How to Clean Jelly Shoes: A Step-by-Step Care Guide

One of the most loved things about jelly shoes: when they get dirty, there's no need to panic. Unlike leather shoes, they're washable, water-resistant and, with the right method, back to their day-one look in a few minutes.

Still, there are a few rules — ignore them and you could leave a permanent mark on the MELFLEX surface.

Everyday cleaning: 3 steps

1. Dust them off. Wipe the surface with a dry, soft cloth. Grains of sand and dust are the main cause of scratches during wet wiping.
2. Wipe with warm soapy water. Put warm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap in a bowl. Dip a soft cloth, wring it out and wipe the shoe in circular motions.
3. Rinse and dry. Remove the soap with a clean damp cloth, then dry with a dry cloth. Leave to dry in the shade at room temperature.

For stubborn stains

Inside the shoe (insole): For marks left by sweat, mix a little baking soda with water into a paste, gently rub with a soft brush and rinse.

Color transfer: Light-colored jellies can pick up color from dark denim or socks. Caught early, it comes off: wipe with soapy water; if it doesn't budge, gently rub with a very small amount of white toothpaste and rinse immediately.

Sticky residue (labels, gum): Leave the shoe in the fridge for a few minutes until the residue hardens, then lift it off with your fingernail.

Never do this

• Don't put them in the washing machine. Heat and spinning permanently deform the shape.
• Don't use hot water. MELFLEX softens with heat; warm water is enough.
• Don't use abrasive cleaners, bleach or acetone. They leave the surface dull.
• Don't dry on a radiator or in direct sun. The shoe may lose its shape.
• Don't use a stiff brush. Only a soft cloth or a very soft toothbrush.

Bringing back the shine

Over time the surface may dull a little. After cleaning, put a drop of baby oil on a dry cloth, apply a thin layer, then remove the excess with a clean cloth. The shoe returns to its day-one shine. Too much oil can make it slippery — a little goes a long way.

Storing them right

Don't leave jelly shoes under weight; if they stay pressed for a long time, the shape can deform. Store them in their box, not stacked, somewhere out of direct sunlight. If you're putting them away for a long time, a little tissue paper inside helps keep their form.

At the end of their life

MELFLEX is a recyclable material. Instead of throwing away Melissas you no longer wear, you can drop them off at plastic (PVC) recycling points in your area. The recycled material is turned into new products, from flooring to furniture.

Curious about what jelly is made of and why it's so durable? Read our article on what a jelly shoe is.