After a long day at work, the last thing that you want to feel when you get home is discomfort. So why keep your shoes on for longer than you have to when a heavenly alternative is waiting for you at your front door?
Kick off those confining brogues and painful stilettos; it’s slipper time!
Whether you know them as house shoes, crib kicks, mocs or slippers, this indoor footwear staple is a must-have for every member of the family. Providing comfort and warmth, (often with the added bonus of protection against stubbing your toe) once you find your perfect pair, you’ll never want to take them off!
But what types of slippers are there, how do you wash them and who invented them? Keep reading our useful guide to find out more.
The inventor of these cosy footwear essentials
It may be hard to believe, but this snug style of footwear is not a revolutionary, modern invention that can be attributed to a millionaire businessperson; slippers – or certainly the concept – are centuries old.
Exactly who invented slippers remains distinctly unclear. There’s speculation about their definite origin but the idea was said to be born in the East in the 12th Century, before travelling its way across the world to be discovered in the West in 1478.
By the mid-16th century, most wealthy men actually chose to wear slippers to match their outfit. Often made from luxurious materials such as silk, velvet and leather, and adorned with jewels and ribbons, the shoes started to morph into the slippers we know and love today.
No matter their origin or inventor, we’re certainly glad they exist now!
How do you wash your mucky moccasins?
Been gifted a brand-spanking new pair of slippers for Christmas? If you want to keep their suede feeling soft and the leather in top condition, it’s important that you know how to wash slippers correctly.
We don’t blame you for wanting to take the easy route when it comes to cleaning – why spend more time washing your dirty slippers than you need to? If they’re made of cotton, they should be washing-machine safe; just make sure to put them on a gentle wash using warm water so you don’t shrink them!
Here are some other top tips we’ve learnt along the way;
- Hand-washing is a more delicate option for your fabric slips. Fill your sink with warm water, mix in some mild laundry detergent and let them soak for ten minutes before gently rubbing with a cloth. Rinse out any remaining soap and leave them to air dry
- If you can’t wait to put your slippers back on, use the warm air setting on a blow-dryer to speed up the process – this is especially great for styles with soft, fluffy insides!
- Try to avoid wringing wet slippers (you wouldn’t want your favourite pair to majorly misshape)
- For suede slippers, blot away any stains or spillages with a clean towel. If the stain has already done the damage, use a suede brush and cleaning solution to restore them to their former glory
- For leather and suede slippers, don’t use heat but instead, allow them to air dry and use a wad of newspaper inside to help them dry
- Only use a leather-safe soap for your leather slippers – you can use ordinary leather cleaner to remove any minor dirt or scuffs
How to stop slippers smelling
It’s completely normal for your slippers to wear over time and develop an odour, but how do you prevent them from smelling in the first place?
A handy solution to slipper stench could be lurking right under your nose. Dryer sheets (especially the scented variety) can work wonders; place a few sheets into your slippers overnight to help prevent odours from building up.
Bicarbonate of soda can also be a household hack when you’re looking to refresh the interior of your slippers. Sprinkle a good amount inside and leave for a few hours (leave for longer depending on the smell!) before vacuuming them out with the nozzle attachment.
For fabric and fleece-lined slippers, baby wipes are ideal when you don’t want to go the whole hog with washing them. Rub one or two wipes inside until dirt no longer transfers and you’re good to go!
The types of slippers on offer
There are many styles and colours when it comes to these loungewear titans. We’ve narrowed down a few key styles so you can take your pick;
- Slipper boots – ideal for the winter months, this style can be made from materials such as faux fur, knit fabrics, suede and wool. Often a popular choice with women and girls alike, your toes definitely won’t feel the cold with these cosy booties.
- Mules – a backless slipper, this design is a great choice for both men and women and is especially handy if you’re on the go (you can slip them on and off with ease). Available with closed or open front, a mule slipper combines comfort with practicality.
- Novelty slippers – this fun slipper type is bound to raise smiles all-around, especially for younger girls and boys. With designs ranging from wild animals to trending film characters, there’s definitely something for everyone!
Slippers for people who don’t do slippers
Not a slipper supporter? We understand that they might not be for everyone – and that’s okay. But we’ve come across a couple of styles that might just persuade you;
- Full slippers (aka. closed slippers) – this slipper style completely surrounds your foot for maximum comfort, the closed back preventing them from sliding off. Available with various lining options such as faux fur and fleece, this durable, shoe-like silhouette will leave you never wanting to take them off.
- Moccasins – made from soft leather and suede, this style is ideal for wearing around the house while still wanting to look the part as they look very similar to loafers. The lightweight construction and cosy lining options make them a great choice for those who are unsure about wearing slippers.
Fancy treating yourself to a new pair after reading this post? If you’re wondering where to buy slippers, you’ve come to the right place! Check out our collection of affordable slippers at Wynsors, for men, women and kids.
 
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