Luckily, cleaning Birkenstocks is a breeze.

If you love these sandals, it’s crucial that you know more about cleaning Birkenstocks.

Dip an old toothbrush or a small soft-bristled brush in the solution.

birkenstocks

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

Working in a small area at a time, gently scrub the cork sole.

When the soles are clean, wipe down the entire cork area with a cloth dipped in plain water.

This will rinse away any soapy residue.

materials for cleaning birkenstocks

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

Allow the shoes to air-dry away from direct sunlight and heat.

Keep the footbeds dry while cleaning the cork soles and straps.

To restore and condition leather straps, use a commercial shoe polish in a matching color.

using an old toothbrush to gently scrub birkenstocks

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

To keep the leather pliable, use a leather conditioner following the label directions.

This is especially important if your shoes have been rain-soaked.

Forpatent leatherstraps, wipe the straps with a damp cloth.

using a cloth to brush off surface dirt

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

Use a dab of petroleum jelly on a soft cloth to buff away scuffs.

Use a bit of glass cleaner on a soft cloth to restore the shine.

Lift away any fresh stains from mud or food.

using a soft damp cloth on birkenstocks

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

Allow thesuedeto dry and use the brush to loosen and remove the stain.

Allow the cornstarch to remain on the stain for at least four hours before brushing it away.

Do not oversaturate the leather footbeds.

leather polish

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

Clean the footbeds with leather soap following the label instructions using a microfiber cloth.

Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and scrub the footbeds.

Use a damp, clean microfiber cloth to rinse away any soapy residue.

Surface soil removed from suede and nubuck Birkenstocks with microfiber cloth

The Spruce / Lauren Simpson

Allow the shoes to air-dry away from the sun or direct heat for at least 24 hours.

Don’t forget to wipe away dirt from the cork soles with a damp cloth.

With regular use, Birkenstocks should be thoroughly cleaned once per month, or at least once per season.

Dried stains scrubbed off Birkenstock suede strap with pencil eraser

The Spruce / Lauren Simpson

Try a small spot in an inconspicuous area, first.

Saddle soap can be used as a substitute for leather shampoo.

If you’re considering other DIY options, be careful, as leather as easily damaged.

Suede Birkenstock strap wiped with cornstarch to absorb oil

The Spruce / Lauren Simpson

Gum hardened with ice cubes in plastic bag on suede Birkenstock

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-birkenstocks-5076180

cork conditioner

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida