How to Wash and Care for Your Slippers: What to Keep in Mind!

Whether after work or during the weekend, slippers are our faithful daily companions. Like regular outdoor shoes, they endure a lot — after all, we often wear them for hours at a time. While they don’t last forever, proper care and cleaning can greatly extend their lifespan. Here’s everything you need to know about the different materials used for slippers and how to keep them clean and comfortable for years to come.

Types of Slipper Materials

Slippers come in a variety of materials, depending on their purpose and comfort level. They can be made from natural materials like leather, felt, or wool, or from synthetic ones such as faux leather and rubber. Some are designed to keep your feet warm, while others provide excellent support for prolonged wear. Below are some of the most common materials.

Felt Slippers

Especially in the cold season, nothing beats a cozy pair of felt slippers — particularly those lined with lambskin. Made from 100% wool, felt offers natural temperature-regulating properties that keep your feet warm without overheating. This ensures a balanced and comfortable foot climate throughout the day. You can even try knitting your own felt slippers at home!

Leather Slippers

Leather slippers are a timeless favorite — stylish, durable, and comfortable. When cared for properly, they can last for many years. The material is naturally elastic, adapting perfectly to the movement of your feet and offering a snug, supportive fit.

How to Wash and Care for Slippers

Unlike outdoor shoes, slippers are usually more delicate and require gentler care. With proper cleaning, you can significantly extend their life. Here are some practical tips for washing, cleaning, and drying your favorite pairs.

Can You Wash Slippers in the Washing Machine?

While most slippers can be cleaned with a cloth or brush, stubborn dirt may require a more thorough wash. However, not all materials are suitable for machine washing.

Textile materials such as wool felt or boiled wool can generally be washed on a gentle wool cycle (30°C). Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and avoid fabric softeners, as they can cause the slippers to lose their shape.

Slippers made of leather or glued materials should never go in the washing machine. Instead, clean them using a soft brush or damp cloth to remove dirt and stains safely.

Cleaning Slippers with a Damp Cloth

A damp cloth is often the gentlest way to clean slippers, regardless of the material. Warm water alone can work wonders for removing light stains. For tougher spots, add a drop of mild dish soap or wool detergent. These help break down grease and lift dirt effectively.

Using a Brush for Cleaning

Dust and pet hair can quickly accumulate on slippers, even in tidy homes. Use a soft shoe brush to gently remove debris from the surface. A few light strokes are often enough — for more stubborn dirt, brush a little more firmly.

Eliminating Odors from Slippers

Over time, slippers can develop unpleasant odors caused by bacteria buildup. To refresh them, use a shoe deodorizing spray to kill bacteria and neutralize smells.

Alternatively, try a natural method: seal your slippers in a plastic bag and place them in the freezer overnight. The cold will kill odor-causing bacteria, leaving your slippers fresh again by morning.

Drying Slippers Properly

After cleaning, it’s essential to let your slippers dry completely before wearing them again. Never place wet slippers on a heater or use a hairdryer — this can damage the materials and adhesives. Instead:

• Allow time: Let them dry naturally at room temperature.
• Use newspaper: Stuff slippers with newspaper to absorb moisture from the inside.

Clean Slippers, Lasting Comfort

Whether you wear them at home, in the office, or while visiting friends, slippers are part of everyday comfort. By washing and caring for them properly, you’ll enjoy their warmth and coziness for much longer. Follow these simple cleaning and drying tips, and you won’t need to replace your slippers as often — your feet (and your wallet) will thank you!