Do your flip-flops smell so bad that you can’t bear to put them on your feet anymore? If so, it might be time to give them a good clean. Whether they’re made of rubber, foam, or fabric, there are some easy ways to rid them of their funk and help make them as good as new.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to clean stinky flip flops and keep your shoes odorless all summer long!
Why Do My Feet Smell in Flip Flops?
Before we get into cleaning your flip-flops, let’s take a quick look at why they start to smell in the first place. Flip flops are made of materials that allow sweat and bacteria to accumulate on the surface, leading to bad odors.
When our feet perspire, the moisture combines with bacteria on the footbed and creates an unpleasant smell. If you don’t clean your flip-flops regularly, the sweat and bacteria will keep building up, leading to a stench that nobody wants to be around.
11 Methods on How to Clean Stinky Flip Flops
1. Soak in Vinegar
One of the easiest ways to clean stinky flip-flops is to soak them in vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will help to remove any bacteria that may be causing the shoes to smell. Simply fill a basin with equal parts water and vinegar, and soak the flip-flops for 30 minutes. If the smell persists after the initial soak, you can try soaking them for an additional 30 minutes.
2. Wash with Soap and Water
Another effective way to clean smelly flip-flops is to wash them with soap and water. Fill a basin with hot water and a few squirts of mild dish soap or laundry detergent. Place the flip-flops in the soapy water and allow them to soak for 30 minutes. After soaking, use a soft brush, if necessary, to remove any stubborn dirt or debris from the shoes. Rinse with clean water and allow to air dry completely before wearing again.
3. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great way to clean stinky flip-flops. The baking soda will absorb any moisture and odors from the shoes. To use this method, simply sprinkle baking soda on the shoes and let them sit for 30 minutes before brushing them off. While this is not as effective for removing stains, it is an excellent way to deodorize your shoes. If the shoes are particularly smelly, you can also add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda before sprinkling it onto the shoes. The essential oil will help to further eliminate any odors and leave your flip-flops smelling fresh.
4. Rub with Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can also be used to clean stinky flip-flops. The alcohol will help to kill any bacteria that may be causing the odor. Simply pour some rubbing alcohol onto a cloth and rub it onto the shoes. Let the shoe air dry before wearing them again. Make sure to use a cloth that is only used for cleaning, as alcohol can damage other materials. Rubbing alcohol should not be put directly onto the foot. While it can help to get rid of smells, it is not safe to apply directly to the skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider using one of the other methods listed here.
5. Use Borax
Borax is an effective yet gentle cleaning product that can help to remove odors from your flip-flops. To use, mix two tablespoons of borax with a quart of warm water and soak the shoes in the mixture for 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water before allowing them to air dry completely. While borax is effective at removing odors, it can also be abrasive if used too often. If you notice any discoloration or damage to the material of your shoes, discontinue use and try a different method.
6. Soak in Tea
Soaking stinky flip-flops in tea can also help to remove any odors. The tannic acid in tea will help to break down any oils or sweat that may be causing the smell. Simply brew a pot of tea and let the flip-flops soak in it for 30 minutes before rinsing them off. Try to dry your flip-flops in the sun or with a fan to help further remove any odors. However, be sure to check the material of your flip-flops before soaking them, as some materials may not react well with tea. Make sure to also only use plain tea, as adding milk or sugar could cause your flip-flops to discolor.
7. Freeze Them
Another way to clean stinky flip-flops is to freeze them overnight. This will help to kill any bacteria that may be causing the odor. Simply place the flip-flops in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. In the morning, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature before wearing them again. When the flip-flops are completely thawed, give them a quick scrub with a brush or cloth, and then let them air dry. This should help to remove any lingering odors. Although this method is not as effective as the washing machine, it’s a great way to freshen up your flip-flops between washes.
8. Wash with Laundry Detergent
Washing stinky flip-flops with laundry detergent can also help to remove any odors. The detergent will help to break down any oils or sweat that may be causing the smell. Simply add a small amount of laundry detergent to a basin of water and soak the flip-flops for 30 minutes before rinsing them off. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to help counter any remaining odors. Afterward, be sure to air-dry the flip-flops in a well-ventilated area. Although this method is effective for removing odors, it may not be as effective for removing stains.
9. Deodorize with Essential Oils
Essential oils can also be used to deodorize stinky flip-flops. The oils will help to mask any unpleasant smells while also killing any bacteria that may be causing the odor. Simply add a few drops of essential oil to a cloth and rub it onto the shoes. Let the shoe air dry before wearing them again to get the most benefit. Additionally, you can spray a bit of essential oil into the shoe itself before putting them on to help keep any future odors at bay. With regular use, essential oils can help keep your flip-flops smelling fresh and clean.
10. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great tool for dealing with smelly flip-flops. Simply sprinkle some baking soda into each shoe, leave it in overnight and then shake out the excess before wearing them again. Baking soda will absorb moisture and help to kill any odors that may be lingering in your flip-flops. Additionally, it is completely natural and safe to use, so you can feel good about using this deodorizing method. If the smell persists, simply repeat the process until you have achieved your desired results. Make sure to use baking soda that is specifically designated for deodorizing, as some baking powder products may contain added fragrances or scents.
11. Let them Air Dry
Finally, always make sure to let your flip-flops air dry after wearing them before putting them away. Moisture in the shoes can contribute to an increased chance of bacteria and odors, so make sure to let them air out completely before putting them away. This can help keep your flip-flops smelling fresh and clean for a much longer period of time. Make sure to check the inside of your shoes for any signs of discoloration or mold before wearing them again. Although this is a simple step, it can go a long way in helping your flip-flops last for many years!
With these simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your flip-flops stay odor free for many summers to come!
Things to Consider When Cleaning Stinky Flip Flips
1. Determine the Cause of the Smell:
Most often, flip-flops become smelly when they are worn without socks or in wet environments. It is important to determine the cause of the smell before deciding how to clean your flip-flops. If you’ve been wearing them without socks or in wet weather, it may be best to opt for a foot spray, an antibacterial solution, or a special shoe deodorizer designed specifically for smelly feet.
2. Cleaning and Disinfecting:
Once you’ve determined the cause of the stench, it’s time to take action. Before cleaning your flip-flops, remove any excess dirt and debris using a soft brush or cloth. Then use warm water and soap or a mild cleanser to scrub away any remaining dirt and grime from the surface of your shoes. To disinfect your flip-flops, mix a solution of half bleach and half water in a spray bottle and liberally mist the inside and outside of your shoes. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing them with cool water.
3. Air Drying:
Once you’ve cleaned your flip-flops, it’s important to allow them to air dry completely before using them again. If possible, try to hang your shoes up by their straps or laces so that they can get plenty of airflow during the drying process. However, if this isn’t an option, you can also leave them in a well-ventilated area, such as near a fan or window, until they are completely dry. Never place your shoes directly on a heater or in the sun, as this can lead to cracking, peeling, and other damage.
Conclusion
If your flip-flops start to smell, don’t worry! There are a few easy ways to clean them and make them smell fresh again. Look no further than this tutorial. This method only takes a few minutes and will leave your shoes smelling fresh and clean. Give it a try the next time your sandals start to stink – you won’t be disappointed!
We hope this guide on how to clean stinky flip flops was helpful. Please share it with your friends on social media if you find it useful. And be sure to check back here soon for more informative guides like this one.
