How to care for wool slippers?

Caring for your wool slippers is essential to prolong their lifespan and maintain their comfort. Wool is a fiber with remarkable properties that make this care easy. Here is a complete guide to caring for and cleaning your wool slippers.

Prevention and daily maintenance

The wool lining your slippers has natural properties that make it low-maintenance. It naturally repels and eliminates unpleasant odors while also being thermoregulating and comfortable. To prevent the development of unpleasant smells, simple daily steps can be taken:

• Air out your slippers regularly by placing them in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid storing them in a confined space where air circulation is poor and moisture can accumulate.
• Avoid wearing dirty or damp socks with your slippers; opt for clean cotton socks that will absorb perspiration.
• For natural leather slippers, apply a waterproofing spray upon receipt to protect them from dust and stains. Repeat the application regularly to maintain effectiveness.
• When you are not wearing your slippers (for example in summer), it is advisable to store them in a protective cotton bag.
• Gently brush your slippers with a suitable brush to restore tone to the fur and remove dust.

Interior cleaning

Daily airing is often enough to freshen the inside of your slippers. If a deep cleaning is necessary, several natural and effective methods are available:

• Baking soda : Sprinkle a heaping tablespoon of baking soda inside your slippers and pat the sides to distribute it. Leave it for several hours (ideally overnight). The baking soda will act like a dry shampoo, deodorizing and absorbing dirt. Then, remove the baking soda over a sink, or use a vacuum cleaner (low power) or a slightly damp towel/washcloth to remove it.
• Newspaper : Place newspaper inside your slippers to help absorb moisture and odors. Remember to change the paper regularly as it absorbs moisture.
• Citrus peels : Place citrus peels (in season) in your slippers for 24 hours. They will absorb bad odors and leave a pleasant fragrance.
• White vinegar and essential oils : To neutralize odors, spray a mixture of water and white vinegar, or lavender or mint essential oil, inside. Wipe everything with a clean cloth after a few hours.
• If treatment with bicarbonate is not enough, you can clean the inside with a damp sponge and stain-removing soap, making sure to dry thoroughly afterwards with a soft cloth and ventilate.

Exterior cleaning and stain removal

The fabric of the slippers is resistant and not afraid of water.

• For unstained fabric : Simply use a soft brush or a towel (dry or slightly damp) and gently rub the fabric to remove accumulated dust and small dirt.
• For stains :
  • Take a sponge lightly moistened with a natural soap (like Marseille soap) and gently rub the stain in a circular motion.
  • A stain-removing stick made from Sommières clay and natural soap (made in France) is very effective against dirt and stains (grease, coffee).
  • After cleaning, rinse gently using a damp sponge or wipe with a clean cloth.
  • For a coffee stain, act quickly by blotting the liquid with a cloth or absorbent paper. Then dab the stain with a clean cloth soaked in a solution of warm water and white vinegar until it disappears, and finally rinse with clean water.
  • For a wine stain, quickly absorb the liquid with a cloth, then sprinkle Sommières clay on the stain, leave for an hour, and brush off the excess powder.
  • For a mud stain, wait until the mud is dry before cleaning it. Brush off any excess dry dirt.

Cleaning the sole

The method for cleaning the sole depends on its material:

• Elastomer or rubber soles : Simply wipe with a damp cloth with a little soap, then dry with a cloth.
• Wool felt soles : Avoid getting them wet as they may be damaged . It is not recommended to use them for walking outdoors. For indoor use, you can dust them with an adhesive lint roller, repeating the process if necessary.
• Cork soles (like some Löwenweiss clogs) : These should not be soaked in water or machine washed. Remove dirt with a brush or vacuum cleaner, then clean them with a damp cloth or a moistened soft-bristled brush, without using soap or detergent .

Washing wool slippers

Some models of wool slippers can be machine washed or hand washed, but it is always best to refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Machine washable (if indicated by the manufacturer) :
  • Place the slippers in a net.
  • Use a wool/delicate program.
  • The temperature should not exceed 30°C maximum , or even in cold water.
  • Select the lowest or moderate spin speed (maximum 400 revolutions per minute).
  • Use a detergent for delicate fabrics or wool, without fabric softener . A natural detergent based on black soap is suggested.
  • For Löwenweiss slippers, fill the washing machine with other clothes (even of other materials) to prevent the shoes from damaging the drum by hitting it.
• Hand wash :
  • First remove the dirt and dust using a brush or vacuum cleaner.
  • Soak the slippers in cold or lukewarm water with a detergent for delicate fabrics, agitating them gently.
  • Let them soak for a maximum of 10 minutes.
  • Rinse them in clean water for about ten minutes, or under running water for 2-3 minutes, until all the laundry detergent is removed.
  • Do not wring them out; remove excess water by pressing the slippers in different places to prevent them from deforming.

Drying

Drying is a crucial step for wool slippers:

• Let them air dry on a clothesline.
• Never expose them to a heat source (radiator, tumble dryer) or direct sunlight , as this could cause them to warp, shrink, or fade. The sole may take a while to dry and may drip initially.
• After washing, gently reshape the damp slippers with your hands to restore their original form. You can also wear them for a few seconds while they are still damp to allow them to mold to the shape of your foot.
• To help them maintain their shape while drying, you can stuff the slippers with a ball of newspaper. Remember to change the paper regularly as it absorbs moisture.
• Make sure the slippers are completely dry before storing or putting them on. You can dry them beforehand with a towel after machine washing.

If, despite all your care, your slippers are too damaged, deformed, discolored or have holes, it may be time to get yourself a new pair.

Taking care of your wool slippers is a bit like maintaining a good book: gentle and regular use, protection against the elements that could damage it, and occasional repairs if needed, allow you to enjoy its comfort and warmth for many years.