Flip flops and rubber sandals are the workhorses of Australian summers. They handle beach sand, pool decks, backyard barbecues, and quick trips to the shops. But all that use means they can quickly become dirty, smelly, and worn-looking. The good news is that rubber and synthetic sandals are among the easiest footwear to clean. With simple household supplies, you can keep your thongs fresh and extend their useful life.
Regular Quick Cleaning
The easiest way to maintain flip flops is frequent light cleaning. This prevents dirt and odour from building up to the point of needing intensive treatment.
After Each Wear
- Knock off loose sand and dirt
- Wipe with a damp cloth if visibly dirty
- Allow to air dry before storing
Weekly Maintenance
- Rinse under running water to remove surface dirt
- Wipe footbed with a cloth dampened with soapy water
- Rinse thoroughly
- Let dry completely in a ventilated area
After beach visits, rinse flip flops with fresh water to remove salt and sand. Salt water accelerates material degradation and sand trapped in grooves can be abrasive.
Deep Cleaning Methods
When regular cleaning isn't enough, try these thorough methods:
Soap and Water Scrub
The most reliable method for most rubber and synthetic sandals:
- Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap or mild laundry detergent
- Submerge the flip flops and let soak for 10-15 minutes
- Scrub with a brush – an old toothbrush works well for grooves and toe posts
- Pay attention to footbeds where body oils and dead skin accumulate
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Air dry completely before wearing
Baking Soda Paste
For stubborn stains and odour:
- Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste
- Apply paste to the footbed and straps
- Let sit for 15-20 minutes
- Scrub with a brush
- Rinse thoroughly
White Vinegar Solution
Excellent for odour elimination:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
- Soak flip flops for 30 minutes
- Scrub if needed
- Rinse with clean water
- Air dry (vinegar smell dissipates as they dry)
- Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
- Old toothbrush or soft scrub brush
- Baking soda for tough stains
- White vinegar for odour
- Clean cloths
- Basin or bucket
Tackling Common Problems
Eliminating Odour
Smelly flip flops are often caused by bacteria thriving in sweat-soaked footbeds. Beyond vinegar soaks:
- Sunlight: UV rays kill bacteria. Leave clean flip flops in direct sunlight for a few hours (but don't overdo it as UV degrades rubber)
- Baking soda: Sprinkle on footbeds overnight, shake off in the morning
- Tea tree oil: Add a few drops to cleaning water for natural antibacterial action
- Freeze them: Sealing flip flops in a plastic bag and freezing overnight kills odour-causing bacteria
Removing Stains
- Dirt and mud: Let dry completely, then brush off before washing
- Grass stains: Rub with baking soda paste, let sit, then scrub
- Sunscreen residue: Dish soap cuts through oil-based residues
- Foot marks: Baking soda paste or a magic eraser can remove dark footprints from footbeds
Restoring Faded Colours
UV exposure fades coloured rubber over time. While you can't reverse fading, you can:
- Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly for temporary shine
- Use rubber protectant spray designed for automotive use
- Accept the patina as a badge of summer adventures
Don't put rubber flip flops in the washing machine or dryer – the heat and agitation can warp them. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach on coloured sandals, and don't leave them in hot cars where they can deform.
Brand-Specific Considerations
Havaianas and Brazilian Rubber
Brazilian rubber flip flops are durable and water-resistant. They clean easily with soap and water and handle occasional rough scrubbing. The rubber is quite resilient but can crack if left in extreme heat for extended periods.
Reef and Padded Footbeds
Some Reef sandals have padded footbeds that absorb more moisture. Give these extra drying time and consider using baking soda treatments more frequently for odour prevention.
Sport Sandals with Fabric Straps
If your sandals have fabric straps, pay extra attention to cleaning and drying these components. Fabric can harbour bacteria and develop mildew if stored damp.
Extending Flip Flop Life
Beyond cleaning, these practices help your flip flops last longer:
- Rotate pairs: Alternating between multiple pairs allows each to dry fully between wears
- Store properly: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use
- Wear appropriately: Avoid wearing thin flip flops on rough surfaces they're not designed for
- Fix minor issues: Secure loose toe posts with glue before they completely detach
- Know when to replace: Worn-through soles, permanently stretched straps, or footbeds that won't clean are signs it's time for new pairs
When to Give Up
Even the best-maintained flip flops eventually need replacing. Signs it's time include:
- Sole worn thin, especially at the heel
- Toe post pulling through the sole
- Straps cracking or losing elasticity
- Footbed permanently compressed and flat
- Persistent odour despite thorough cleaning
- Material becoming brittle and cracking
Most rubber flip flops last one to three summers of regular use. Given their affordable price point, there's no shame in replacing worn pairs rather than fighting to revive them. Fresh flip flops provide better support, grip, and hygiene than exhausted ones clinging to life.
Regular cleaning and sensible care extend the life of your flip flops while keeping your feet healthier and happier. A few minutes of maintenance after heavy use is all it takes to keep your summer footwear fresh and functional.