipes after wearing to remove bacteria and odors.
Replace insoles regularly as these trap most odors – about every 6-12 months.
Use Crocs disinfecting and deodorizing sprays periodically.
Place Crocs in a well-ventilated area overnight to dry out between wears.
Consider buying Crocs charms which block holes and prevent debris buildup.

With the proper care, your Crocs can look and smell great for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Crocs

Many people have questions about the best practices for keeping Crocs clean. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cleaning Crocs.

Can you put Crocs in the washing machine?

Yes, you can put Crocs in the washing machine, but only certain models. Check the Crocs website to see if your specific style is washer-friendly. Use the delicate cycle and cold water. Let air dry completely after washing.

What about putting Crocs in the dishwasher?

Dishwashers are too harsh for Crocs and can cause warping or other damage. It’s best to always hand wash Crocs using mild soap and water.

How do you get smelly Crocs to stop stinking?

To thoroughly de-stink smelly Crocs, use a 50/50 vinegar and water solution. Spray or dip Crocs to soak overnight. Baking soda can also help absorb stubborn odors if left inside shoes overnight.

How do you deep clean Crocs?

For a deep clean, hand wash Crocs with warm soapy water using a scrub brush. Then disinfect using diluted bleach, vinegar or tea tree oil soaks. Leave in direct sunlight to dry for 6-8 hours. Replace insoles if odors persist.

Can Crocs go in the freezer to kill bacteria?

Freezing Crocs is not an effective cleaning method and can actually damage the material. Your best bet is to disinfect Crocs using safe chemical solutions like diluted bleach.

What household items clean Crocs?

Mild soap and water, vinegar, diluted bleach, baking soda and tea tree oil are common household items that can be used to effectively clean and disinfect Crocs. Avoid harsh chemicals.

How do you whiten dirty Crocs?

Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste. Spread paste on surfaces of Crocs and let sit 20-30 minutes before rinsing. The solution will gently lift stains and whiten.

Keeping Crocs clean takes some work but is easy with the right techniques. Refer to these FAQs for handy tips when your Crocs need freshening up.

Conclusion

Crocs are a versatile and comfortable shoe loved by many. However, their iconic design with holes can allow grime, odors and bacteria to build up. By following these 3 simple Crocs cleaning steps, you can keep your shoes looking and smelling fresh:

Remove Debris – Shake out and brush away dried dirt and particles from holes and tread.
Wash – Hand wash Crocs with mild soap and water, scrubbing gently with a soft brush.
Disinfect and Deodorize – Use solutions like diluted bleach, vinegar or tea tree oil to kill bacteria and neutralize odors.

Practicing regular cleaning ensures your Crocs maintain top comfort and style for many years of wear. With just a few household products and some elbow grease, Crocs are easy to clean.

So revive your dirty Crocs with a thorough scrubbing using these tips. Your feet will thank you for restoring that signature Crocs comfort, freshness and fun.