Can You Put Crocs in the Washing Machine?

Crocs are comfortable, lightweight, and perfect for everyday wear. They have been a popular footwear option for many years now, and you probably own a pair or two—or even more. 

But what do you do when your favorite pair of Crocs gets dirty or smelly? Can you put them in the washing machine, or should you just throw them away? We’ll answer all your Croc washing questions and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to wash your Crocs properly.

Can you wash your Crocs in the washing machine?

First, let’s answer the question, can you put Crocs in the washing machine? The short answer is yes, you can. 

While Crocs may look like rubber, the shoes are actually made of a resin-like material called Croslite, which is very durable and easy to clean. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you toss your Crocs in the washer.

If you have fancier Crocs, such as those made from suede or leather or the ones with soft, fuzzy linings, skip to the end of this article because you should not wash your Crocs in the washing machine. That type of washing can damage and warp softer materials and cause them to lose their shape.

How to wash your Crocs in the washing machine

Before washing

First, remove any large, visible dirt or debris from the Crocs by using a soft brush or cloth. You can also rinse them under running water to get rid of any surface-level dirt. Make sure you clean both the inside and outside of the shoes thoroughly.

Next, be sure to wash your crocs on their own. Do not mix them with any other items, as the Crocs can become damaged by other clothing, especially harsher materials like denim or hard elements like zippers or buckles. 

Speaking of damaging elements, make sure to remove any charms or accessories from your Crocs before washing them. While the charms give your Crocs a bit of personal flair, they can come loose and get lost or damaged during the wash cycle. So be sure to remove them before washing and set them aside. You can wash the charms separately by hand or using a gentle washcloth or toothbrush.

Use a mesh bag and gentle cycle

Place your Crocs in a mesh laundry bag before putting them in the washing machine. This will prevent them from being battered during the spin cycle and help protect the shape of your Crocs. The friction during the spin cycle can damage the Crocs, so use a light spin cycle, or better yet, no spin cycle. 

Make sure to use a mild detergent and set the washing machine on a delicate or gentle cycle. Ideally, the cycle should be less than an hour. Again, remember to set the washer to a low- or no-spin speed, and make sure the water temperature is below 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Add vinegar to disinfect

Do not use bleach, as it can damage the Croslite material and cause discoloration. If you want to help get rid of any odor or stubborn stains or add an extra layer of disinfection, you can add some white vinegar to the fabric softener slot of your washing machine. 

The acids in the white vinegar are great at eliminating odors and tough stains. Make sure that you always wash your Crocs in a cold wash. Temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can melt or warp the comfy Croslite material.

Air dry naturally

After the wash cycle is complete, remove the Crocs from the washing machine and let them air dry. Do not tumble dry your Crocs, dry them with a hairdryer, or place them in direct sunlight, as the heat from all of these methods can melt or warp your Crocs. Make sure you keep them away from active heat sources like radiators or space heaters, as those can also warp the material.

Let your Crocs air dry outside in a shaded area or inside on a towel at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry to put your Crocs back in sport mode and zip around town, you can dry them using a small, soft hand towel.

Tips for stubborn stains

But what if your Crocs have some tough stains or odors that won’t go away, even after washing? In that case, you can try some additional steps to clean your Crocs. Mix equal parts baking soda and plain water to form a paste and apply it to the affected areas of the shoes. Let it sit for a few hours, and then rinse the mixture off with water. Alternatively, you can use a mix of warm water and vinegar to get rid of any undesirable odor.

For the fancier Crocs connoisseur

If you have crocs that are made from a more delicate material like suede, leather, or soft, fuzzy linings, then you’ll need to use the following alternative methods to wash your Crocs:

For suede Crocs, use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any dirt or stains. You can also try using a suede cleaner specifically designed for this material.

As for leather Crocs, you’ll need to be extra careful while cleaning them. Use a damp, soft cloth and gentle soap to wipe down the surface of the shoes. Avoid submerging them in water or using any harsh chemicals.

For Crocs with fuzzy linings, use a lint roller to remove any large chunks of debris or dirt. You can remove the linings and wash them in the washing machine using the above methods. 

To clean the lining itself, simply dip a cloth in warm water and mild soap and gently wipe down the linings of your Crocs. Make sure to let them air dry completely before wearing them again.

Final thoughts

Crocs can be easily cleaned and washed using the washing machine if you follow the right steps. Just remember to clean off any dirt or debris, use a mild detergent, and protect the shoes by placing them in a mesh laundry bag. 

Avoid using bleach in the wash and heat sources for drying. Don’t use hot water or a fast spin cycle.

By following the simple tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your Crocs looking and smelling fresh for a long time. So, don’t hesitate to wash your Crocs and give them a new lease on life.