Custom flip flops are an ideal casual shoe to enjoy a beautiful sunny day. Whether it’s a day at the beach or simply shopping on the boardwalk flip flops make for a comfortable shoe. In addition, they are the perfect shoe for trips to the public pool, shower or for a quick run to the store.
While flip-flops offer great comfort and flexibility wearing them dies come with its drawbacks. Like all shoes, flip-flops are susceptible to a buildup up of bacteria and dirt. However, since they are opened toed they require frequent cleaning.
What’s on the bottom of flip-flop shoes when they’re worn outside? According to research shoes can have as much as 421,000 types of bacteria present in the soles and the bottom of the shoe. Some of these bacteria include; meningitis, E. coli, diarrheal disease as well as bacteria that can be found in the bloodstream and the respiratory tract. Shoes are also covered in germs and parasites. This comes an no surprise because people wear their shoes into public bathrooms, stores and other places that are especially germ-ridden. People tend to come into more contact with bacteria than they realize on an everyday basis when they walk on different surfaces. In fact, after two weeks of wear, a new pair of shoes can accumulate nearly a half a million microbes.
The germs present on flip-flops and other types of shoes is the primary reason why many homeowners prohibit individuals from wearing shoes inside they’re home.
What’s the solution? Unfortunately, most people aren’t able to afford to purchase shoes. Most of the time keeping flip flops thoroughly clean can be highly effective.
How To Clean Flip Flops
Failure to properly clean flip-flops can make them a hub for bacteria. After all, the rubber and plastic that flip-flops are made from tend to attract bacteria the most especially the staph bacteria. Other water-loving pathogens called pseudomonas are also a magnet flip-flops.
Applying proper cleaning methods will keep these shoes free from dirt, grime and help eliminate dime if the bacteria present. Here are some tips for cleaning custom flip flops.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common household product that can be used in many different ways, it’s also an effective cleaning agent. It can be used to perform an intense cleaning of your flip-flops. Baking soda absorbs the impurities removing bacteria and dirt. It also doubles as a deodorizer which means it eliminates sweaty foot odor.
Steps For Cleaning Flip Flops with Baking Soda
- Simply start off by sprinkling the white powder over the entire surface of the flip-flops
- Allow it to sit on the shoe for up to ten.minutes
- Make a water and baking soda paste with water
- Scrub the flip-flops vigorously with an old toothbrush or cloth
- Rinse off the sandals and let them dry
Dish Soap Cleaning Method
Dish detergent is also a great cleaning aid. Yes, Dawn can get more than just your dishes clean. Using dish detergent to remove the buildup of bacteria and dirt is relatively easy.
- Create a dish soap and water mixture by adding a healthy amount of soap to a bowl and diluting it with water
- Stir to make a soapy solution
- It’s best to use a sponge to clean the flip-flops.
- Saturate the sponge or cloth in the soapy solution and scrub both sides vigorously
- Rinse and allow it to air dry
Washing Machine Method
Perhaps the easiest and quickest way to clean custom flip flops is to throw them in the washing machine when cleaning them in the washer its best to put the machine on delicate settings. Use cold water and a detergent to remove the dirt from the shoes. The flip-flops shouldn’t be thrown in the washer with other clothing. Avoid placing them in the dryer and allow them to air dry instead.
Vinegar Mixture
Vinegar is a great cleaning agent that deodorizes and can remove bacteria from any surface. Vinegar contains acid which is able to neutralize odors when it comes in contact with odor molecules. When using this method you’ll have to mix Vinegar and water in a bowl. Using a clean cloth, dip the cloth into the mixture and wipe down all sides of the flip-flop.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are effective at removing foul odors from flip-flops. Don’t throw away old coffee beans instead they can be stored in an empty bag along with a pair of flip-flops that need to be deodorized. Make a habit of storing flip-flops in the coffee bean grounds to ensure that they are always fresh.
Maintaining Suede Flip Flops
How can buyers ensure that they’re suede flip flops stay in top-notch condition? Suede soles can wear out over time. The best way to clean them and keep them fresh is to use sandpaper. Rub the fine grit sandpaper gently over the surface of the suede flip-flops. This will lift dirt from the sandal. However, the insoles can be cleaned using dish soap or a mild detergent with a toothbrush.
Maintaining Leather Flip Flops
Keeping leather flip flops in good condition can be a challenge. Saddle soap is good leather cleaner that banishes smells and softens leather at the same time. If the leather has been treated a vinegar mixture can be applied to the leather flip flop.
Additional Maintenance Tips
- Keep a fabric softener in flip-flops overnight to ensure that they are fresh to wear in the morning.
- A drop of cedar wood or another type of essential oil every day is a great way to keep flip-flops smelling good.
- Use foot powder in extreme circumstances to eliminate foul odors that won’t go away
- Avoid wearing the same flip flops every day
Whether it’s a day at the beach or out running errands, having clean, fresh and well-maintained flip-flops will ensure that the flip-flops are ready to take on the day. Use these tips outlined in this article to remove bacteria and dirt from custom flip-flops so that they last for many summers to come.