Check the care label first. Cotton, terry and fleece slippers can usually go in the washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle inside a mesh bag. Suede, sheepskin, wool and leather slippers should be cleaned by hand, with as little water as possible. All slippers should be air dried, never tumble dried on high heat.
In this guide
Quick guide by material
| Material | Machine wash? | How to clean |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton, terry cloth | Yes, cold and gentle | Mesh bag, mild detergent, air dry |
| Fleece, synthetic plush, faux fur | Usually, if the label allows | Mesh bag, cold water, no fabric softener |
| Memory foam insoles | Check the label | Hand wash is safer; squeeze, do not wring |
| Suede | No | Dry brush, spot clean, minimal water |
| Sheepskin and wool | No | Hand wash with wool detergent in cool water |
| Leather | No | Wipe with a damp soapy cloth, then condition |
How to wash cotton and fleece slippers
- Brush or wipe the soles to remove loose dirt.
- Pre-treat stains with a little liquid detergent, rubbed in with a soft brush.
- Place the slippers in a mesh laundry bag or a tied pillowcase.
- Wash on a cold, gentle cycle with a small amount of mild detergent. Skip fabric softener, which coats the fibres and makes them less absorbent.
- Reshape and air dry. Stuff the toes with a dry towel or plain paper and leave them in an airy spot.
To wash by hand instead, soak them for 10 minutes in cool soapy water, squeeze gently, rinse until the water runs clear, and press out the water in a towel.
How to clean suede slippers
- Brush off dry dirt with a suede brush, working in one direction.
- Spot clean marks with a suede eraser, or dab with a cloth lightly dampened with white vinegar.
- Clean the lining. Wipe the inside with a cloth dipped in cool water and a drop of mild or wool detergent, then wipe again with clean water.
- Dry slowly at room temperature, stuffed with paper, then brush the nap back up.
The full method for suede is in our guide to cleaning suede shoes.
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How to clean sheepskin and wool slippers
- Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of wool or sheepskin detergent.
- Dip a sponge or cloth and gently clean the outside and the wool lining. Avoid soaking the slipper through.
- Rinse by wiping with a clean damp cloth.
- Press with a towel to remove water. Do not wring or twist.
- Stuff with paper and dry away from heat and sunlight. Heat shrinks sheepskin and makes it stiff.
- When dry, fluff the wool with your fingers or a soft brush.
How to clean leather slippers
- Wipe off dust with a dry cloth.
- Clean with a cloth dampened in water with a drop of mild soap.
- Wipe away the soap with a clean damp cloth and buff dry.
- Apply a small amount of leather conditioner once dry.
How to remove odour from slippers
- Sprinkle baking soda inside, leave overnight, then shake or vacuum it out.
- Let slippers air out for a day between wears if you can; rotating two pairs helps.
- Wear clean socks, or wash your feet before putting slippers on barefoot.
- Replace removable insoles when they stay smelly after washing.
Drying slippers safely
- Air dry at room temperature with good airflow.
- Keep them off radiators and out of direct sun.
- Tumble dry only if the label says so, on low heat. High heat can melt glue, shrink fabric and warp rubber soles.
- Expect 24 hours for thick or memory foam slippers to dry fully. Wearing them damp encourages odour.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put slippers in the washing machine?
Cotton, terry and most fleece slippers, yes, on a cold gentle cycle in a mesh bag. Suede, sheepskin, wool and leather slippers should not be machine washed.
How often should slippers be washed?
About once a month with regular wear, or sooner if they smell or look dirty.
Can I wash slippers with rubber soles?
Yes, if the uppers are machine washable. Use cold water and air dry, because heat can loosen the glue that holds the sole on.
Why did my slippers shrink?
Hot water or a hot dryer. Wash cold and air dry to keep their size and shape.
