How to Clean Crocs: An Easy Guide

by John Griffith
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Crocs are of the most popular and versatile shoe on the market. They are great for wearing indoors as much as outdoors, and they are super comfortable and customizable. That’s also the main reason they quickly get so dirty, especially if they are white. It seems being an all-terrain shoe takes its toll. Since Crocs come in all kinds of colors and for all types of season, you should pay attention to how you need to clean them. Every type of shoe needs a different cleaning method. For example, you wouldn’t clean suede shoes the same way you would a pair of boots. So, let’s get down to business. If your favorite pair is in need of a good cleaning, we’ve got you! Check out our super easy guide on how to clean Crocs without damaging them!

Crocs are comfy, cool and customizable 

best way to clean crocs orange crocs

Can You Put Crocs In The Washing Machine?

Even though this may seem like the best and easiest option, it does carry some risks. While it’s not recommended, technically you can put your Crocs in the washing machine to clean them. It’s good to keep in mind that Crocs are made from a special kind of material called croslite polymer. It is porous in nature, and is filled with natural resin. When this material is subjected to high temperatures, it can get ruined as it starts to change negatively.

Therefore, if you do decide to wash your Crocs in the washing machine, ensure that the temperature is no higher than 20 degrees Celsius. It’s also better to put the shoes in a special bag or a pillowcase to prevent them from losing their shape. Make sure to also disable the drying and spinning options on the machine in order to minimize all chances of deforming the Crocs.

Take caution when putting Crocs in the washing machine

dirty crocs putting crocs in the washing machine

Can You Put Crocs In The Dishwasher?

Although it may seem as a quick and easy way to get the dirt off your shoes, Crocs strongly recommend to not use the dishwasher or the washing machine as the heat exposure may cause the Croslite material to shrink. So, to avoid any problems occurring with your favorite pair, let’s learn how to properly clean them.

Do not put Crocs in the dishwasher

how to clean fuzzy crocs dishwasher with plates

Best Way To Clean Crocs

Whether you need to clean your Birkenstock sandals or your Crocs, all you really need to know in order to achieve perfection is some tips and tricks.

Even Priyanka Chopra loves Crocs!

how to clean fur lined crocs priyankra wearing blue crocs

Soap and Water

A classic method, perfect for the waterproof champion of shoes. This method is ideal for a super light clean.

Items:

  • Mild soap
  • Cold water
  • Toothbrush or scrub brush
  • Bowl or sink

Method:

  1. In a large bowl of cold water, add one teaspoon of mild soap.
  2. Mix until a solution forms.
  3. Submerge the Crocs in the water and start gently scrubbing them with the brush.
  4. Make sure to pay extra attention to the inner and outer soles, as that is where the most dirt builds up.
  5. Change the water and solution if the bowl gets too dirty.
  6. Rinse your Crocs in cold water.
  7. Let them air dry.

Yep, it really is that simple. Crocs are made to be easy to clean, that’s just another great thing about them.

A classic and easy cleaning method

can you put bleach on crocs soapy water

Baking Soda and Vinegar

If your shoes are in need of a deeper clean and odor removal, then this is the best choice. This combination can deep clean almost anything.

Items:

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Soft cloth
  • Toothbrush

Method:

  1. Mix one part baking soda, one part vinegar and two parts water. Mix to form a thin paste.
  2. Use a soft cloth to apply the paste to your Crocs. Apply it to every inch of them.
  3. Use a toothbrush to rub the paste in the shoe’s holes.
  4. Leave the Crocs to sit from 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Rinse them off with cold water.
  6. Let air dry.

Just as easy as the first but even more effective for when you require extra strength.

Baking soda and vinegar is a cleaning power combo

can you put crocs in the dishwasher baking soda and vinegar

Magic Eraser

If you are looking for a quick fix, look no further. This method is effective and super easy.

Items: 

  • Magic Eraser sponge
  • Bowl
  • Warm water

Method:

  1. Soak the Magic Eraser sponge in a bowl of warm water until saturated.
  2. Rub the Crocs all over with the Magic Eraser to remove any tough stains.
  3. Use the corners of the sponge to clean in between the tread ridges.
  4. Rinse the Crocs with cold water.
  5. Let air dry.

Voilà, you have magically clean Crocs, as if you’ve just bought them.

Erase the dirt like it’s magic

crocs shine magig eraser sponge mr proper

Quick Clean Wipes

If you need to clean your Crocs on the go, this is a good option. Use rubber safe wipes to wash them. While it won’t achieve a deep clean, they’ll do a good job at keeping them fresh on the go.

Wipes will keep Crocs fresh on the go

how to clean white crocs clorox clean wipes

Importance of Air Drying

It’s important to note that all types of Crocs should be left to air dry only. Exposure to heat, sun, hot cars, dryers, etc. can cause the shoe to shrink or warp. You can use a towel to wipe them off, but nothing more.

How To Clean Fur Lined Crocs?

Winter Crocs can be a blessing in the cold weather with their soft and fuzzy insides. However, that blessing may seem like a curse when it’s time to wash your shoes. Since most fur linings are not removable, you will need to gently handwash the insides as well.

Fuzzy Crocs are great at keeping your feet warm

can you put crocs in the washing machine black fuzzt crocs

Crocs say the best way to clean fur lines Crocs is with mild soap and warm water. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and see what we need to do.

Items:

  • Bowl
  • Warm water
  • Mild soap or detergent

Method:

  1. Take a bowl and fill it with warm water.
  2. Add one to two teaspoons of the mild soap or detergent. Mix it until it makes a solution.
  3. Submerge the shoes into the bowl and begin to gently massage the fur.
  4. If the water becomes too dirty, pour it out and create a new bowl of solution.
  5. Keep massaging the fur lining until you manage to remove all the dirt and debris. Make sure to not pull or scrub too hard at the lining.
  6. Rinse the Crocs and the lining with cold water until no more of the soapy solution is left.
  7. Blot the insides of the shoes with a paper towel to remove any excess water.
  8. Let the Crocs air dry.

How To Clean White Crocs?

Cleaning white shoes of any kind can seem like a hassle. However, when it comes to croc there is a simple method to return them to their once pure, white, glory.

Return the white shine of your Crocs 

how to clean crocs with fur white crocs

Bleach Soak

The bleach soak is an ideal method for an intense clean for white Crocs. Keep in mind, this type of cleaning should be done only after you’ve cleaned them prior with soapy water. Also make sure you are in a well ventilated area when using bleach.

Materials:

  • Bowl
  • Lukewarm water
  • Bleach
  • Rubber gloves

Method:

  1. Fill a large bowl with lukewarm water and add a small amount of bleach.
  2. While wearing rubber gloves, submerge the shoes into the solution.
  3. Leave them there for around two hours.
  4. Remove the Crocs from the bowl and rinse them thoroughly with cold water.

This should have gotten rid of any yellowing or stains from the shoe, leaving them a nice, fresh white color.

Bleach does wonders to bring out the white

how to clean classic lined crocs bleach on pink background

How To Clean Stinky Crocs?

This is a common issue that occurs when wearing any type of shoe, Crocs included. Even though the material they are made off is designed to be resistant to odor and inhibit bacterial growth, when wearing shoes long enough there is no way to avoid it.

So many colors to choose from

how to clean stinky crocs colorful crocs

Eventually, the Crocs start developing an unpleasant smell. But don’t worry, this can be easily fixed with a simple process that can be done after washing your Crocs. All you need once again is the champion of cleaning – baking soda. This fix also works for fur lined Crocs.

Materials:

  • Ziplock bag
  • Baking soda

Method:

  1. Lay the bag on a flat surface.
  2. Pour enough of the baking soda in the bag to create a base for your Crocs.
  3. Place the shoes in the bag and seal it.
  4. Leave them for 24 hours to allow the soda to extract all the odor.
  5. Remove the Crocs from the bag and shake away the excess baking soda.
  6. Discard of the bag and soda.

Now not only do your Crocs look great, they also smell amazing!

Get rid of nasty smells with baking soda

washing crocs spilt baking soda on table

Whether you are a casual wearer of Crocs or they are your number one go-to shoe, you probably want them to look as clean and bright as they possibly can. With this simple guide on how to clean Crocs properly, you can now confidently achieve that! All without any expensive cleaners and fancy tools.

Crocs can look very stylish

best way to clean crocs celebrites wearing crocs

John Griffith

John Griffith is a young, passionate journalist. Writing has been John’s hobby ever since he was a boy. He has worked in some of the UK’s most successful news portals over the course of his professional career but found his forever home at Archzine.