Slippers are comfortable, regular-use footwear that most people cannot even imagine their mornings without. If you are enjoying your leisure time at home or have cold feet after a day’s work, then a good slipper is something very essential. But let’s be honest: slippers are easily ruined if not well maintained or used inappropriately. Sometimes, you get used to a certain pair and may have invested a good amount in it, but then it slowly begins to lack its charm. Fortunately, you do not have to let your slippers get dirty and worn out as you can follow some simple procedures to make them as good as new.
If you are that person who always endeavors to keep things clean or if you just want your slippers to be long-lasting, then you are at the right place. Here are five simple suggestions that will enable you to prolong the useful life of your slippers: No matter if you have bought warm slippers for women or just took home casual slippers, following these tips can help you keep their appearance and comfort for a long time. You will also save yourself the time and money of being forced to replace them often and help the environment.
1. Clean Them Regularly (But Carefully)
Just like any other shoe, slippers get dirty over time and may harbor dust, dirt, and bacteria. They require a regular cleaning routine to remain in the best condition possible. However, not all slippers are made of the same material, so one must read the label before washing them with great force.
For fabric like cotton or synthetic slippers, you can wash them in the washing machine. A delicate cycle with cold water should be used to avoid contracting the material or fading the color. It is usually possible to clean them effectively by washing with a small amount of mild detergent. They should not be dried using a dryer; instead, let them dry naturally. If exposed to high temperatures, the material tends to deform or may even be damaged completely.
In the case of suede or leather slippers, or indeed any slipper made from an overly delicate material, a different approach will have to be used. A wet towel and a pinch of a specific cleaning solution (such as those used for leather, suede, etc.) would be sufficient.
2. Keep Them Odor-Free
Slippers may start to stink after some use, and wearing them without socks is not a good idea at all. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent odors from lingering by following several simple measures. The easiest way is to apply a thin layer of baking soda on the inside of the slippers, leave it for several hours, and then vacuum it out. Baking soda absorbs moisture and eliminates unpleasant smells.
Another trick is to use dryer sheets. Put a new sheet in each slipper for the night, and your slippers will be fresh and free of odor the following day. You can also try foot powders or sprays that have been manufactured specifically to kill odor. Additionally, you can use a few drops of oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, on the inner lining. These oils are good for killing bacteria and will give your slippers a pleasant smell.
3. Rotate Between Pairs
If you wear slippers all the time, it is advisable to have options to rotate between. Wearing the same pair repeatedly diminishes their usability, leading to wear and tear, and can accumulate difficult-to-remove stains or smells. Having two or three pairs gives one set a chance to dry while the other is being used.
4. Store Them Properly
If you are not wearing your slippers, store them properly to extend their lifespan. Avoid leaving them on the floor as they can capture dust, dirt, and pet hair. Instead, place them in a clean, dry area or location free from direct sunlight. You can store them in a shoe rack or a fabric shoe bag to avoid exposure to dust and air.
If your slippers are made of leather, suede, or other materials that may deform, stuff them with tissue paper or use a shoe shaper. This helps them maintain their shape for a longer time.
5. Be Mindful of Where You Wear Them
Slippers are expected to be worn at home or in other enclosed areas and should be kept indoors. Wearing them outside, even briefly, can compromise the soles and introduce dirt or moisture, which can be detrimental. If you frequently wear slippers outside, consider getting ones with a stronger sole made for both indoor and outdoor wear. This way, you enjoy the comfort of slippers with the durability of shoes. If you want to keep your indoor slippers in the best shape, switch to shoes when stepping outside.
Conclusion
Whether you’re wearing extra soft, warm woolen slippers in winter or lightweight cotton ones for summer, it’s not difficult to keep them fresh. By cleaning them regularly, keeping them odor-free, rotating between pairs, storing them properly, and being mindful of where you wear them, your slippers can last for many months or even years. So the next time you buy slippers online, remember that a little care will keep your favorite pair with you for a long time.