Adidas slides, including the popular Adilette and Adissage styles, have become a go-to footwear choice for many. Their sporty style, comfort, and versatility make them ideal for wearing just about anywhere. However, after heavy use, Adidas slides can start to look (and smell!) a little worse for wear. Regular cleaning is key to keeping your slides in top condition.
Cleaning your Adidas slides helps remove dirt, debris, and bacteria that can lead to odors and shorten the lifespan of your shoes. The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you wear them, but a good rule of thumb is to give them a wash at least every few weeks during heavy rotation.
- What You’ll Need
- Removing Debris
- Washing
- Drying
- Stubborn Stains
- Freshening Insoles
- When to Avoid Getting Them Wet
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How often should I wash my Adidas slides?
- What is the best way to wash my Adidas slides?
- Can I put my Adidas slides in the washing machine?
- Can I machine wash my Adidas slides?
- Can I put my Adidas slides in the dryer?
- Can I wear my Adidas slides in the rain?
- Can I wear my Adidas slides for running or other athletic activities?
- Conclusion

Cleaning Adidas slides is a quick and simple process. With just a few household products and following some key tips, you can have your slides looking fresh in no time.
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, you’ll want to gather a few supplies:
- Mild Detergent – Look for a gentle liquid soap or detergent, rather than heavier-duty formulas. Dish soap works well.
- Warm Water – The water should be warm but not hot enough to damage the slides.
- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush – The toothbrush bristles help gently scrub away dirt.
- Microfiber Cloth – For drying and buffing your slides after washing.
Removing Debris
Start by brushing off any loose dirt, mud, or debris from the surface of your slides using your hand or soft brush. Pay extra attention to the soles where debris can become embedded.
Next, create a cleaning solution of warm water and a small amount of mild detergent in a bowl. Take the soft bristle toothbrush and dip it in the solution. Gently scrub over the surface of the slides to lift dirt and stains. Focus on the textured sole and sides.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
Washing
For a deeper clean, you’ll want to wash the slides more thoroughly:
- Fill a bowl with warm water and add a couple of drops of mild detergent. Stir to combine.
- Using a soft bristle toothbrush, dip into the solution and scrub the entire surface of the slides. Clean the sole, sides, and top.
- Pay close attention to any stains or heavily soiled areas. Lightly scrub back and forth without applying too much pressure.
- Once finished scrubbing, rinse the slides under running water until all suds have been removed.
Drying
Proper drying is key to ensuring slides maintain their shape and don’t develop odors.
- Pat dry the surface of the slides with a clean microfiber cloth, soaking up excess water. Don’t rub too vigorously.
- Allow the slides to completely air dry before wearing them again. Place on a drying rack or stuff with paper towels to help maintain shape as they dry.
- Avoid placing wet slides directly in sunlight or using heat to dry, as this can damage the material.
Stubborn Stains
For challenging stains that won’t budge with regular washing, try these techniques:
- Baking Soda Paste – Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a paste. Use a clean toothbrush to gently scrub the stained area using this paste. Rinse thoroughly.
- Vinegar – Full-strength white vinegar can help break down stubborn stains. Dip a toothbrush in vinegar and scrub stains. Rinse thoroughly once stains have lifted.
- Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide – Softly scrub stained areas with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution mixed with water. Rinse well. Spot test first.
Always spot-test any of these cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area before applying them to the entire slide surface to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or other damage.
Freshening Insoles
The insoles of your slides can collect odors and dirt just like the soles. It’s a good idea to remove the insoles and wash them separately.
- Carefully remove insoles from the slides. This may require gently pulling along the edges.
- In a bowl, mix warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Scrub the insoles with a soft brush, then rinse until water runs clear.
- Pat dry with a towel and allow insoles to fully air dry before replacing the slides.
When to Avoid Getting Them Wet
While it’s fine to wash most Adidas slides with the methods above, there are a few cases where getting them wet should be avoided:
- Leather Slides – Spot clean leather slides to avoid damage. Don’t submerge in water.
- Suede Slides – Use a suede brush and cleaner safely designed for suede. Avoid excessive water.
- Soaking – Don’t soak slides or wash them in the washing machine, as this can ruin their shape.
Stick to spot cleaning only for leather and suede styles. For other slides, gently hand wash without fully soaking through.
Conclusion
With some basic cleaning techniques and proper care, your beloved Adidas slides can stay fresh and last season after season. Focus on routine light cleaning along with occasional deeper scrubbing for best results. Avoid soaking, heat, and harsh chemicals that can damage the slides. Your feet will thank you for taking the time to clean your slides properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my Adidas slides?
It is recommended that you wash your Adidas slides every two weeks to keep them clean and free of any build-up.
What is the best way to wash my Adidas slides?
The best way to wash your Adidas slides is to use mild soap or detergent and warm water. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or scrubbing too forcefully, as this can damage the material.
Can I put my Adidas slides in the washing machine?
Yes, you can put your Adidas slides in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with mild soap or detergent. However, it is recommended that you hand wash them whenever possible to extend their lifespan.
Can I machine wash my Adidas slides?
It is not recommended to machine wash Adidas slides, as the high heat and tumbling motion of the washing machine can damage the materials and cause the shoes to lose their shape. Instead, it is best to hand wash the slides using mild detergent and warm water.
Can I put my Adidas slides in the dryer?
It is not recommended to put Adidas slides in the dryer, as the high heat can cause the materials to break down and fade. Instead, allow the slides to air dry naturally by stuffing them with newspaper or a towel to help them maintain their shape, and placing them in a well-ventilated area.
Can I wear my Adidas slides in the rain?
It is not recommended to wear Adidas slides in the rain, as the water can cause the materials to become damaged and the shoes to become uncomfortable to wear. If you need to wear shoes in wet conditions, consider opting for a pair of waterproof shoes instead.
Can I wear my Adidas slides for running or other athletic activities?
Adidas slides are not designed for running or other athletic activities. They are intended to be worn as casual, leisure shoes and may not provide the support and cushioning needed for high-impact activities. If you need shoes for running or other athletic activities, consider looking for a pair of performance sneakers or running shoes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Adidas slides are a popular choice for casual, leisure footwear. To keep your slides in good condition, it is important to avoid getting them wet, exposing them to high heat or direct sunlight, and wearing them for running or other athletic activities. To clean your slides, use a mild detergent and warm water, and allow them to air dry naturally. By following these care tips, you can help your Adidas slides stay comfortable and stylish for as long as possible.