How to Clean Crocs the Right Way

The good news is that classic Crocs are incredibly easy to clean and can even go in the washing machine if you so choose. According to the folks who make the shoes, the signature Croclite foam material will fare just fine in the washing machine if you use a mild detergent and send the clogs for a spin on the gentle cycle. That said, if you don’t own a washing machine or would rather not toss your shoes in there, you’ll be pleased to know that Crocs can also be handwashed or spot cleaned. (Psst: This is actually the preferred way of cleaning them for the sake of longevity.)

What You’ll Need:

• Dish soap or mild detergent
• Microfiber cloth
• Wash basin

How to Clean Them:

• Step 1. Fill a wash basin with water. The manufacturer recommends using cold water, as the material can either shrink or degrade when exposed to high temperatures.
• Step 2. Add a mild laundry detergent to the basin. Swish it around with your hand so the water gets nice and soapy.
• Step 3. Toss the Crocs in the basin and let them soak for 30 minutes or so.
• Step 4. Remove the shoes from the wash basin; dip a microfiber cloth in the soapy liquid and use the cloth to target any remaining stains.
• Step 5. Rinse the Crocs under cold water to remove any soapy residue and let them air dry.

That sherpa lining in your fuzzy Crocs is oh-so cozy and luxurious…until your toasty tootsies cause it to stink and you realize it isn’t removable. Fear not: There’s a handwashing solution for this problem, too.

What You’ll Need:

• Dish soap or gentle detergent
• Wash basin
• Hair blow dryer (optional)

How to Clean Them:

• Step 1. Fill a wash basin with warm, but not hot water. (Yes, warm water is OK this time.)
• Step 2. Add a sufficient amount of gentle laundry detergent and, again, swish it around until it’s fully incorporated.
• Step 3. Send the offending footwear into the soapy solution and let them linger there for 30 minutes.
• Step 4. Rinse the Crocs under cold, fresh water.
• Step 5. Allow the Crocs to air dry completely before wearing them again. (Psst: If you’re in a hurry then you can speed up the drying process with a hair blow dryer—just be sure to keep it on the lowest temperature setting and at a reasonable distance from the Crocs, lest you distort their shape with excessive heat.)

If you splurged on a fancy pair of patent or regular leather Crocs, the cleaning process is quite different than what was described above—namely because water and leather don’t mix. As such, it’s important to use water very sparingly when spot cleaning and also to finish with a water-repellent spray for extra protection when you’re done.

What You’ll Need:

• Soft rubber sponge or microfiber cloth
• Leather cream
• Cotton brush
• Water-repellent spray

How to Clean Them:

• Step 1. Use a slightly dampened microfiber cloth or soft rubber sponge to gently buff away visible dirt and stains from the surface of the Crocs.
• Step 2. Next, apply a professional leather cream to the exterior of the Crocs using a cotton brush. This will give your favorite leather footwear a glossy sheen.
• Step 3. Finish them off with a spritz of leather-friendly, water-repellent spray and say hello to your good-as-brand-new shoes.

From Birkenstock-style slides in suede and wool to slip-on canvas deck shoes, Crocs has really upped its natural fiber game with shoes that are even softer than the traditional foam sandal. Additionally, these materials absorb sweat and body oils—all the better for you to know how to clean them.

What You’ll Need:

• Soft-bristle brush or shoe brush
• Wash basin
• Gentle detergent
• Microfiber cloth
• Waterproofing shoe spray

How to Clean Them:

• Step 1. Use the soft-bristle brush to gently wipe away any surface dirt or debris.
• Step 2. Add a sufficient amount of gentle laundry detergent and, again, swish it around until it’s fully incorporated.
• Step 3. Dunk microfiber cloth into soapy water, wring it out until damp then wipe away soiled spots, inside and out.
• Step 4. Run a fresh cloth under clean water, and use it to dab away soapy water from any spot treated areas.
• Step 5. Allow the Crocs to air dry completely.
• Step 6. Lighly cover with waterproofing spray and let completely dry before wearing again.

So, there you have it—precious few materials and very little labor is required to make your beloved pair of Crocs sparkle like the day you bought ‘em.

• Clean them promptly after walking through muddy or dusty areas
• On classic foam pairs, keep a Magic Eraser on hand to spot-clean any pen marks or paint stains
•  Swipe foam and leather Crocs with Armor All car upholstery protectant before hitting the beach or pool
• Avoid prolonged exposure to highly chlorinated water
• Treat with Crocs Shine, a polish with applicator made by the shoe manufacturer