Crocs are renowned for their durability, comfort, and versatility. However, due to their unique material and frequent use, Crocs can develop an unpleasant odor over time.
This is likely to create an unpleasant situation, especially if you wear them regularly, and it might ultimately lead you to wonder, “How to get rid of smell in Crocs?”
Fortunately, there is no need to worry as there are several effective methods that can help eliminate this odor and keep your Crocs smelling fresh.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into the reasons that can cause such odors in Crocs and explore various cleaning techniques and preventive measures to keep them in top condition.
Introduction: Why Do Crocs Smell?
Crocs are known for their comfort and versatility, making them a popular choice of footwear in many people's wardrobes.
However, even though they provide countless benefits, Crocs often have the tendency to develop an unpleasant odor that can be both embarrassing and frustrating.
Hence, it is important to understand the underlying causes to effectively eliminate and prevent this odor.
Material Composition
Crocs are mainly composed of Croslite, a proprietary material that is central to their comfort and durability.
Unlike rubber or plastic, Croslite is a one-of-a-kind foam material that provides ample cushioning and support, while simultaneously being lightweight and flexible.
Unfortunately, due to some reasons, Croslite is known for contributing to odor issues. These include:
Non-Porous Nature
Croslite has a closed-cell structure, which indicates that it is non-porous. Even though this feature helps make the material water-resistant and easy to clean, it also restricts the proper airflow. As a result, this creates an environment where moisture can become trapped inside the shoe.
Temperature Retention
Croslite is best known for its ability to retain heat. However, when combined with prolonged wear, this can create a warm environment inside the shoe. When this warmth combines with sweat, the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi tends to accelerate.
Lack of Ventilation
While Crocs are designed to be breathable, with the majority of styles featuring perforations or holes, these ventilation features are sometimes unable to prevent moisture, especially in warm or humid conditions.
Even though the ventilation in Crocs helps to some extent, the non-porous nature of Croslite restricts the overall flow of air. This means that moisture from sweat can still get trapped inside, particularly in the footbed, leading to odor.
Moreover, if you wear Crocs in wet or humid environments, the additional moisture can make it harder for your shoes to dry out completely, promoting bacterial growth.
Sweat and Moisture Accumulation
One of the primary contributors to odor in Crocs is the accumulation of sweat and moisture. Our feet naturally sweat throughout the day, especially while engaging in physical activities or during warmer weather.
Socks are a great way to absorb all the sweat from your feet as they tend to evaporate after some time. However, if you choose to wear Crocs barefoot, there is no place for the sweat to escape.
Even though sweat is not smelly on its own, it creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria when it builds up in such an environment. Over time, these bacteria break down the sweat into fatty acids, which are the primary source of the unpleasant odor.
Moreover, Croslite has a water-resistant nature. This signifies that any moisture entering the shoe, be it in the form of water, sweat, etc., will be trapped inside. This ultimately aggravates the growth of fungi and bacteria.
Bacterial and Fungal Growth
Undoubtedly, fungi and bacteria are the primary culprits behind the smell that develops in Crocs. This is because their ability to thrive in dark, moist environments makes the interior of a Croc an ideal breeding ground.
For instance, when bacteria break down sweat and dead skin cells, they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are responsible for causing unpleasant foot odor that can become noticeable in Crocs after prolonged use.
In other instances, fungi, such as those that cause athlete’s foot, can also take hold in Crocs if they are not kept clean and dry. These fungal infections can be serious and produce nasty odors that are incredibly challenging to eliminate.
Wearing Crocs for Extended Periods without Proper Care
Just like any other footwear, Crocs also call for routine maintenance and regular cleaning to stay fresh. However, this is often overlooked because many people assume Crocs do not require much care since they are made from a durable material.
Unfortunately, dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris can accumulate in your Crocs overtime, particularly around the toes and in the footbed. This build-up provides room for bacteria and fungi, leading to stronger and more persistent odors.
How to Remove Smell from Crocs
If you observe an unpleasant odor coming from your Crocs, here are some of the most effective methods you can implement to eliminate the smell and keep your Crocs fresh, odor-free and ready to wear again.
Wash Your Crocs Regularly to Keep Them Clean and Fresh
One of the most important steps in preventing and eliminating odor in Crocs is to clean them regularly. You can choose between hand washing or machine washing your Crocs, based on the extent of odor or dirt. Let’s discuss both ways in detail.
Hand Wash
Hand washing your Crocs is a gentle yet an incredibly effective way of eliminating dirt, grime, and bacteria that can contribute to odor. This is a safe method as it enables you to be gentle with your Crocs while thoroughly cleaning them. The materials you will need are:
- Mild soap or detergent
- Warm water
- Soft brush or cloth
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Start by filling a basin or sink with warm water. Add a few drops of mild soap or detergent to the water and stir until it forms a soapy solution. This will help break down any dirt or oils on the surface of the Crocs.
Step 2: Soak the Crocs
Place your Crocs in the soapy water and allow them to soak for about 5-10 minutes. This soaking process helps to loosen any dirt or debris stuck to the shoes and neutralizes any odors.
Step 3: Scrub the Crocs
After soaking, take a soft brush or cloth and gently scrub the inside and outside of the Crocs, while focusing more on the footbed and any areas where dirt or odor might be concentrated. Using small circular motions, you can try to lift off any grime or dirt and eliminate bacteria.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have scrubbed the Crocs, it is time to rinse them thoroughly under clean lukewarm water while ensuring to remove all soap residues.
Step 5: Air Dry Completely
After rinsing, shake off any excess water and place your Crocs in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent any potential damage to the material.
Machine Wash
If you are short on time or prefer a more hands-off approach, it is more convenient to you’re your Crocs via a machine. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to protect your Crocs during the wash cycle.
Step 1: Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
The most important step before placing your Crocs in the washing machine is to put them inside a mesh laundry bag. This keeps your shoes from being tossed around too much during the wash cycle, which could cause damage.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cycle
Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle and use cold water. It is best to stick with a cold wash and avoid hot water as it can potentially warp or damage the material.
Step 3: Air Dry Thoroughly
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your Crocs from the laundry bag and let them air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage the material.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most powerful and natural forms of deodorizers that can effectively neutralize odors in your Crocs. Additionally, it is also quite affordable, and this solution can easily be found in most households.
Baking soda works by absorbing moisture and neutralizing the acidic compounds that cause bad odors. When used regularly, it can also aid in keeping your Crocs smelling fresh.
After cleaning your Crocs, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside each shoe. Make sure the entire footbed and any areas where odor is concentrated are properly covered.
Let It Sit Overnight
It is generally a good idea to leave the baking soda in the Crocs overnight as this gives it plenty of time to absorb odors. However, when the odor is particularly strong, you can leave it in for up to 24 hours.
Shake Out the Excess
Always shake out the excess baking soda the following day. You can also use a small brush or cloth to wipe away any remaining powder. Rest assured, you will notice your Crocs smelling significantly fresher.
Soak Them in Vinegar
Vinegar is yet another natural remedy that can significantly aid in neutralizing that nasty smell in your Crocs. It contains antibacterial properties that effectively eliminates the bacteria that causes bad smells.
The acidity of the vinegar plays a crucial role in breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, effectively killing them and preventing them from producing odor. Moreover, it also helps to defuse any lingering smells.
Prepare the Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a wash basin or sink to create a vinegar solution. The mixture should be enough to fully submerge your Crocs.
Soak the Crocs
Place your Crocs in the vinegar solution and allow them to soak for about 30 minutes. This allows the vinegar to penetrate the material and offset any bacteria or odors.
Rinse Thoroughly
After soaking, rinse the Crocs thoroughly with clean water to remove any vinegar residue. As the Crocs dry over time, the smell of vinegar will disperse.
Air Dry Completely
It is crucial that you allow your Crocs to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Once dry, they should be odor-free and ready to wear.
Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal can be a useful component in getting rid of that smell in Crocs as it has a porous structure that allows it to absorb moisture and trap odor-causing molecules. Due to this reason, it serves as an excellent choice for keeping your Crocs fresh. Charcoal inserts are easy to use and can be left in your Crocs when they are not in use.
Insert Charcoal Bags
When you are not wearing your Crocs, you can place activated charcoal inserts or small bags inside each pair. This gives the charcoal time to absorb any lingering moisture and odors. You can easily purchase these inserts online or from any home goods store.
Replace Regularly
For best results, replace the charcoal inserts every few weeks or as needed. This ensures they remain effective at absorbing odors.
Apply Essential Oils
In addition to offering antibacterial properties that can help combat odor, certain essential oils can be beneficial in adding a pleasant scent to your Crocs. This method is ideal if you prefer a natural and aromatic solution and want your Crocs to leave behind a refreshing scent.
Apply to a Cotton Ball and Place Inside the Crocs
Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a cotton ball or small piece of cloth. Then place it in each Croc and leave it there overnight. The oil’s scent will infuse the shoes, and the antibacterial properties will help kill any remaining bacteria.
Remove and Air Out
Remove the cotton balls the following day and let your Crocs air out for a few minutes before wearing them. Your Crocs should now smell clean and fresh.
|
Method
|
Time Required
|
Cost
|
Effectiveness
|
|
|
Hand Wash
|
20-30 minutes
|
Low
|
High
|
Gentle on the material
|
|
Machine Wash
|
1-2 hours
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Use only on gentle cycle
|
|
Vinegar Soak
|
30-40 minutes
|
Low
|
High
|
May leave a slight vinegar smell
|
|
Baking Soda
|
Overnight
|
Very Low
|
High
|
Natural and safe for frequent use
|
|
Charcoal Inserts
|
Continuous
|
Moderate
|
Moderate
|
Ideal for long-term maintenance
|
|
Essential Oils
|
Overnight
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Provides a pleasant scent
|
Preventive Measures to Keep Crocs Odor-Free
Now that you know how to get rid of the unpleasant odor in Crocs, here are some additional things you can do to prevent the smell from returning:
-
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly before putting on your Crocs.
-
Wear Socks: Wearing a pair of moisture-wicking socks with your Crocs will do an excellent job of absorbing sweat and minimizing odor.
-
Use Foot Powder: This is another effective way to minimize the moisture and sweat from retaining.
-
Rotate Your Footwear: It is recommended not to wear the same pair of Crocs every day. Instead, you should give them time to air out between uses.
-
Store Your Crocs in a Cool and Dry Place: Never leave your Crocs in damp or humid areas where bacteria and fungi can thrive.
Conclusion
Suffice it to say, getting rid of the smell in your Crocs is not only possible but straightforward with the right methods. By following the tips and methods outlined above, you can enjoy your Crocs without worrying about unpleasant odors.
After all, regular cleaning and proper storage are key to extending the life and freshness of your favorite footwear. If you also want to elevate your footwear game, look no further.
Simply visit FreakyShoes.com and get your hands on the most amazing custom-designed shoes that not only look great but are also designed keeping your personal preferences and comfort in mind.
Whether you’re looking for unique, personalized footwear or just something to make a statement, you can rest assured we’ve got you covered.
Crocs are renowned for their durability, comfort, and versatility. However, due to their unique material and frequent use, Crocs can develop an unpleasant odor over time.
This is likely to create an unpleasant situation, especially if you wear them regularly, and it might ultimately lead you to wonder, “How to get rid of smell in Crocs?”
Fortunately, there is no need to worry as there are several effective methods that can help eliminate this odor and keep your Crocs smelling fresh.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into the reasons that can cause such odors in Crocs and explore various cleaning techniques and preventive measures to keep them in top condition.
Introduction: Why Do Crocs Smell?
Crocs are known for their comfort and versatility, making them a popular choice of footwear in many people's wardrobes.
However, even though they provide countless benefits, Crocs often have the tendency to develop an unpleasant odor that can be both embarrassing and frustrating.
Hence, it is important to understand the underlying causes to effectively eliminate and prevent this odor.
Material Composition
Crocs are mainly composed of Croslite, a proprietary material that is central to their comfort and durability.
Unlike rubber or plastic, Croslite is a one-of-a-kind foam material that provides ample cushioning and support, while simultaneously being lightweight and flexible.
Unfortunately, due to some reasons, Croslite is known for contributing to odor issues. These include:
Non-Porous Nature
Croslite has a closed-cell structure, which indicates that it is non-porous. Even though this feature helps make the material water-resistant and easy to clean, it also restricts the proper airflow. As a result, this creates an environment where moisture can become trapped inside the shoe.
Temperature Retention
Croslite is best known for its ability to retain heat. However, when combined with prolonged wear, this can create a warm environment inside the shoe. When this warmth combines with sweat, the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi tends to accelerate.
Lack of Ventilation
While Crocs are designed to be breathable, with the majority of styles featuring perforations or holes, these ventilation features are sometimes unable to prevent moisture, especially in warm or humid conditions.
Even though the ventilation in Crocs helps to some extent, the non-porous nature of Croslite restricts the overall flow of air. This means that moisture from sweat can still get trapped inside, particularly in the footbed, leading to odor.
Moreover, if you wear Crocs in wet or humid environments, the additional moisture can make it harder for your shoes to dry out completely, promoting bacterial growth.
Sweat and Moisture Accumulation
One of the primary contributors to odor in Crocs is the accumulation of sweat and moisture. Our feet naturally sweat throughout the day, especially while engaging in physical activities or during warmer weather.
Socks are a great way to absorb all the sweat from your feet as they tend to evaporate after some time. However, if you choose to wear Crocs barefoot, there is no place for the sweat to escape.
Even though sweat is not smelly on its own, it creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria when it builds up in such an environment. Over time, these bacteria break down the sweat into fatty acids, which are the primary source of the unpleasant odor.
Moreover, Croslite has a water-resistant nature. This signifies that any moisture entering the shoe, be it in the form of water, sweat, etc., will be trapped inside. This ultimately aggravates the growth of fungi and bacteria.
Bacterial and Fungal Growth
Undoubtedly, fungi and bacteria are the primary culprits behind the smell that develops in Crocs. This is because their ability to thrive in dark, moist environments makes the interior of a Croc an ideal breeding ground.
For instance, when bacteria break down sweat and dead skin cells, they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are responsible for causing unpleasant foot odor that can become noticeable in Crocs after prolonged use.
In other instances, fungi, such as those that cause athlete’s foot, can also take hold in Crocs if they are not kept clean and dry. These fungal infections can be serious and produce nasty odors that are incredibly challenging to eliminate.
Wearing Crocs for Extended Periods without Proper Care
Just like any other footwear, Crocs also call for routine maintenance and regular cleaning to stay fresh. However, this is often overlooked because many people assume Crocs do not require much care since they are made from a durable material.
Unfortunately, dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris can accumulate in your Crocs overtime, particularly around the toes and in the footbed. This build-up provides room for bacteria and fungi, leading to stronger and more persistent odors.
How to Remove Smell from Crocs
If you observe an unpleasant odor coming from your Crocs, here are some of the most effective methods you can implement to eliminate the smell and keep your Crocs fresh, odor-free and ready to wear again.
Wash Your Crocs Regularly to Keep Them Clean and Fresh
One of the most important steps in preventing and eliminating odor in Crocs is to clean them regularly. You can choose between hand washing or machine washing your Crocs, based on the extent of odor or dirt. Let’s discuss both ways in detail.
Hand Wash
Hand washing your Crocs is a gentle yet an incredibly effective way of eliminating dirt, grime, and bacteria that can contribute to odor. This is a safe method as it enables you to be gentle with your Crocs while thoroughly cleaning them. The materials you will need are:
- Mild soap or detergent
- Warm water
- Soft brush or cloth
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Start by filling a basin or sink with warm water. Add a few drops of mild soap or detergent to the water and stir until it forms a soapy solution. This will help break down any dirt or oils on the surface of the Crocs.
Step 2: Soak the Crocs
Place your Crocs in the soapy water and allow them to soak for about 5-10 minutes. This soaking process helps to loosen any dirt or debris stuck to the shoes and neutralizes any odors.
Step 3: Scrub the Crocs
After soaking, take a soft brush or cloth and gently scrub the inside and outside of the Crocs, while focusing more on the footbed and any areas where dirt or odor might be concentrated. Using small circular motions, you can try to lift off any grime or dirt and eliminate bacteria.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have scrubbed the Crocs, it is time to rinse them thoroughly under clean lukewarm water while ensuring to remove all soap residues.
Step 5: Air Dry Completely
After rinsing, shake off any excess water and place your Crocs in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent any potential damage to the material.
Machine Wash
If you are short on time or prefer a more hands-off approach, it is more convenient to you’re your Crocs via a machine. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to protect your Crocs during the wash cycle.
Step 1: Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
The most important step before placing your Crocs in the washing machine is to put them inside a mesh laundry bag. This keeps your shoes from being tossed around too much during the wash cycle, which could cause damage.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cycle
Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle and use cold water. It is best to stick with a cold wash and avoid hot water as it can potentially warp or damage the material.
Step 3: Air Dry Thoroughly
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your Crocs from the laundry bag and let them air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage the material.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most powerful and natural forms of deodorizers that can effectively neutralize odors in your Crocs. Additionally, it is also quite affordable, and this solution can easily be found in most households.
Baking soda works by absorbing moisture and neutralizing the acidic compounds that cause bad odors. When used regularly, it can also aid in keeping your Crocs smelling fresh.
After cleaning your Crocs, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside each shoe. Make sure the entire footbed and any areas where odor is concentrated are properly covered.
Let It Sit Overnight
It is generally a good idea to leave the baking soda in the Crocs overnight as this gives it plenty of time to absorb odors. However, when the odor is particularly strong, you can leave it in for up to 24 hours.
Shake Out the Excess
Always shake out the excess baking soda the following day. You can also use a small brush or cloth to wipe away any remaining powder. Rest assured, you will notice your Crocs smelling significantly fresher.
Soak Them in Vinegar
Vinegar is yet another natural remedy that can significantly aid in neutralizing that nasty smell in your Crocs. It contains antibacterial properties that effectively eliminates the bacteria that causes bad smells.
The acidity of the vinegar plays a crucial role in breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, effectively killing them and preventing them from producing odor. Moreover, it also helps to defuse any lingering smells.
Prepare the Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a wash basin or sink to create a vinegar solution. The mixture should be enough to fully submerge your Crocs.
Soak the Crocs
Place your Crocs in the vinegar solution and allow them to soak for about 30 minutes. This allows the vinegar to penetrate the material and offset any bacteria or odors.
Rinse Thoroughly
After soaking, rinse the Crocs thoroughly with clean water to remove any vinegar residue. As the Crocs dry over time, the smell of vinegar will disperse.
Air Dry Completely
It is crucial that you allow your Crocs to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Once dry, they should be odor-free and ready to wear.
Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal can be a useful component in getting rid of that smell in Crocs as it has a porous structure that allows it to absorb moisture and trap odor-causing molecules. Due to this reason, it serves as an excellent choice for keeping your Crocs fresh. Charcoal inserts are easy to use and can be left in your Crocs when they are not in use.
Insert Charcoal Bags
When you are not wearing your Crocs, you can place activated charcoal inserts or small bags inside each pair. This gives the charcoal time to absorb any lingering moisture and odors. You can easily purchase these inserts online or from any home goods store.
Replace Regularly
For best results, replace the charcoal inserts every few weeks or as needed. This ensures they remain effective at absorbing odors.
Apply Essential Oils
In addition to offering antibacterial properties that can help combat odor, certain essential oils can be beneficial in adding a pleasant scent to your Crocs. This method is ideal if you prefer a natural and aromatic solution and want your Crocs to leave behind a refreshing scent.
Apply to a Cotton Ball and Place Inside the Crocs
Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a cotton ball or small piece of cloth. Then place it in each Croc and leave it there overnight. The oil’s scent will infuse the shoes, and the antibacterial properties will help kill any remaining bacteria.
Remove and Air Out
Remove the cotton balls the following day and let your Crocs air out for a few minutes before wearing them. Your Crocs should now smell clean and fresh.
|
Method
|
Time Required
|
Cost
|
Effectiveness
|
|
|
Hand Wash
|
20-30 minutes
|
Low
|
High
|
Gentle on the material
|
|
Machine Wash
|
1-2 hours
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Use only on gentle cycle
|
|
Vinegar Soak
|
30-40 minutes
|
Low
|
High
|
May leave a slight vinegar smell
|
|
Baking Soda
|
Overnight
|
Very Low
|
High
|
Natural and safe for frequent use
|
|
Charcoal Inserts
|
Continuous
|
Moderate
|
Moderate
|
Ideal for long-term maintenance
|
|
Essential Oils
|
Overnight
|
Low
|
Moderate
|
Provides a pleasant scent
|
Preventive Measures to Keep Crocs Odor-Free
Now that you know how to get rid of the unpleasant odor in Crocs, here are some additional things you can do to prevent the smell from returning:
-
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly before putting on your Crocs.
-
Wear Socks: Wearing a pair of moisture-wicking socks with your Crocs will do an excellent job of absorbing sweat and minimizing odor.
-
Use Foot Powder: This is another effective way to minimize the moisture and sweat from retaining.
-
Rotate Your Footwear: It is recommended not to wear the same pair of Crocs every day. Instead, you should give them time to air out between uses.
-
Store Your Crocs in a Cool and Dry Place: Never leave your Crocs in damp or humid areas where bacteria and fungi can thrive.
Conclusion
Suffice it to say, getting rid of the smell in your Crocs is not only possible but straightforward with the right methods. By following the tips and methods outlined above, you can enjoy your Crocs without worrying about unpleasant odors.
After all, regular cleaning and proper storage are key to extending the life and freshness of your favorite footwear. If you also want to elevate your footwear game, look no further.
Simply visit FreakyShoes.com and get your hands on the most amazing custom-designed shoes that not only look great but are also designed keeping your personal preferences and comfort in mind.
Whether you’re looking for unique, personalized footwear or just something to make a statement, you can rest assured we’ve got you covered.
