How to Clean Birkenstock Sandals

What You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Water
• Soft brush or toothbrush
• White vinegar
• Clean cloth
• Suede brush (for footbed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Clean the footbed

   Mix baking soda and water into a paste. Apply to the cork footbed with a soft brush and scrub gently. This removes foot oils, sweat stains, and odor.

2. 2

   Wipe off the paste

   Use a damp cloth to wipe away the baking soda. For stubborn dark spots on the footbed, dab with white vinegar.

3. 3

   Clean the straps

   For leather straps, wipe with a barely damp cloth. For synthetic straps, scrub with soapy water and a brush.

4. 4

   Condition the cork sole

   Apply a thin layer of cork sealant or coconut oil to the cork edges to prevent drying and cracking.

5. 5

   Air dry completely

   Let Birkenstocks dry at room temperature overnight before wearing. Stuff the toe area lightly with paper to absorb moisture.

Pro Tips

• TIPThe dark imprint on the footbed is normal and a sign of proper fit. You don't need to remove it completely.
• TIPSeal the cork edges with Birkenstock cork sealant twice a year to prevent cracking and water damage.
• TIPNever wear Birkenstocks in rain or puddles -- water swells the cork and can delaminate the sole from the footbed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XSoaking Birkenstocks in water, which swells the cork and can cause the sole to separate from the footbed.
• XUsing a washing machine, which destroys the cork, leather, and adhesive in one cycle.
• XWearing Birkenstocks without socks in wet conditions, which accelerates footbed breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions