Let’s set the scene: you’re walking along the beach, salty breeze in your hair, sand between your toes, and suddenly—you catch a whiff of something… not great. You look down and realize it’s you. Well, your flip flops, to be fair.
Yep, those once-fresh summer essentials have turned into tiny odor factories. Gross.
But don’t worry—we’ve been there. We live in flip flops, so trust us when we say: stinky sandals are totally fixable. Here’s how to deep clean your flip flops (and keep them smelling like a tropical breeze instead of a forgotten gym bag).
Step 1: Throw Them a Bubble Party (aka Washing Machine)
If your flip flops are classic rubber or foam (we’re taking your Old Navy specials, poolside pairs, or beach day basics), go ahead and toss them in the washing machine. They’ll thank you for the spa day.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Set your washer to delicate and cold water.
- Add a splash of detergent and a cup of white vinegar (nature’s stink assassin).
- No need for a spin cycle—air drying is the name of the game.
- Lay them out in the sun and let nature do its things.
Pro tip: This method is great for when your whole family’s flip flops smell like wet socks after a beach trip. Wash them all at once. Instant refreshments.
Step 2: The Baking Soda Glow-Up
If machine-washing feels too risky—or your flip flops still reek after Round One—bring out the big guns: baking soda.
Because honestly, is there anything baking soda can’t do?
The Quick Fix:
- Rinse your flip flops in warm water.
- Sprinkle on baking soda like you’re seasoning curly fries.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Grab an old toothbrush and scrub like you’re polishing a diamond.
- Rinse, pat dry, air out.
They’ll come out cleaner, brighter, and smell more beach vacation and a lot less bus stops.
Still funky?
Make a paste with baking soda and salt water. Slather it on like a DIY face mask for your shoes. Wait 10 minutes. Scrub. Rinse. Done.
Got Leather? Let’s Not Ruin It.
If you’ve got fancy leather flip flops (or at least ones that pretend to be), don’t go tossing them in the washer or hosing them down. Leather is a diva. She needs to pamper.
- Use a damp microfiber cloth with saddle soap to clean and soften.
- Let it sit, then gently buff dry with a clean cloth.
- To tackle odor, sprinkle a little baking soda inside and leave it overnight.
Bonus: Stuff them with newspaper when not in use. It absorbs sweat and keeps everything smelling like not feet.
Suede Insoles? Be Gentle, Darling.
Suede might look tough, but it’s basically the flip flop version of a drama queen. It needs a softer touch.
- Use fine-grit sandpaper to lift built-up grime.
- Or mix gentle dish soap with warm water and use a toothbrush to scrub carefully.
- Air dry in sunlight—sunshine is suede’s best friend (and nature’s disinfectant).
The “Don’t Stink Again” Plan
So you cleaned your flip flops. Amazing. But let’s keep that fresh vibe going.
Here’s how to stop the funk before it starts:
- Pop a dryer sheet in each one and store in a plastic bag overnight.
- Add a drop of cedarwood or sandalwood essential oil to each sole occasionally.
- Rotate pairs. Your flip flops need rest days too.
- Keep a little stash of baking soda in your shoe storage—just in case.
Let’s Recap
Your flip flops don’t have to smell like a locker room at high noon. A little care, a little baking soda magic, and you’re back to smelling like coconuts and clean air.
So, the next time your flip flops start sending out SOS signals, you’ll know exactly what to do. And now your feet are as fresh as your beach plans.
It’s time to Do Life Right!
Check out the best flip flop reviews, flip flop advice and flip flop philosophy on how to live a flip flop life!
