How to Wash Slippers
House Shoes
Use a cloth or baby wipe to clean the soles of the slippers to remove heavy dirt and debris. Pre-treat the stains with detergent or stain remover prior to putting into the washing machine. Put the slippers in a mesh laundry bag and wash to cool to warm water. Use the gentle wash cycle and gentle detergent. Once finished, air dry in the sun or use a blow dryer to dry.
This is How to Wash Slippers: Cotton, Synthetic, Leather, and Suede!
We wear slippers everyday, which means they tend to accumulate dirt and stains rather quickly.
Washing slippers is quick and easy as long as your know what to do and which method to use.
The most important thing to determine, is which type of material your slippers are made from.
Cotton, synthetic, leather, and suede slippers will all have different care protocols, and it is very important that you use them appropriately.
If you decide washing your slippers doesn’t fir your skill set then take them to a dry cleaners. Learn how long a dry cleaner takes.
Our article has instructions on how to wash all kinds of slippers, so continue reading to learn how!
How to Wash Slippers
Even though slippers are mostly worn around the house, they do tend to get quite dirty. Below are instructions on how to wash slippers, and the method you choose to use depends on the type of slippers you have.
Below are the instructions for:
- How to machine wash cotton and synthetic fabrics slippers
- How to hand wash cotton and synthetic fabric slippers
- How to clean leather slippers
- How to clean suede slippers
You may want to wash your clothes as the same time as your slippers, to kill two birds with one stone. I highly suggest you don’t do that, instead let our specific guides help you wash each piece with the care it deserves.
1. How to Machine Wash Cotton and Synthetic Fabric Slippers
Follow the instructions below to properly machine wash slippers made from cotton as well as synthetic fabrics.
- Use a rag, cloth, or baby wipes, to wipe down the soles of the slippers. Wipe the bottom of the slippers to remove any excess dirt and debris.
- Pre-treat stains on the exterior of the slippers by using your fingers to rub detergent or a water based stain remover into the affected areas. Let the detergent sit in the stain for 10 to 15 minutes before placing the slippers into the washing machine.
- Place the slippers into a mesh laundry bag to protect it from damaging other garments while in the wash. (Optional)
- Place the slippers into the washing machine. Try to wash them with similar fabrics and colors (whites with whites, colors with colors, darks with darks.) Washing slippers with heavier items such as towels or bathrobes usually works well.
- Add laundry detergent. Use detergent that is appropriate for the type of material your slippers are made from. Most household laundry brands have gentle detergents that can be used to wash most kinds of cotton and synthetic slippers.
- Adjust the settings and wash the slippers in cool to warm water.
- Run the gentle/delicate wash cycle (how long does a washer take?).
- Air Dry the slippers. Allow the slippers to dry in the sun or use a blow dryer to remove moisture. If you absolutely must use the dryer, use tumble dry low and take the slippers out before they are completely dry.
2. How to Hand Wash Cotton and Synthetic Fabric Slippers
Carefully follow the instructions below to hand wash your synthetic and cotton fabric slippers.
- Use a rag, cloth, or baby wipes, to wipe down the soles of the slippers. Wipe the bottom of the slippers to remove any excess dirt, debris, and grit.
- Pre-treat stains on the exterior of the slippers by using your fingers to rub detergent or a water based stain remover into the affected areas.
- Fill a container or sink with warm water.
- Add detergent to the water. Check the instructions on the detergent’s label to add the appropriate amount.
- Submerge the slippers in the water and leave them to soak for 25 to 30 minutes. This will help to lift the dirt and debris from the surface of the slippers.
- Use your hands to wash and agitate the slippers in the water. Wear gloves to protect your skin from dirt and detergent.
- Rinse the slippers under cold water until all the soap is removed and the water runs clear.
- Press or wring excess water out of the slippers. Failing to do this will result in a much longer drying time.
- Allow the slippers to air dry. You can also use a blow dryer or place the slippers in the sun to dry. If you wish to use the dryer, place them into a mesh laundry bag and run the dryer on tumble dry low or air dry.
3. How to Clean Leather Slippers
Use the 8 steps below to clean your leather slippers.
- Use a wet cloth or baby wipe to wipe the soles of the slippers in order to remove heavy dirt and debris.
- Use leather soap that is specially formulated for use on leather products. Mix the soap with warm water and dampen a soft cloth.
- Use the cloth to gently wipe down the exterior of the leader slippers.
- If the interior of the slipper is made from a special type of fur, be sure to research the cleaning methods properly, and clean separately from the leather exterior.
- Buff dry the leather exterior with a soft, clean, and absorbent cloth.
- Apply leather conditioner and carefully follow the instructions on the label until completion.
- Finishing by buffing to shine.
- Allow the leather slippers to air dry in a cool, clean place.
4. How to Clean Suede Slippers
Follow the instructions below in order to properly clean suede slippers.
- Use a damp cloth or baby wipes to wipe down the soles of the slippers. Remove any heavy dirt and debris from the bottom of the slipper.
- Spot clean grease stains by using an absorbent powder to remove them. Use baking soda, talcum powder, or cornstarch to remove stains by sprinkling on top and leaving overnight.
- To freshen the shearling-lined interior of suede slippers, add baking soda to the interior and let sit for several hours.
- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda from the slipper.
- Use a cloth damp with water to wipe down the interior of the slipper.
- Allow the slippers to air dry in a cool, dim place.
How to Wash Slippers FAQ
Slippers made from cotton or synthetic material can be put into the washing machine. Slippers made of leather or suede should not be put into the washing machine.
Slippers with rubber soles can be machine washed. You should put them into a mesh laundry bag first, to protect the other garments from damage.
Use cool to warm water, place them into a mesh laundry bag, use gentle detergent, and use the delicate wash setting. Do not put slippers made from leather or suede in the washing machine.
