How to Clean Rubber Sandals and Slides

Why cleaning rubber sandals matters

Rubber and foam sandals and slides are built to resist moisture, so it is easy to assume they stay clean on their own. That assumption fails on two fronts. Dirt and grit grind into the footbed with every step, and sweat, skin oils, and dead cells feed bacteria that produce odor. Over time, embedded grime can also make the surface feel rough and speed up material breakdown, especially on soft foam midsoles.

A regular cleaning routine is not about cosmetics. Keeping the footbed free of abrasive particles helps maintain the surface texture that prevents slipping. For readers with foot conditions, working with a podiatrist (APMA) or an orthopaedic surgeon (AAOS) can offer guidance on maintaining foot health, but good hygiene is a simple first step for everyone. Comfort starts with a clean foundation, and that is just as true for a pair of slides as for any other shoe.

Step-by-step: how to hand wash rubber sandals and slides

Machine washing is tempting for a pair of flip-flops, but it is a bad idea. The tumbling action can warp the shape, weaken the glue holding straps to the sole, and damage foam cells. Hand washing is quick, and the materials dry fast.

Follow these steps:

Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap or a gentle laundry detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh solvents, which can discolor rubber and break down foam.

Dip a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works) or a cloth into the soapy water and scrub the entire surface, starting with the top of the straps and the footbed, then the sides, and finally the sole. Use a circular motion to lift dirt from the grain.

Pay extra attention to the tread pattern on the outsole. Small stones and packed dirt hide there and get tracked indoors. A toothpick or an old toothbrush can dig out stubborn debris.

Rinse thoroughly under running water until all the soap is gone. Soap residue attracts dirt and can leave a film on the footbed.

• Use lukewarm water, never hot, which can soften and deform the material.
• Use a dedicated brush to avoid transferring oils or dyes from other shoes.
• Do not submerge the shoes for a long time. A quick rinse is enough.

How to clean foam footbeds and slides

Closed-cell foam is the material used in many slides and sport sandals because it is light and cushions well. It also absorbs odors more readily than hard rubber. A paste of baking soda and water works well. Apply the paste to the footbed, let it sit for five to ten minutes, then scrub with a soft brush and rinse.

Diluted white vinegar is another option. Mix one part vinegar with three parts water, dab it onto a cloth, and wipe the footbed. Vinegar neutralizes the alkaline compounds in sweat that cause odor. Keep the vinegar away from any printed logos, as it can fade them.

If the sandals have a removable insole or footbed, take it out and clean it separately. This allows the air to reach the full surface and shortens drying time. For more on footbed materials and replacement, see our guide on insole materials and replacement.

Drying rubber and foam sandals the right way

Drying matters more than most people expect. Heat is the enemy of rubber and foam. Do not use a dryer, a radiator, or a hair dryer. High temperatures can cause the foam to warp, shrink, or become brittle. It can also loosen the adhesive bond between the strap and the sole.

The best way to dry sandals is to let them air dry at room temperature. Place them in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. UV rays degrade rubber over time, causing discoloration and cracking. A fan can speed up the process without adding heat.

For a quicker dry, wipe the excess water with a towel first. For the inside of the straps, insert a dry cloth into the openings to absorb water. Let them sit for at least a few hours. Foam footbeds with deep contours can take longer, so be patient.

Preventing and removing odor from sandals and slides

Odor comes from bacteria and fungi multiplying on the warm, moist surface left behind after wearing. The most effective treatment is a two-part approach: clean the surface and change the environment.

After cleaning, a light spray of a disinfectant or a diluted tea tree oil solution can help kill residual bacteria. Avoid strong chemical deodorizers that can irritate skin or leave a sticky residue.

Make sure the sandals are completely dry before storing them. Storing damp sandals in a closet creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. If odor persists after cleaning, treat the footbed with a baking soda spray, then dry. For more perspective on keeping any shoe fresh, read our guide on odor control in shoes.

Regular foot hygiene also plays a role. Washing and drying feet thoroughly before putting on sandals reduces the amount of sweat and bacteria transferred to the footbed.

Protecting rubber and foam from wear

Beyond cleaning, a few habits keep rubber and foam sandals in good shape for longer. Rotate your sandals between days. Giving the foam a full day to bounce back and release moisture extends the life of the cushioning.

Avoid extreme temperatures. Leaving sandals in a hot car in summer can soften the midsole and cause the footbed to lose its shape. Similarly, freezing temperatures can make some foams stiff and brittle.

When you store them for the off-season, clean them first, dry them completely, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Stuffing the toe area with tissue paper can help maintain the shape during storage. This is a simpler version of what we recommend for any shoe in our guide on how to store summer sandals.

Material matters: rubber vs. EVA vs. PU

Understanding what your sandals are made of helps you choose the right cleaning method. Most sandals use one of three materials: natural rubber, EVA foam, or polyurethane (PU).

Natural rubber is dense, durable, and resists water well. It is common in traditional flip-flops and boat shoes. It cleans easily with soap and water and can tolerate more scrubbing.

EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) is a lightweight closed-cell foam used in many athletic slides and sport sandals. It is water-resistant but can absorb surface stains. EVA is sensitive to heat and solvents, so stick to mild soap and avoid leaving it in the sun.

Polyurethane is denser than EVA and often used in premium footbeds. It is durable but can break down with prolonged exposure to moisture. Clean PU footbeds with a damp cloth and air dry promptly. For more on the differences, see our comparison of EVA vs. TPU midsoles and foam vs. cork footbeds.

What to pick for your cleaning and care routine

Questions

Can I put rubber sandals in the washing machine?

It is not recommended. The agitation can warp the shape, damage straps, and loosen the glue. Hand washing is faster and safer, and it takes only a few minutes.

How do I clean the footbed of my slides without causing damage?

Use a soft brush, mild dish soap, and lukewarm water. For stubborn stains or odor, apply a baking soda paste, let it sit briefly, then scrub and rinse. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemicals.

Why do my rubber sandals smell even after I wash them?

Bacteria can survive deep in the pores of the foam. Ensure they dry completely after washing. A vinegar rinse or a tea tree oil spray can help kill the bacteria, and allowing them to air out between wears prevents the smell from returning.

How often should I clean my sandals and slides?

Wipe them down with a damp cloth after every wear to remove surface grime. Do a deeper hand wash once a week during heavy use, or whenever the footbed looks dirty or begins to retain odor.

Can I use bleach to clean white rubber soles?

Bleach can discolor and degrade rubber and foam. A paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide is safer for whitening. Apply, let it sit, scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly.

How do I dry foam sandals without them taking forever?

First, press a towel against the footbed to absorb excess water. Then place them in front of a fan at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can warp the foam.