Your Rothy’s clogs are more than just shoes—they’re a favorite part of your daily style. But keeping them looking fresh can be tricky if you don’t know the right way to clean them.
I wear my pair on coffee runs, school drop-offs, and flights. They’re comfy, durable, and go with almost everything. The secret to keeping them crisp? A simple, gentle cleaning routine you can do at home—no special gear, no stress.
Imagine slipping on a pair that looks brand new every time you wear them. In this guide, you’ll discover simple, effective steps to clean your Rothy’s clogs without damaging their unique material. Ready to make your shoes shine like the first day you got them?
Keep reading and learn how easy it can be to care for your favorite clogs.
Materials Needed
Cleaning your Rothy’s clogs keeps them looking fresh and lasting longer. Using the right materials makes the process easy and effective. Gather simple items you probably already have at home. These tools help remove dirt without damaging the shoes. I keep a tiny “shoe-care kit” by the door so cleanups take two minutes, tops.
Soft Cloth Or Sponge
A soft cloth or sponge gently wipes away dirt. Microfiber works best because it lifts dust without snagging. Avoid rough materials that might scratch the surface. Use a damp (not dripping) cloth to clean stains and dust.
Mild Soap
Choose a mild soap like dish detergent or gentle hand soap. These cut through grime without stripping color. Strong chemicals can harm the fabric and color. Mix the soap with warm water for cleaning. A drop or two goes a long way.
Cold Water
Use cold water to rinse your clogs. Hot water can shrink or warp the material. Cold water keeps the shape intact during cleaning. It also helps reduce color bleed.
Old Toothbrush
An old toothbrush helps scrub hard-to-reach areas. It works well on textured or patterned parts and around seams. Use soft bristles to avoid damage. I like a baby toothbrush for extra control.
Towel
A towel dries your clogs after cleaning. Pat them gently to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing, which can cause wear or misshape. A clean, absorbent towel speeds up dry time.
Optional Extras (Nice To Have)
– A lint roller to lift pet hair and lint
– Baking soda for deodorizing insoles
– A small fan for faster, safe drying
– Protective spray for fabric footwear (gentle, non-silicone, color-safe)
Preparing Your Clogs
Preparing your Rothy’s clogs is the first step to a proper clean. It helps remove dirt and dust on the surface. This step prevents damage during washing. Clean clogs last longer and look better. I never skip prep—it makes actual cleaning faster and gentler.
Start by gathering the right tools and cleaning supplies. This makes the process faster and easier. Also, check the clogs for any loose threads or damage. Fix these before cleaning to avoid more problems.
Remove Loose Dirt And Debris
Gently tap the clogs together outside to shake off dirt. Use a soft brush to sweep away dust and small particles. Pay attention to seams and edges where dirt hides. Avoid using hard brushes that can harm the fabric. A quick once-over saves you from pushing dirt deeper later.
Take Out The Insoles
Remove the insoles carefully from your clogs. Clean them separately for better results. Wipe insoles with a damp cloth and mild soap. Let them air dry before placing back inside the shoes. Separating insoles also helps reduce odor.
Check For Stains
Look closely for any stains on your clogs. Spot clean these areas with a gentle cleaner. Use a soft cloth or sponge to dab the stain lightly. Avoid scrubbing hard to protect the material. Work from the outside of the stain toward the center to prevent spreading.
Do A Quick Colorfastness Test
Dab your soap-and-water mix on a hidden area (like inside the collar). Blot with a white cloth. If color transfers, dilute your mix more and proceed carefully. This 30-second test protects your clogs and your peace of mind.
Cleaning The Exterior
Cleaning the exterior of your Rothy’s clogs keeps them looking fresh. Dirt and dust build up fast. Regular cleaning protects the material. It also helps your shoes last longer. I give mine a light wipe once a week and a deeper clean after messy days.
Use gentle methods to avoid damage. Follow these steps to clean the outside of your clogs safely.
Removing Surface Dirt
Start by wiping off loose dirt. Use a soft brush or dry cloth. Brush gently in one direction. This removes dust without scratching the fabric. Avoid scrubbing hard. It can push dirt deeper into the material. A lint roller is great for quick touch-ups.
Using Mild Soap And Water
Mix a small amount of mild soap with water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution. Wring out extra water to keep it damp. Gently wipe the clog’s surface. Focus on dirty spots without soaking the shoe. Rinse the cloth often and repeat. Let clogs air dry at room temperature. For best results, clean both shoes the same way so the finish looks even.
Handling Stubborn Stains
For tough stains, use a soft brush with soap solution. Lightly scrub the stained area in circles. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. They can ruin the color. Dab the spot with a damp cloth to remove soap. Dry with a clean towel. Repeat if needed, but be patient. Slow and steady protects the knit.
Cleaning The Soles And Edges
Use your toothbrush and soapy water to scrub the rubber outsole and sidewalls. Wipe away residue with a damp cloth. This small step makes the whole shoe look newer and helps prevent grime from creeping into the knit.
Credit: rothys.com
Spot-Cleaning Specific Stains
Different messes need different moves. Here’s how I tackle the most common stains on knit clogs without risking damage.
Mud And Dirt
Let mud dry fully first. Brush off flakes with a soft brush. Then wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry mud lifts easier and prevents smearing.
Oily Spots And Food Splatters
Blot oil right away with a dry paper towel. Sprinkle a little baking soda on the spot for 15–20 minutes to draw out the oil. Brush off, then dab with a tiny drop of dish soap and cold water. Rinse by blotting with a clean damp cloth.
Grass, Street Grime, Or Dusty Film
Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap. For lingering green tints, repeat with gentle circular motions. Avoid bleach-based removers—they can fade color.
Salt Stains (From Winter Streets)
Mix one part white vinegar with four parts cold water. Lightly dab the stain, then blot with a clean damp cloth to remove residue. Test first on a hidden area to be safe.
Cleaning The Insoles
Cleaning the insoles of your Rothy’s clogs keeps them fresh and comfortable. Dirt and sweat build up inside, causing odor and wear. Regular cleaning helps maintain their fit and feel. I refresh mine weekly if I’m wearing them all day.
Detaching Insoles
Start by gently removing the insoles from your clogs. Hold the heel and carefully pull the insole up. Avoid using sharp tools to prevent damage. Detaching makes cleaning easier and more effective.
Washing And Drying
Wash the insoles with mild soap and lukewarm water. Use a soft cloth or brush to scrub lightly. Rinse well to remove all soap. Let the insoles air dry completely before placing them back. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. This keeps the insoles in good shape and ready for use. If odor lingers, sprinkle a bit of baking soda, let sit overnight, then shake it out.
Optional Odor Reset (Gentle)
For stubborn smells, do a quick soak: mix one teaspoon of mild soap in a bowl of cool water, add a splash of white vinegar (no more than 1:8 vinegar-to-water). Soak insoles for 5–10 minutes, rinse well, and air dry. Always patch-test and avoid soaking the knit uppers.
Drying Tips
Drying your Rothy’s clogs properly is key to keeping them in great shape. Wet shoes can lose their form or develop odors. This section covers simple, effective drying tips. Follow these steps to help your clogs dry safely and last longer.
Avoiding Direct Heat
Never place your Rothy’s clogs near direct heat sources. Avoid heaters, radiators, or direct sunlight. High heat can warp the material and weaken the shoe’s structure. Instead, let your clogs dry naturally at room temperature. This protects their shape and keeps them comfortable.
Proper Air Circulation
Good air flow speeds up drying and prevents bad smells. Place your clogs in a well-ventilated area. You can use a fan to help move air around. Avoid tight spaces where moisture can build up. Proper air circulation helps your clogs dry evenly and stay fresh.
Shape Care And Dry-Time Guide
Stuff the toe box with clean paper towels to help hold shape. Replace once they’re damp. Most pairs dry in 6–12 hours depending on humidity. I clean mine in the evening and they’re ready by morning.
Maintaining Shine And Freshness
Keeping your Rothy’s clogs shiny and fresh helps them last longer. Regular care makes them look new and feel comfortable. Simple steps protect the material and keep odors away. This part explains how to maintain your clogs’ shine and freshness. It’s the easy routine I use between deep cleans.
Applying Protective Spray
Use a protective spray made for fabric shoes. It shields your clogs from dirt and stains. Spray evenly on clean, dry shoes. Let them dry completely before wearing. This creates a barrier that keeps clogs looking bright.
Reapply the spray every few weeks. This keeps protection strong and effective. Avoid sprays with harsh chemicals. Choose gentle options to protect the shoe’s material. Always test on a hidden spot first.
