Many people like Rainbow sandals, a leather flip-flop brand known for adapting to the shape of the wearer's feet. In early spring these shoes look perfect, but in late summer they can be dirty and muddy, as they have been covered in dust and sand for a long time. Fortunately, they are durable and it is not too difficult to restore them to their original splendor.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Get rid of the Dirt
Step 1. Prepare some soapy water
Use only lukewarm water, as too hot or boiling water can ruin the leather sole. Add a drop or two of dish soap and stir to blend the solution.
Step 2. Rub the sandals with a damp cloth
Dip a corner of the rag in the soapy water and squeeze it to remove excess moisture; gently wet and scrub the dirty areas using small circular movements.
- If there are some really dirty areas that you can't clean with the damp cloth, a soft-bristled brush, like an old toothbrush, can help.
- Be careful to apply just enough pressure to get rid of the dirt, without damaging the leather.
Step 3. Dry the sandals
Use clean kitchen paper to remove any moisture from your footwear. Do a careful job, because detergent residues can ruin the material.
It is a good idea to leave the sandals out in the open air and in the sun before wearing them again to make sure they dry completely
Method 2 of 3: Get rid of the smell
Step 1. Leave them in the sun
Before trying other more punchy techniques, try not to wear them for a while and let them dry in the sun for a few days. If they have recently started to smell, ultraviolet rays and fresh air may be all they need.
Even if it doesn't completely solve the problem, it's still a good idea to let them dry completely before attempting to clean them
Step 2. Use denatured alcohol
Highly concentrated alcohol is effective in eliminating unpleasant odors. Wet some kitchen paper with alcohol (make sure it's moist, but not too wet) and wrap it around the part of the sandals that comes into contact with your feet. Leave the paper in place for a couple of hours or until it dries.
Step 3. Sprinkle some vodka
Like denatured alcohol, this substance can also neutralize bad odors. Pour a small amount into a spray bottle and spray it on your sandals; then let them dry outdoors under the sun for several hours.
Step 4. Apply baking soda
It is a very effective substance for absorbing any type of unpleasant odor. Place the sandals in a 4L airtight bag and add 100g of baking soda. Seal the bag and shake it vigorously so that the shoes are completely covered with dust. Leave them undisturbed for a couple of days before unpacking them.
It will take some effort, but you should be able to get rid of all the baking soda by beating the sandals together and rubbing them with a clean rag
Method 3 of 3: Take Care of Your Feet to Not Ruin Your Sandals
Step 1. Wash your feet thoroughly
Having them clean allows you to keep the sandals tidy and odorless for a long time. Keep a bar of soap with deodorizing properties in the shower and use a cloth to vigorously scrub your feet; in this way you not only remove the dust and dirt that stain the sandals, but you also get rid of the dead cells that contribute to the bad smell.
Step 2. Dry your feet well
When you get out of the shower, don't stop drying yourself when you reach your ankles. Rub your feet thoroughly with a towel, paying particular attention to the area between the toes to avoid the development of mycosis.
If you have foot fungus problems, you should consider using a specific powder
Step 3. Spray an antiperspirant product on your feet
If they sweat a lot, this can be especially helpful. While powdered products absorb moisture, antiperspirants sprays stop sweating at the source. If you find that your feet sweat a lot when wearing sandals, applying a little product in the morning may help keep your shoes cleaner.
Step 4. Expose your feet to the sun's rays
Odor-causing fungi thrive in damp, dark environments such as shoe insoles. Stay barefoot every day for some time, preferably outdoors; lift them up and expose them to the sun. Just remember to rinse and dry them thoroughly in case they get dirty.
