Fashion

Clean Your Havaianas This Way So They Last

It's the unofficial start of summer and that means it's flip-flop, espadrille, and open-toe shoe season. If you're like me, you have a trusty pair (or four) of Havaianas flip-flops. How do you clean Havaianas flip-flops? A broken in, comfy pair of Havaianas can last you all summer (and beyond) if you take good care of them. Trust me, it's so easy to clean these beach bag essentials and it doesn't involve throwing your Havaianas in the washing machine. Don't even think about trying that, since you can damage your Havs beyond repair.

You are going to get cute pedicures —I have been rocking Kylie Jenner's Denim & Bling Sinful Colors polish for my pedis since the weather broke— and you want to show off your toes in easy, beach-ready shoes. Havaianas flip-flops "foot" that bill, for sure.

The affordable flip-flops come in a variety of colors and styles, from basic black to metallic, slim thongs to colorful, graphic foot beds. I especially rock Havaianas when I have oceanside plans. Havaianas are always maj comfy, the salt and sand can be easily rinsed off, and they look cute with leggings, skinnies, dresses, cut-offs, sweats, whatever. They go with everything, transition from day to night, and will last if you care for them properly.

Havaianas have rubber soles crafted in "a top secret, premium Brazilian rubber formula." They are porous and can get dirty quickly, according to Clean My Space. But before shelling out another $20 on a new pair, try these cleaning methods.

1. Baking Soda, Water, & Toothbrush

Mix a little baking soda, and water. Apply to mixture the bed. Scrub with an old toothbrush. Rinse while scrubbing. Use the mixture on the bed and the bottom to fully freshen these babies up.

2. Bucket List

Another super simple way to clean your Havaianas is to soak them in a bucket. Mix laundry detergent with warm water. Let the flippies soak in the soapy bucket for 30 minutes. Rinse them with water and a sponge. Then, let them dry in the sun, according to e-How.

3. Basic Soap & Water

The official word from the Havaianas Australia website is pretty much the same method as prescribed above. The brand recommends rinsing with mild soap and water and cleaning by hand. Washing machines are highly discouraged.

There's the the brand's recommendation in black and white! It's understandable that light or white Havaianas may never be restored to pristine condition. You may not remove all the stains, but you can improve their cleanliness.

All of these methods seem gentle and effective. See which one works for you and your Havs.

Images: Courtesy Havaianas (3); Havaianas USA/Instagram (1)