Washing Rothy’s isn’t as tricky as it seems. These shoes are actually designed to be machine washable, making them some of the easiest shoes to care for. You just need to follow a few simple steps to keep them looking fresh.
To wash Rothy’s, toss the shoes in a mesh bag and machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use mild detergent, then air dry to keep them looking fresh.
Simple, right?
Want step-by-step details? Then, keep reading. We’ll walk you through:
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The exact steps
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Share a few tricks we’ve learned over the years.
Stick around, and you’ll never have to worry about dingy, smelly Rothy’s again.
Key Takeaways
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To wash Rothy’s, remove insoles and laces for a thorough clean.
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Always choose cold water and a gentle cycle.
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Use mild, bleach-free detergent.
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Air dry – never use a dryer.
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Expect 8 to 12 hours of drying time.
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Always keep in mind that Rothy’s are water-resistant, but not fully waterproof.
How to Wash Rothy's? (Detailed Guide)
To wash Rothy’s:
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Remove insoles and gently shake out any dirt.
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Place shoes and insoles in a mesh laundry bag.
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Use cold water and mild detergent on a gentle cycle.
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Air dry, avoiding direct sunlight or heat.
Now, the details.
Step 1: Remove Insoles and Laces
To clean Rothy’s, start by taking out the insoles and any laces. This is important. It lets the shoes get a deeper clean and speeds up the drying time.
We’ve found that when you leave the insoles in, they tend to trap dirt and odors, which can make the shoes smell even after washing.
Plus, it’s a lot easier to scrub the insoles separately if they need a little extra attention. We always do this step, and it helps keep our Rothy’s fresh.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
If you have a tough stain or your Rothy’s have started to smell a bit off, take a few minutes to pre-treat those spots. Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works) and a little mild detergent. Gently scrub the areas before tossing them in the washer.
We’ve had good luck using a bit of white vinegar mixed with water for stubborn marks. It works well on scuffs or those little dark spots that seem to come out of nowhere. Just be gentle – Rothy’s are tough, but you still want to avoid rough scrubbing.
Step 3: Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
This is a simple but smart step. Tossing your shoes and insoles into a mesh laundry bag helps prevent them from getting banged up or losing shape in the machine. We learned this the hard way when one pair came out with a few frayed threads.
Now, we always use a bag, and it makes a big difference in how the shoes hold up over time.
Step 4: Select Cold Water and Gentle Cycle
In the fourth step, set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. This matters because hot water can cause the fabric to warp or the shoes to shrink a bit. Trust us, you don’t want to ruin that perfect fit.
Cold water is also better for preserving the color. We made the mistake once of using warm water, and while the shoes were clean, they looked a bit dull afterward. Now, it’s cold water every time.
Step 5: Use Mild Detergent
Choose a gentle, bleach-free detergent to wash your Rothy’s. Harsh chemicals can break down the fabric over time and mess with the vibrant colors. We stick to the basics – nothing fancy or heavily scented.
Tide Free & Gentle is a good choice, and we prefer to use it every time. We once used Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Castile Soap and the results were good, too. A guy has told us that he used The Laundress Stain Solution and Rothy’s came out clean.
Once, we used a strong, floral-scented detergent, and it was a mistake. The shoes smelled great, but the color wasn’t as bright. Lesson learned.
Step 6: Air Dry Properly
After washing, reshape your Rothy’s and insoles if needed, then let them air dry. In our experience, the best spots are:
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Shaded, well-ventilated areas
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Indoors near a fan or open window
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Laundry drying racks
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Sheltered patios or balconies
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Closet with good airflow
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Covered porch or deck
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Room with a dehumidifier
Note: Never put them in the dryer, as the heat can mess up the fit and warp the fabric.
We like to stuff ours with paper towels or soft cloths to help them keep their shape as they dry. It’s a small step, but it keeps the shoes looking new for longer.
How Long Do Rothy’s Take to Dry?
Rothy’s typically take 8 to 12 hours to dry completely, depending on the weather and air circulation. Because they’re made from recycled plastic, they don’t soak up water like cotton or leather shoes, but it’s still important to let them dry fully before wearing them again.
We’ve found that placing them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight works best. Direct heat can cause the fabric to lose its shape or the colors to fade, so it’s better to let them dry naturally. If you’re in a rush, you can use a fan to speed things up, but avoid hair dryers or heaters.
Do Rothy’s Shrink After Washing?
Rothy’s generally don’t shrink if you wash them correctly, but they can lose their shape if exposed to high heat. This is why it’s crucial to use cold water and a gentle cycle. Hot water or a dryer can warp the fabric or cause the shoes to fit more snugly.
We’ve washed our Rothy’s dozens of times without any noticeable shrinkage, but we always stick to cold water and air drying. This helps preserve their original fit and keeps the material in top shape. If you accidentally use warm water or heat, you might notice the shoes feel a bit tighter, especially around the toe box.
If your Rothy’s do feel a little snug after a wash, wearing them around the house for a few hours can help them stretch back to their original fit. The fabric is flexible and will gradually mold to your foot again with regular wear.
Are Rothy’s Waterproof?
Rothy’s are not fully waterproof, but they are water-resistant. This means they can handle a bit of rain or a quick splash, but they’re not designed for heavy soaking or muddy hikes. The knit fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, which naturally repels some moisture, but it’s still a good idea to avoid deep puddles.
We’ve worn ours in light rain without any issues, but the insoles can absorb moisture, which can lead to a soggy feel. If you do get caught in a downpour, remove the insoles as soon as possible and let everything dry completely to prevent odors.
For a bit of extra protection, you can use a fabric spray to add a water-repellent coating. It won’t make them fully waterproof, but it can help keep them looking fresh and dry a bit longer. We’ve tried this on our Rothy’s, and it’s been a game changer on rainy days.
Have kids at home? Then, you must check out this guide: How Can You Properly Clean Toddler Shoes?
Final Words
Washing Rothy’s is simple if you follow a few basic steps. Just remember to:
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Remove insoles and laces for a deeper clean.
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Use cold water and a gentle cycle to prevent shrinking.
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Avoid the dryer – always air dry.
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Use a mesh bag to protect your shoes.
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Pre-treat stains for the best results.
With a little care, your Rothy’s will keep looking fresh and stylish for years.
