Did you know that flip flops date back thousands of years? They’re thought to have originated in Ancient Egypt around 4,000 BC.
Fast forward to today and they’re just as popular as ever. Not only are they comfortable to wear, but they’re also breathable, which helps to prevent odors.
Like all footwear, however, they can get dirty with regular wear. Don’t worry, though, cleaning flip-flops is super easy—and there’s more than one way to do it.
And that’s exactly what we’ll be going over below. Keep reading for a guide on how to clean flip-flops the right way!
Scrubbing Your Flip Flops With Soap
Wet an old toothbrush (you can also use a soft sponge) and apply a bit of soap to the bristles. Use it to scrub your flip flops to get rid of any mud or grime.
If necessary, you can also add a bit of baking soda. Work it over the surface and allow it to sit for a few minutes—that’ll help remove any odors.
When you’re done cleaning, rinse the flip flops with clean water and let them air dry.
Tip: Consider soaking your flip flops in soapy water first if they’re excessively dirty.
Using the Washing Machine
You can put your old flip flops directly in the washing machine. If anything, you just want to separate them from your clothes, though you can add a few towels to help balance the weight.
Add a small amount of laundry detergent and 1/4 cup of white vinegar (the latter will act as a deodorizing agent). Select a gentle setting and run a cold water cycle. Never use hot water; it can destroy the adhesives and cause the material to warp.
Wait until the cycle is finished before taking your flip-flops out. Turn them upside down and allow them to air dry away from direct sunlight. Never put them in the dryer.
Signs You Need New Flip Flops
Flip flops can last anywhere from a few months to a few years. At the end of the day, it depends on what material they’re made of and how often you wear them.
Here are a few signs that it’s time to look for a new pair:
- The soles are too thin (you can feel the ground through them)
- You’re constantly tripping over them
- The straps are hanging by a thread
- There are holes at the bottom
- They’re giving you constant ankle or heel pain
Knowing How to Clean Flip Flops
And there you have it—a guide on how to clean flip flops the right way. As you can see, there’s more than one way to do it. Just don’t expose them to heat and you’re good to go!
Did you find the information in this post helpful? For more guides like this, make sure to check out the rest of our lifestyle section!
