Birkenstocks are known for their comfort and durability, but regular wear can lead to dirt buildup on the footbeds, straps, and soles. Proper cleaning will help maintain their look and extend their lifespan. Here’s how to clean your Birkenstocks.
Materials You Will Need:
- Soft-bristle brush (e.g., an old toothbrush)
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Suede brush (for suede or nubuck)
- Cork sealant (for cork soles)
- Damp cloth or sponge
- Water
- White vinegar (optional)
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Begin by removing any loose dirt from the Birkenstocks.
Use a Soft Brush: Take a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush and gently brush the surface of the footbed and straps to remove dirt, dust, or debris.
Brush Gently: Be careful to avoid scratching the surface, especially if your Birkenstocks have suede or nubuck straps.
Step 2: Clean the Footbed
The footbed of Birkenstocks is typically made of suede or leather and can become dirty with sweat and oils. Here’s how to clean it.
Make a Cleaning Paste: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste. The baking soda acts as a natural cleaner and deodorizer.
Scrub the Footbed: Using a damp cloth or sponge, apply the baking soda paste to the footbed and gently scrub in a circular motion. Focus on areas that are visibly dirty or stained.
Rinse and Wipe: After scrubbing, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the paste and dirt. Be sure not to soak the footbed, as too much water can damage the material.
Allow to Air Dry: Let the sandals air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which could cause the materials to warp or crack.
Step 3: Clean the Straps
The cleaning method for the straps depends on the material (leather, suede, or synthetic).
Leather Straps: Use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild dish soap to wipe down leather straps. Rinse the cloth and wipe again to remove soap residue, then dry with a soft towel.
Suede or Nubuck Straps: For suede or nubuck straps, use a suede brush to gently remove dirt and stains. You can also use a suede eraser to treat more stubborn marks.
Synthetic Straps: If your Birkenstocks have synthetic straps, wipe them down with a cloth dipped in warm soapy water. Rinse with a clean cloth and dry with a towel.
Step 4: Clean the Cork Soles
The cork soles of Birkenstocks can dry out and crack if not maintained properly.
Wipe with a Damp Cloth: Use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime from the cork soles.
Apply Cork Sealant: After cleaning, apply a cork sealant to the soles to protect them from drying out and cracking. This is especially important if you wear your Birkenstocks frequently.
Step 5: Deodorize (Optional)
If your Birkenstocks have developed an odor, you can deodorize them using natural methods.
Use Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside the footbed and leave it overnight to absorb odors. In the morning, brush off the baking soda.
White Vinegar: For a more thorough deodorizing, you can mix equal parts water and white vinegar, lightly spray the footbed, and allow it to air dry.
Step 6: Dry Your Birkenstocks Properly
After cleaning, it’s important to let your Birkenstocks dry properly to prevent damage.
Air Dry in Shade: Let your Birkenstocks air dry in a cool, shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat sources like radiators, as these can cause the materials to shrink or warp.
Avoid Wet Footbeds: Be cautious not to get the footbeds too wet during cleaning, as this can lead to watermarks or damage to the suede/leather.
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