Cleaning and caring for sandals properly extends their lifespan by years and keeps them looking fresh. Most people either skip maintenance entirely or use methods that damage the material dishwasher cycles, direct sunlight drying, or cramped storage. The right approach takes about 15 minutes, uses household basics, and works whether your sandals are leather, rubber, fabric, or a mix.
What You’ll Need
You likely have everything already:
- Soft brush (old toothbrush works fine)
- Mild soap or dish detergent
- Lukewarm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Newspaper or cotton towels
- Baking soda (optional, for odor)
- Shoe tree or rolled newspaper (optional, for storage)
Do NOT use bleach, acetone, harsh scrubbers, or heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight.
How to Clean Sandals: Step by Step
Step 1: Brush Away Loose Debris
Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to remove dust, dirt, and sand from the upper, sole, and straps. Work gently in one direction. This takes 1–2 minutes and prevents grit from becoming embedded when you wet the sandal.
Step 2: Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Fill a bowl with lukewarm water (not hot) and add a small squirt of mild dish soap or laundry detergent. Stir gently. You want barely visible suds not a bubble bath. Hot water can warp rubber soles and fade colors; cold water won’t clean as effectively.
Step 3: Soak and Scrub the Straps
Dip your soft cloth or sponge into the solution and wipe down all straps, the toe post, and the upper. Pay extra attention to creases and seams where dirt hides. For stubborn marks, dip the soft brush in the solution and gently scrub in circular motions. Rinse each section under cool running water immediately after scrubbing.
Step 4: Clean the Sole and Footbed
Dip the brush in the soapy water and scrub the sole with medium pressure this is where most dirt builds up. For the footbed (the inside where your foot sits), use the cloth or a gentle brush stroke to avoid damaging cushioning. Rinse thoroughly under running water until no soap residue remains.
Step 5: Final Rinse
Hold the sandal under cool running water and wipe with a clean cloth to remove all soap. Shake off excess water gently. Any remaining soap will leave a film and can fade colors.
Step 6: Dry Correctly
This is where most people go wrong. Never use direct heat, a dryer, or sunlight. Instead:
- Stuff the insides loosely with newspaper or paper towels (replace after 2–3 hours if they become damp)
- Place the sandals in a warm, dry room with airflow a bathroom counter, a kitchen counter, or a garage
- Let them air dry completely (4–8 hours or overnight)
- Do not wear them until completely dry; wearing damp sandals invites mold and bacteria
If your sandals have odor, sprinkle a little baking soda inside and leave overnight before shaking it out.
Storage: The Step Nobody Explains
Store sandals in a cool, dry place in their original box or a breathable container. Heat and humidity are the enemies they cause glue to fail, materials to warp, and mold to grow.
- Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture
- Keep them away from radiators, vents, and direct sunlight
- Use a shoe tree or stuff with newspaper to help them hold their shape
- Store in pairs with the right and left together
- If sandals are leather or suede, consider applying a light conditioner (check the brand’s care label first) once or twice per season
If you’re storing them long-term (a season or more), check them every month or two to make sure no moisture has accumulated inside the box.
The Mistake Everyone Makes
Most people think sandals need harsh treatment: a quick rinse under the sink, or worse, a spin in the dishwasher or washing machine. This strips protective finishes, warps rubber, and loosens glued seams. The gentle approach a soft brush, mild soap, and air drying works faster and better.
Another common error: stuffing damp sandals in a closet or bag to dry later. Even a few hours of trapping moisture invites mold and mildew, especially in warm climates. Dry them completely in the open air first.
When NOT to Do This (And What to Do Instead)
- If the sandal is wet from the ocean: Rinse under fresh water immediately to remove salt, which corrodes glues and materials. Then follow the cleaning steps above.
- If straps are broken or peeling: Cleaning won’t fix structural damage. Take them to a cobbler or check if the brand offers repair service.
- If mold is already visible inside: Wipe the interior with a cloth dampened in white vinegar (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water), let dry in a ventilated spot briefly, and store in a ventilated area going forward. (Skip direct sunlight for any sandal with dyed fabric or glued components UV can fade colors and weaken adhesives.)
- If the footbed is falling apart: Replacement insoles or professional repair are your options cleaning won’t restore the cushioning.
FAQ
Can I use a magic eraser or bleach to remove stains?
No to both. Magic erasers are made from melamine foam, which is abrasive enough to permanently scuff finished leather, synthetic coatings, and dyed fabrics you’ll trade a stain for a dull scratch. Bleach fades color and can weaken fabric and adhesives over time. Stick to mild soap and a soft brush. For stubborn stains, gently rub with a cloth dampened in white vinegar, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.
How often should I clean my sandals?
If you wear them regularly (several times a week), a quick brush-down every 1–2 weeks keeps buildup at bay. A full wash once a month is reasonable for everyday sandals. Less-worn sandals may only need cleaning when visibly dirty.
Can I put sandals in the washing machine or dishwasher?
No. High temperatures, detergent concentration, and agitation damage glues, warp soles, and fade colors. Always hand-clean. The brief effort protects your investment.
How do I remove odor from sandals?
After cleaning and drying, sprinkle baking soda inside and let sit overnight. Shake it out in the morning. You can also spray the insides lightly with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution, let dry completely in a well-ventilated space, and follow with baking soda. This works for sandals made of any material as long as you allow full drying time.
What’s the lifespan of well-maintained sandals?
Based on typical owner reports, well-maintained sandals tend to last 2–5 years before soles wear down or glues fail though that range shifts significantly with material quality and how often you wear them. Leather and quality rubber tend to age better than cheap synthetics. Routine care extends that window noticeably.
Pro Tips for Maximum Lifespan
- Rotate between two pairs if you wear sandals daily; this gives each pair time to rest and dry completely between wears
- After beach or pool trips, rinse in fresh water immediately and dry thoroughly salt and chlorine degrade materials and adhesives
- If you live in a humid climate, store with a packet of silica gel in the box to absorb excess moisture
- Check the brand’s care label or website; some sandals have specific instructions (e.g., premium leather may need a conditioner)
- Replace worn insoles if they’re removable; this can extend the usable life significantly
Proper sandal maintenance is one of the easiest ways to keep your favorite pair looking good and functioning well. Fifteen minutes of care a few times a season is all it takes and it’s almost always worth it.
