Crocs are a popular choice for comfortable footwear, and naturally, they get dirty over time. The primary question that arises when thinking about cleaning them is, can you wash Crocs in the washing machine?
The answer: YES, you can wash Crocs in the washing machine!
But there are certain precautions and methods you need to be followed to ensure your Crocs don’t get damaged or warped in the washing machine.
Depending on the type of Crocs you have, the specific approach you take to clean them might vary. For instance, lined Crocs have different washing requirements than the unlined ones.
This article will explore the different techniques for washing your Crocs in the machine and the key factors to consider before doing so.
In This Article
Can You Wash Crocs in The Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash certain types of Crocs in the washing machine.
For instance, classic clogs, slides, and styles made only of Croslite can be washed on a gentle cycle without damaging the footwear or the appliance. However, Crocs with fur or canvas materials should be handled differently.
To ensure your Crocs stay in good condition, it’s important to follow proper washing and drying procedures.
- Before putting your Crocs in the washer, it’s a good idea to loosen dirt from the shoes and clean the soles and laces separately.
- Optionally, you can place the Crocs in a mesh bag for shoes to provide additional protection during the wash.
- When selecting the settings on your washing machine, opt for a gentle cycle with cold water, and use a mild color-safe laundry detergent.
- After washing, avoid exposing your Crocs to high heat or direct sunlight for drying. Extreme heat can warp the foam material or loosen the glue that holds the soles in place (The Spruce).
- Instead, use a microfiber cloth to remove excess water and allow your Crocs to air-dry in a well-ventilated area.
When it comes to washing furry Crocs, check out this video for washing tips:
Preparation and Precautions
Before you wash Crocs in the washing machine, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions and prepare the shoes properly. In this section, we will cover removing accessories, pre-treating stains, and protecting other laundry items during the wash.
Step 1. Removing Accessories
Prior to washing your Crocs, make sure to remove any accessories such as Jibbitz charms or laces. Detachable components can become damaged or cause damage to your shoes if not removed.
Step 2. Pre-Treating Stains
Spot clean any stubborn stains on your Crocs using mild soap and water before placing them in the washing machine. This can help ensure a thorough clean and prevent set-in stains from becoming permanent.
Step 3. Protecting Other Laundry Items
To protect delicate fabrics and prevent your Crocs from causing damage to other laundry items, place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This will also prevent any loose accessories from being misplaced during the wash cycle.
| Preparation Step | Instructions |
| Removing Accessories | Detach Jibbitz charms, laces, and other removable items from the Crocs. |
| Pre-Treating Stains | Spot clean stubborn stains using mild soap and water. |
| Protecting Other Laundry Items | Place Crocs in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent damage to other items in the wash. |
Washing Machine Settings for Crocs
When washing your Crocs in a washing machine, it’s important to use the correct settings to ensure the shoes remain in good condition. Follow these guidelines for washing your Crocs:
1. Water Temperature
Select cold water when washing your Crocs to avoid any possible shrinkage or damage to the material. Washing Crocs in cold water will help maintain the integrity of the shoe’s shape and prevent any unwanted changes to the fit or comfort.
Some people do choose to use the highest temperature setting, assuming it will better clean their shoes. However, this method is not recommended as it may damage the Crocs.
2. Cycle Selection
Choose a gentle cycle to wash your Crocs. This will ensure that the shoes are not subjected to any unnecessary or harsh agitation, which could potentially cause damage or wear to the material.
A gentler cycle combined with cold water will provide an adequate cleaning for your Crocs.
3. Detergent and Additives
When it comes to selecting a detergent, use a mild laundry detergent, formulated for delicate materials or cold water washes. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or bleach as these can damage the Crocs or cause discoloration. Moreover, do not use fabric softeners, as they can negatively impact the Croslite material used in the shoes.
Drying Process for Crocs
Now that your Crocs have been properly washed, the next step is to get them completely dry. This section will discuss two sub-sections – Air Drying and Avoiding High Heat.
1. Air Drying
It is essential to air dry your Crocs after washing them in the washing machine. Allow them to air-dry away from direct sunlight or forced-air heaters. Place them in a well-ventilated area where air can circulate around them. Adding a circulating fan near the shoes can also help to speed up the drying process.
Do not attempt to dry the Crocs using a dryer. The heat from the dryer can damage the material, causing them to lose their shape or become uncomfortable to wear.
2. Avoid High Heat
Keep Crocs away from excessive heat sources, such as radiators or leaving them in a hot car, as they can cause the material to warp or even shrink. If you feel the need to use a heat source to speed up the drying process, take extra precautions to use the lowest setting possible and keep your Crocs a safe distance from the heat source.
However, air drying is still the preferred method for maintaining the integrity of your Crocs.
Alternative Cleaning Methods for Crocs
Sure, you can wash Crocs in the washing machine, but you can also clean them using alternative methods such as hand washing and spot cleaning. These methods may be more appropriate for specific situations where machine washing is not recommended or possible.
1. Hand Washing
Hand washing your Crocs is an excellent way to gently remove dirt and grime.
- Fill a sink or basin with cold water and add a few drops of mild soap.
- Place your Crocs in the soapy water and use your hands or a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the shoes.
- Rinse your Crocs thoroughly under cold running water to remove soap residue.
- Allow your Crocs to air dry, as exposure to heat can damage the material.
2. Spot Cleaning
If your Crocs have small stains or heavily-soiled areas, spot cleaning them may be the best option.
- Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild soap.
- Dip a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled brush into the soapy solution and wring it out until just damp.
- Gently scrub the stained area of your Crocs using the damp cloth or brush.
- Rinse the cleaned area with cold water to remove any soap residue.
- Allow your Crocs to air dry after spot cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
One method of safely washing them is by submerging the entire Croc into a bowl of soapy water, gently washing the whole area, and then replacing the water if it becomes dirty. Make sure to use a gentle cycle and cold water setting in the washing machine to preserve the fur. Additionally, place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect the fur.
Washing them by hand with mild soap can prolong their life and prevent damage from machine washing.
When using a washing machine, select a gentle cycle with a 20-30 degrees Celsius setting to preserve the integrity of the shoes.
Final Thoughts on Can You Wash Crocs in The Washing Machine
In summary, when it comes to whether or not you can wash Crocs in the washing machine, the answer is yes. But it is essential to follow specific guidelines for the best results and to maintain your Crocs’ quality.
To wash Crocs in the washing machine effectively, use a gentle cycle and a temperature range between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. If your Crocs are particularly dirty, you can use hot water and a laundry bag or mesh laundry bag for added protection.
It’s essential to remember that Crocs are made from a material called Croslite, which can be sensitive to high temperatures. Therefore, always opt for cold water when cleaning Crocs, especially those with fur linings or delicate designs. Doing so will help extend the utility and durability of your Crocs.
In closing, with proper care, your Crocs can maintain their comfort, durability, and shape. By following the right washing guidelines, you can keep your Crocs looking clean and fresh without affecting their longevity or compromising their signature comfort.
Ken Lyons is one of the founding members of Cleaner Digs. He is also the senior editor and contributing author. Ken has owned and operated two cleaning companies in the past: one commercial and one that serviced residential customers. He writes for Clean Digs to share his professional expertise on cleaning and organization. He's been a fastidious cleaning nut and writing about it for more than a decade.
