How to Clean Different Types of Slippers

Clean slippers aren't just more pleasant to wear—they last longer, maintain their supportive properties, and keep your home hygienically fresh. Different slipper materials require different cleaning approaches, and using the wrong method can damage your favourite footwear. This comprehensive guide covers proper cleaning techniques for every major slipper type, from delicate sheepskin to machine-washable synthetics.

Cleaning Sheepskin Slippers

Sheepskin requires the most careful approach of any slipper material. The combination of wool and leather demands gentle cleaning that addresses both components without damaging either.

Routine Sheepskin Cleaning

1. Brush regularly: Use a soft sheepskin brush to lift wool fibres and remove surface dust after each wear or at least weekly.
2. Prepare cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of sheepskin-specific cleaner or mild wool wash with cool water. Alternatively, use a teaspoon of gentle baby shampoo in a cup of cool water.
3. Dampen cloth: Dip a clean microfibre cloth into the solution and wring thoroughly until barely damp.
4. Clean exterior: Gently wipe the outside in circular motions, focusing on stained areas without oversaturating.
5. Clean interior: Using a fresh, barely-damp cloth, clean the wool lining with gentle circular motions.
6. Remove soap: Wipe with a cloth dampened in plain cool water to remove cleaning residue.
7. Shape and dry: Stuff loosely with plain white paper towels and dry at room temperature away from direct heat or sunlight for 24-48 hours.

Treating Sheepskin Stains

• Water stains: Dampen the entire surface evenly and dry naturally to prevent ring marks
• Oil stains: Cover with cornstarch overnight, then brush away
• Mud: Allow to dry completely, then brush off and clean residue with damp cloth

Cleaning Memory Foam Slippers

Memory foam slippers vary in washability depending on construction. Check manufacturer labels first—many are machine washable, but some aren't. When in doubt, hand wash.

Machine-Washable Memory Foam

1. Remove any removable insoles or accessories
2. Place slippers in a mesh laundry bag to protect them
3. Use cold water and gentle cycle only
4. Add mild detergent—avoid bleach and fabric softeners
5. Never machine dry—air dry at room temperature

Hand-Washing Memory Foam

1. Fill a basin with cool water and mild detergent
2. Submerge slippers and gently squeeze water through the material
3. Focus on soiled areas with gentle rubbing
4. Rinse thoroughly in clean cool water until soap-free
5. Gently squeeze out excess water—don't wring or twist
6. Stuff with paper towels and dry at room temperature

Cleaning Wool and Felted Slippers

Pure wool slippers, including boiled wool and felted styles from brands like Glerups and HAFLINGER, need careful handling to prevent shrinkage and felting.

Wool Cleaning Process

1. Surface cleaning: Regularly brush away dust and debris with a soft brush
2. Spot cleaning: Address stains immediately with a damp cloth and tiny amount of wool wash
3. Full cleaning: Fill a basin with cool water (never warm!) and wool-specific detergent
4. Submerge slippers and gently squeeze solution through—don't agitate or rub
5. Rinse in cool water until completely soap-free
6. Press between towels to remove water—never wring
7. Reshape and dry flat at room temperature, away from direct heat

Cleaning Synthetic Fleece Slippers

Synthetic fleece and fabric slippers are generally the easiest to clean. Most tolerate machine washing well, making them practical choices for households needing frequent washing.

Machine Washing Synthetic Slippers

1. Check for loose parts or decorations that might detach
2. Place in a mesh laundry bag
3. Use cold or warm water (not hot) with mild detergent
4. Select gentle or delicate cycle
5. Air dry only—heat can damage synthetic materials and adhesives

Quick Refresh Between Washes

For regular maintenance between full washes:

• Sprinkle baking soda inside and leave overnight to absorb odours
• Wipe exterior with damp cloth to remove surface dirt
• Use a lint roller to remove pet hair and debris

Cleaning Leather and Suede Slippers

Leather slippers require specialised care to maintain their appearance and prevent drying or cracking.

Smooth Leather Care

1. Remove dust: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth
2. Clean: Apply leather cleaner with a soft cloth using circular motions
3. Condition: After cleaning, apply leather conditioner to prevent drying
4. Polish: For shine, buff with a soft cloth after conditioning

Suede Care

1. Brush regularly: Use a suede brush to lift nap and remove surface dirt
2. Treat stains: Use a suede eraser or white art eraser for dry stains
3. Wet stains: Blot immediately—never rub. Allow to dry, then brush
4. Deep cleaning: Use suede-specific cleaner following product instructions
5. Protection: Apply suede protector spray after cleaning

Cleaning Cork and Natural Material Slippers

Cork footbeds and natural rubber soles require specific approaches to maintain their properties.

Cork Footbed Care

• Wipe with barely damp cloth to remove surface dirt
• Never soak—water damages cork
• Periodically apply cork sealant if manufacturer recommends
• Avoid leaving in direct sunlight, which can dry and crack cork

Natural Rubber Soles

• Scrub with soft brush and mild soap solution
• Rinse thoroughly and dry completely
• Remove stuck debris with a toothpick or soft brush

Eliminating Odours from Any Slipper

Odour is the most common slipper complaint. These methods work across all slipper types:

Baking Soda Treatment

Sprinkle baking soda generously inside slippers and leave overnight (or up to 24 hours for persistent odours). Shake out thoroughly before wearing. Safe for all materials.

Freezer Method

Place slippers in a plastic bag and freeze overnight. Extreme cold kills odour-causing bacteria. Allow to return to room temperature before wearing.

Natural Deodorizers

• Cedar shoe inserts absorb moisture and impart pleasant scent
• Dried lavender sachets left inside overnight
• Activated charcoal inserts for severe odours

Drying Tips for All Slippers

Proper drying is as important as proper cleaning. Mistakes during drying cause shrinkage, material damage, and mould growth.

Universal Drying Rules

• Never tumble dry: Heat damages virtually all slipper materials
• Avoid direct heat: No radiators, hairdryers, or heaters
• Skip sunlight: UV rays fade colours and dry out natural materials
• Ensure airflow: Don't dry in enclosed spaces; good ventilation prevents mould
• Be patient: Allow 24-48 hours for complete drying

Speed Drying Safely

If you need faster drying:

• Stuff with crumpled newspaper, changing every few hours as it absorbs moisture
• Point a room fan toward slippers (not heating, just air movement)
• Place in well-ventilated area with good air circulation

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance prevents the need for intensive cleaning:

• After each wear: Air out in ventilated area
• Weekly: Brush or wipe to remove surface dirt; deodorise if needed
• Monthly: Deep clean or spot clean depending on wear
• Seasonally: Full cleaning before storage or season change

Clean slippers reward you with better comfort, longer lifespan, and a fresher home environment. By matching your cleaning approach to your slipper material, you protect your investment and ensure every step you take at home is a pleasure.