Even Barbie understood that you’re choosing comfort when you go for Birkenstocks – they’re versatile, you can wear them from beach to bar, and they work with most everyday casual outfits. One thing about a well-worn pair of Berkies, though, is that they gunk up and get stained after a while.
The good news is that Birkenstocks aren’t tricky to clean at home. You only need a few simple tools to give them a new lease on life. According to Birkenstock’s official website, here’s how you can clean your sandals at home:
What you’ll need
- Brush
- Old toothbrush
- Cloth
- Leather shampoo
- Two bowls of water
Method
Birkenstocks generally come with two different kinds of straps – nubuck leather/suede straps or smooth leather straps. Depending on which your pair has, the method of cleaning will differ slightly. We’ll provide methods to clean both types.
Birkenstock.com
1. Give the straps a dry rub
Step 1 for nubuck/suede straps: Start by removing dried, coarse dust and dirt with a dry, clean brush.
Step 1 for smooth leather straps: You can remove dust and dirt with a lint-free, slightly damp cloth.
2. Clean with a damp crush
Step 2 works for both nubuck/suede and smooth leather.
First, open the straps. Clean the inside with a damp brush, then clean the outside of the straps, also with a damp brush.
3. Clean the footbed
Step 3 works for both nubuck/suede and smooth leather.
The footbed can now be lathered in circular movements with a little water and some leather shampoo. Using an old toothbrush is the best way to massage in the shampoo.
4. Remove the lather
Step 4 works for both nubuck/suede and smooth leather.
Use a wet cloth and wash the sandals off with lukewarm water. Do not hold the sandals under running water and ensure that they do not become completely wet.
5. Clean the sole
Step 5 works for both nubuck/suede and smooth leather.
If necessary, you can clean the sole with a damp brush, and then with with a damp cloth.
6. Let it dry
Step 6 works for both nubuck/suede and smooth leather.
Let the sandals dry at room temperature to retain their moisture-absorbing qualities. Do not let the sandals dry in the sun. Once the sandals have dried completely after 24 hours, you can then brush the footbed with a leather brush and close the straps. Your sandals should now be as good as new.
7. Protect
This is an extra (optional) step.
Step 7 for nubuck/suede straps: Spray the upper leather of your sandals regularly with a colourless waterproofing spray (use sparingly and observe application instructions). Only spray the outside and cover the footbed with paper for protection.
Step 7 for leather straps: Grease the upper leather of your sandals regularly with some leather grease. Only grease the outside and cover the footbed with paper for protection.
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Feature Image: Unsplash
