Crocs, those colorful, comfortable, and sometimes controversial foam clogs, have become a staple in many people’s shoe collections. Whether you wear them for gardening, as house shoes, or even as a fashion statement, one question always seems to come up. How do you keep them clean? More specifically, people want to know if you can put Crocs in the washing machine.
Best Way to Wash Your Crocs
Yes, you can wash Crocs in the washing machine, but it’s not always the best method. Crocs are made from a proprietary closed-cell resin called Croslite, which is remarkably durable and easy to clean. The company actually suggests hand-washing is the best way to keep your shoes in great shape and make them last longer.
For everyday cleaning, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is often sufficient. But sometimes your Crocs need a more thorough cleaning. In that case, you can use mild soap and warm water to scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth. This method works really well for getting rid of surface dirt and stains, and it won’t harm the shoe.
How to Wash Your Crocs in a Washing Machine
Sometimes your Crocs might end up covered in mud, smelling less than fresh, or stained beyond what a quick scrub can handle. When your shoes are really dirty, machine washing can be a tempting option. If you do choose to machine wash your Crocs, there are several precautions to take.
Always use the gentle or delicate cycle with cold water to minimize potential damage. Hot water can cause the Croslite material to warp or shrink. You can add a small amount of mild detergent but avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. It’s best to place the Crocs in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from excessive agitation and to prevent them from banging around in the washing machine, which could damage both the shoes and the machine.
After washing, whether by hand or machine, you want to make sure to dry your Crocs properly. Never put them in the dryer, as the heat can cause them to shrink or warp. Instead, you want to air dry them, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Stuffing them with paper towels can help absorb excess moisture and maintain their shape as they dry.
Risks of Using a Washing Machine to Clean Crocs
While machine washing your Crocs is possible, it does come with some risks. Frequent machine washing can cause the Croslite material to break down faster, potentially shortening the lifespan of your Crocs. Washing machines can also fade the colors or cause the shoes to lose their shape.
For Crocs with fur linings or other embellishments, machine washing is not recommended at all. These special features need a bit more gentle care to keep them looking good and working well.
To Sum Everything Up
The best cleaning method for your Crocs depends on how dirty they are and how much time you’re willing to invest in cleaning them. For minimal dirt, a quick hand wash is usually sufficient. For more stubborn dirt or odors, a careful machine wash might be appropriate, but it should only be done occassionally.
Prevention is often the best approach. If you clean and take care of your Crocs regularly, they’ll stay looking fresh and you won’t have to do deep cleaning as often. Consider using a protective spray designed for rubber or plastic shoes to create a barrier against dirt and stains.
Just remember Crocs are made to last and super easy to take care of! With a little attention and the right cleaning techniques, you can keep your favorite foam clogs looking fresh and ready for whatever adventures come their way, whether that’s a day in the garden, a trip to the beach, or a casual night out.
