How to Care for Reef Sandals and Flip Flops

What Reef sandals are made of

Reef sandals and flip flops typically combine a synthetic footbed, often with a contoured or cushioned design, and straps made from either synthetic materials or leather. Some models include a soft toe post and a rubber outsole. Knowing which materials your pair uses matters because cleaning and protection steps differ.

The footbed is the part that touches your foot all day. It absorbs sweat and oils from your skin, and it collects dust and sand. The straps, especially leather ones, need different care than synthetic webbing. Check the label or the maker's product page to confirm whether your straps are leather, synthetic, or a blend.

Daily cleaning routine

The simplest way to keep Reef sandals fresh is to rinse them after each wear, especially if you have been at the beach, pool, or anywhere sandy. Sand acts like fine grit: it can scratch the footbed and wear down the straps over time. Rinse both sandals under lukewarm running water to remove loose sand and salt. Salt crystals, if left to dry, can dry out leather and leave white residue on synthetic materials.

After rinsing, use a soft cloth or sponge with a few drops of mild dish soap or a gentle shoe cleaner. Wipe the entire footbed, the straps, and the toe post. For the outsole, use an old toothbrush to scrub the tread grooves where pebbles and sand hide. Rinse again with clean water and pat dry with a towel. Avoid soaking leather straps for long periods; for leather, dampen the cloth rather than submerging the sandal.

• Rinse off sand and salt right after wearing.
• Wipe footbed and straps with mild soap and water.
• Scrub outsole treads with a soft brush.
• Rinse and pat dry; never leave wet in a bag.

Deep cleaning the footbed

Over time, the footbed can develop a dark, slick film from body oils and sweat. This film also traps odor. A deeper clean every few weeks helps. Mix a small amount of mild soap in lukewarm water, dip a soft brush or cloth, and gently scrub the footbed in circular motions. Focus on the heel area and the ball of the foot, where oils collect most.

For stubborn stains or odor, you can make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the footbed, let it sit briefly, then scrub and rinse. Baking soda is a mild abrasive and a natural deodorizer. The American Podiatric Medical Association notes that keeping feet clean and dry is important for foot health, and the same applies to the surfaces your feet touch all day. A clean footbed also helps prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. For more on odor control, see Shoe Odor Control.

Caring for leather straps

Leather straps give Reef sandals a dressier look, but they need more attention than synthetic webbing. Leather is a natural material that can dry out, crack, and stain if neglected. After cleaning with a damp cloth, apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple. Use a product made for shoes or sandals, and follow the instructions on the label. Conditioner also adds a layer of protection against water and salt.

If your leather straps get wet, let them air dry naturally away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never use a hair dryer or place them on a radiator; heat accelerates cracking. For deeper care, including how to handle scuffs and stains, see Leather Shoe Care. If you have suede straps, use a suede brush and a protector spray instead of conditioner; the care is different, as covered in Suede and Nubuck Care.

Drying and storing your sandals

How you dry and store Reef sandals affects how long they last. After washing, shake off excess water and place them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sun and heat. Direct sunlight can fade colors and make some synthetic materials brittle. Do not store them in a sealed plastic bag while damp; that invites mold and mildew, which can damage both footbed and straps.

For storage between seasons, clean and fully dry the sandals first. Store them in a cool, dry place, ideally in a cloth bag or a box with ventilation. Avoid piling heavy shoes on top of them, which can deform the footbed. For more on storing summer footwear, see How to Store Summer Sandals for Winter.

Managing odor and hygiene

Sandals are worn barefoot, so they absorb sweat and skin cells, which can lead to odor. The best prevention is to let them dry completely between wears. Rotating between two pairs gives each pair time to air out. If odor develops, sprinkle baking soda inside the footbed and let it sit overnight, then brush it off. You can also wipe the footbed with a diluted vinegar solution, which helps neutralize odors, but rinse thoroughly afterward so the vinegar smell does not linger.

Keeping the sandals clean is also a matter of foot health. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons' patient education resources emphasize that good foot hygiene helps prevent skin irritation and infections. Wearing clean sandals on clean, dry feet reduces the chance of blisters and fungal issues. For a deeper dive on keeping shoes fresh, see How to Deodorize Shoes with Baking Soda.

When to replace your Reef sandals

Even with good care, sandals wear out. The outsole tread can smooth down, reducing grip on wet surfaces. The footbed can lose its cushioning and support, which matters if you wear them for long walks. The toe post can stretch or break, and leather straps can crack despite conditioning. Replace your sandals when the outsole is worn smooth, the footbed feels flat, or the straps no longer hold your foot securely.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health points out that slips and falls are a major workplace hazard, and the same logic applies at home or at the beach. A worn-out sandal with little tread is more likely to slip. If you are shopping for a new pair, see Best Reef Shoes in 2026 for current options, or Best Sandals in 2026 for a broader selection.

What to do based on how you wear your Reef sandals

Questions

Can I put Reef sandals in the washing machine?

Machine washing can damage the footbed, loosen the straps, and warp the toe post. Hand washing with mild soap and water is safer and just as effective.

How do I remove salt stains from leather Reef sandals?

Wipe with a damp cloth to dissolve the salt, let dry, then apply a leather conditioner. Avoid using excess water, which can drive salt deeper into the leather.

Why do my Reef sandals smell even after cleaning?

Odor can persist if the footbed absorbs oils and sweat over time. Use a baking soda paste, let it sit, then rinse. Also make sure the sandals dry completely before storing.

How often should I condition leather straps?

Once every few weeks during regular wear is a good rhythm, or whenever the leather looks dry. More frequent conditioning may be needed if you wear them in salt water or sun.

Can I wear Reef sandals in water?

Most Reef styles are made for water and dry quickly. Leather versions are not ideal for prolonged submersion. Rinse after saltwater use to protect both footbed and straps.

How long should a pair of Reef sandals last?

With regular care and rotation, a pair can last several seasons. Replace them when the outsole tread is smooth, the footbed loses support, or the straps break.