Foul-smelling flip-flops are a common menace during summer. Flip-flops tend to smell, especially if you wear them for long days or even weeks without washing.
If you want to get rid of the foul flip-flops smell with an eco-friendly product, try baking soda.
To clean and deodorize your flip-flops, just drop them in a basin with water and baking soda. Allow them to soak for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing the grime away with a soft brush. Finally, rinse and dry thoroughly.
A detailed step-by-step guide is provided below. Give it a try.
Soak and Brush Method
What You’ll Need:
Baking soda
Basin
Soft brush
Water
Paper towels
Steps:
1. In a basin, combine 1-2 cups baking soda and water.
2. Soak your stinky rubber flip-flops for 15-20 minutes in the solution. Make sure the flip-flops are turned face down.
3. Take the flip-flops out of the basin and begin brushing away any visible dirt.
4. Rinse the slippers under running water. Make sure that all traces of baking soda have been removed.
5. Pat dry with a paper towel.
For Super Dirty and Smelly Flip-flops, Brush with Baking Soda Paste
If soaking and brushing with the baking soda solution was not enough to remove the funk from your flip-flops, try cleaning them using baking soda paste.
What You’ll Need:
Baking soda
Bowl
Water
Soft brush
Paper towels
Tablespoon
Steps:
1. Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of water in a bowl. Mix well to create a paste.
2. Brush both sides of your flip-flops with the baking soda paste. Focus on the really dirty parts.
3. Rinse with water. Make sure you remove all traces of the baking soda paste.
4. Wipe with paper towels and hang dry.
What Causes rubber slippers to smell, and why is it stinky?
A pair of rubber slippers can acquire a bad smell, and sometimes, people believe it is the result of a wet dog accidentally stepping inside the slippers (No, it’s not Fido’s fault).
But the true culprit is bacteria that develop from sweat and dirt that get trapped in the slippers.
Bacteria prefer moist environments. They can quickly multiply on your flip-flops.
Why Baking Soda Works Like Magic for Cleaning Flip-Flops
Baking soda is a mild abrasive as well as a natural deodorizer.
As a result, you get cleaning and deodorizing power in a single environmentally friendly package.
How Often Should I Clean Slippers to Avoid Stink?
When odors or dirt are detected, flip-flops should be cleaned immediately.
When you use them every day, clean them every two weeks, especially during the summer when you sweat more than usual.
At the very least, they should be cleaned once a month.
Other Methods for Cleaning and Deodorizing Smelly Rubber Flip-Flops
Here are some other methods you could try for cleaning and deodorizing your flip-flops:
Vinegar Method
- Gather your materials: You will need white vinegar, water, and a bowl or bucket to soak your flip-flops in.
- Mix your cleaning solution: Mix 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts water in the bowl or bucket.
- Soak your flip-flops: Place your rubber flip-flops in the bowl or bucket of cleaning solution, making sure they are fully submerged. Let them soak for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse your flip-flops: After soaking, remove the flip-flops from the cleaning solution and rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
- Air dry your flip-flops: Set your flip-flops aside to air dry completely before wearing them again.
Hydrogen Peroxide Method
- Gather your materials: You will need hydrogen peroxide, water, and a bowl or bucket to soak your flip-flops in.
- Mix your cleaning solution: Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 4 parts water in the bowl or bucket.
- Soak your flip-flops: Place your rubber flip-flops in the bowl or bucket of cleaning solution, making sure they are fully submerged. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse your flip-flops: After soaking, remove the flip-flops from the cleaning solution and rinse them thoroughly with fresh water.
- Air dry your flip-flops: Set your flip-flops aside to air dry completely before wearing them again.
Note: Be sure to follow any additional instructions on the cleaning product label and wear protective gloves if needed.
5 Tips to Prevent Rubber Flip-Flops From Getting Smelly
- Wash your feet regularly, especially after sweating or walking around with bare feet.
- Allow your flip-flops to dry thoroughly between wears, and avoid wearing them for extended periods.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks or insoles to help absorb sweat.
- Rotate between different pairs of flip-flops to give them time to air out and dry.
- Store your flip-flops in a well-ventilated area to prevent moisture buildup.
Conclusion:
Simple natural products, such as baking soda, can often do a better job of removing odors than toxic artificial cleaners. Cleaning with it regularly can help keep your flip-flops clean and odor-free.
If you want to learn more about cleaning with baking soda, check out my article on how to clean makeup brushes with baking soda.
I hope you found this article helpful.
Thank you for visiting my blog.
-Baking Soda Guy
