Blog
How to Wash and Clean Reef Shoes & Sandals
May 11, 2023
-
By
Sophia Grant
Most Reef shoes and sandals, except those made of leather, can be machine washed with cold water. However, they should never be put in the dryer as high temperatures can cause damage to the material.
About REEF
REEF was founded by two brothers, Santiago and Fernando Aguerre, both of whom are avid surfers, in 1984. Their goal was to create high-quality sandals – ones that could keep up with their active lifestyle.
After many years of running the company, the brand was acquired by VF Corporation, a global leader in lifestyle apparel and footwear. Then in 2011, the brand was sold to The Rockport Group.
More About Reef Shoes
REEF specializes in sandals, which are available in a variety of styles. Some of their products include leather sandals, water-friendly sandals, and slide sandals. They even have a line of sandals that come with a bottle opener on the bottom.
Price-wise, their shoes are quite affordable. Depending on the style, you’re looking at anywhere between $50 to $110. They also have frequent sales, which will bring the price down further.
How to Wash REEF Flip Flops
There’s more than one way to wash your REEF sandals. Here’s what you need to know.
Machine Washing Flip Flops
Their flip flops are machine washable, which makes them easy to clean.
Step 1: Remove Excess Dirt
Start by removing the dirt and mud on the soles. One of the easiest ways to do that is by clapping them together lightly. Alternatively, you can use a soft bristle brush.
Step 2: Put Them In a Laundry Bag
Next, place the flip-flops in a mesh laundry bag – it’ll prevent them from being thrown around during the wash cycle. If you don’t have a laundry bag that’s big enough, you can improvise with a pillowcase.
Step 3: Add ACTIVE Detergent
Measure one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and add it to the drum.
Step 4: Run a Wash Cycle
Choose a cold water setting and run a delicate wash cycle. Make sure not to use bleach or other chemicals as they can harm the shoes.
Once the cycle is finished, take the flip flops out and let them air dry in a well-ventilated room.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- Pillowcase (optional)
- Soft bristle brush
Do not put them in the dryer or under direct sunlight as it can damage the adhesives.
ACTIVE Detergent
Use our enzyme-based laundry detergent to keep your Reef footwear clean and odor-free
Cleaning Flip Flops By Hand
You can also gently clean each flip-flop by hand.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Sponge
- Water
- Soft bristle brush
Step 1:
Start by removing any excess dirt with a soft-bristled brush (you can also clap them together).
Step 2:
Mix a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent with warm water in a tub or large sink. Agitate it lightly with your hand until there are soap suds.
Step 3:
Dampen a soft sponge with the cleaning solution and use it to clean the affected areas.
Pay extra attention to the heel area as dirt tends to accumulate there.
Step 4:
When you’re finished, rinse the sponge with warm water and use it to remove detergent from the shoes.
The final step is to let them air dry at room temperature.
Cleaning Flip Flops By Hand – Option 2
Alternatively, you can soak the flip flops in an ACTIVE Detergent solution.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Sink
Step 1:
Combine ACTIVE Detergent with water in the sink (you can also use a tub) and place the flip flops in, making sure they are completely immersed.
Step 2:
Let them sit in the soapy water and soak them for at least 20 minutes. Then, rinse with clean water.
Continue rinsing until there are no more soap suds.
Cleaning Leather REEF Sandals
Most of their shoes are made from synthetic materials, however, they do have some that are made from leather. For those, you’ll want to wash them differently.
First and foremost, you never want to put them in the washing machine. The leather is delicate and can easily be damaged by the heat.
Instead, you want to wash them by hand. While you can use ACTIVE Detergent, it’s probably best to use a saddle soap or a leather conditioner.
Supplies:
- Leather conditioner
- Clean cloth
- Damp cloth
Step 1:
Add some leather conditioner to a clean cloth.
Step 2:
Gently wipe the surface of the sandals with the cloth.
When you’re finished, wipe off the conditioner with a damp cloth, and leave them in a well-ventilated space.
Never use water to clean leather sandals – it will permanently damage the material.
Deodorizing Your REEF Sandals/Shoes
Let’s face it—your REEF sandals are probably going to get stinky after a while. Here are a few easy ways to deodorize them:
Eliminating Odors With Baking Soda
Baking soda is super versatile and can be used to eliminate odors.
Simply sprinkle the powder onto the material and leave it on overnight.
The next morning, dump the powder. Rinse it with water if you have to. You’ll be surprised at the difference!
Eliminating Odor With Vinegar
Vinegar, or more specifically white vinegar, is also great for odors. To use it, dampen a sponge or cloth with the vinegar and use it to wipe the sandal. The vinegar scent will be gone as soon as they’re dry.
Put Them in the Freezer
Believe it or not, you can also deodorize your sandals by putting them in the freezer.
Simply place them in a plastic bag and put them in.
Remove them the next day and the odor will be gone. The cold temperature will kill off the odor-causing agents.
How to Wash REEF Shoes – FAQs
Can you wash REEF shoes with dish soap?
ACTIVE Detergent is the best option as it contains enzymes that will break down and dissolve oil, dirt, and residues. However, you can use dish soap in a pinch.
Should you clean REEF shoes with hot water or cold water?
It’s best to clean your REEF shoes with cold water as excessive heat may damage the material over time.
Can you wash REEF sneakers?
REEF sneakers should be hand washed using an ACTIVE Detergent solution. They should not be machine washed, as many styles contain suede components that can be damaged by soaking in water.
Can you wash REEF Neptune shoes?
REEF Neptune shoes contain suede components, and some styles are made entirely of leather, so they should be hand washed.
Can you put REEF sandals in the dryer?
You should never put REEF sandals in the dryer, as high heat can damage the material and cause it to warp.
How do you clean REEF cork sandals?
REEF cork sandals should be cleaned with an ACTIVE Detergent solution and a soft sponge. Avoid soaking them in water or putting them in the washing machine, as excess moisture can damage the cork material.
How do you get the smell out of REEF sandals?
You can deodorize your REEF sandals with baking soda or vinegar. Simply sprinkle baking soda over the sandals or lightly dampen them with vinegar. Alternatively, place the sandals in a sealed plastic bag and put them in the freezer.
Why do my REEF flip flops smell bad?
REEF flip flops can start to smell from a mix of sweat, bacteria, and dirt that builds up over time. Hot, humid weather can make the smell worse, especially if you wear them often without cleaning them.
How long do REEF sandals take to dry?
REEF sandals typically take several hours to dry completely, depending on how wet they are and the material. After cleaning, let them air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight to prevent damage.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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