Few things are more frustrating than finding your favourite Crocs suddenly feel a size smaller. Shrinking usually happens because of heat, and once it happens, it is hard to reverse. The good news is that a few simple habits can keep your Crocs the right size for much longer.
In this guide
Why Crocs Shrink
Most Crocs are made from Croslite™, a soft, light closed-cell material. Croslite is sensitive to heat. When it gets too hot, it can shrink or change shape. Crocs advises keeping its footwear away from excessive heat. Our guide on why Crocs shrink in heat explains the causes in detail.
Habit 1: Never Leave Crocs in a Hot Car
Cars can become very hot inside on warm days, even when it does not feel extremely hot outside. Take your Crocs with you rather than leaving them on the seat or in the boot.
Imagine a day at the beach. On the way home, you stop for food and leave your Crocs on the dashboard in the sun. By the time you return, they may already be damaged. Taking them inside with you avoids the risk completely.
Habit 2: Keep Them Away From Heaters and Fires
Do not dry wet Crocs on radiators, near heaters or close to fires. Let them dry naturally in a shaded, airy spot instead.
Habit 3: Wash in Cold or Lukewarm Water
Hot water can affect Croslite. Wash your Crocs by hand with cold or lukewarm water and mild soap. Our guide on how to clean Crocs explains the safe method.
Habit 4: Skip Machines and Dryers
Washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers can expose Crocs to high heat. Our guides on washing Crocs in a washing machine and putting Crocs in a dishwasher explain the risks.
Habit 5: Store Them in a Cool Place
Store your Crocs away from direct sunlight, such as on a sunny windowsill or in a hot garden shed. A cool, dry spot indoors is best.
Habit 6: Be Careful in Hot Weather
On very hot days, avoid leaving Crocs on hot surfaces such as sun-baked decking for long periods. Keep them in the shade when you take them off.
What If Your Crocs Have Already Shrunk?
There is no guaranteed way to reverse heat shrinkage. Some methods shared online involve more heat, which can make damage worse. If a pair no longer fits comfortably, it may be time for a new one. Our Crocs size chart can help you choose the right size.
Final Thoughts
Preventing Crocs from shrinking comes down to one rule: keep them away from heat. Avoid hot cars, heaters, dryers and hot water, and store them somewhere cool. These simple habits help your Crocs keep their shape and fit.
Which habit will you start today to protect your Crocs?
