How To
How To Clean BIRKENSTOCKs
So, you’ve invested in a pair of BIRKENSTOCKs for summer? Good call – they look the part, offer great arch support, and could very likely be the most comfy pair of sandals you’ll ever wear.
And let’s be real: you’re going to be wearing them a lot – whether you’re taking your Boston clogs on your next city break or slipping into your Arizona sandals for a day at the beach – so a little wear and tear is definitely to be expected. But don’t stress: we’ve got you covered with our handy guide on how to clean BIRKENSTOCK sandals, so you can keep them looking fresh all summer long.
How to Clean BIRKENSTOCKs: Step-by-Step
Quick pause before you get stuck in – not all BIRKENSTOCKs are built the same, so it’s worth knowing what you’re working with. Suede and nubuck uppers need a gentle touch, so stick to brushing and avoid too much water. Smooth leather can handle a damp cloth or specialist cleaner, while Birko-Flor is low maintenance and can be wiped clean easily. One rule across the board: don’t soak them. The cork footbed doesn’t love excess water, so keep things controlled.
Ready to get those beloved BIRKENSTOCKs looking brand new again? Here’s what you’re going to need:
Warm water
Bicarbonate of soda
Suede cleaning brush
Toothbrush
Cloth
Sponge
How to Clean BIRKENSTOCK Sandals & Clogs
- Remove excess dirt
Use a suede cleaning brush to gently remove any surface dirt from the footbeds and uppers. Keep it light, this is more of a sweep than a scrub.
- Prepare the mixture
Mix bicarbonate of soda and water at roughly a 2:1 ratio. You’re aiming for a thick paste rather than anything too runny.
- Apply the paste
Using a toothbrush, work the paste into the footbeds in small circular motions. Focus on areas that see the most wear and try to avoid the exposed cork edges while you’re doing this.
- Clean using the sponge
Use a damp sponge to wipe away the paste. Take your time here and avoid over-saturating the sandal (less water = better results!)
- Dab dry and reshape
Use a cloth to gently dab away excess moisture, then leave your BIRKENSTOCKs to air dry in a cool, shaded spot (PSA: avoid drying in direct sunlight or at radiators – this can crack the cork soles). If you’ve got some paper to hand, lightly stuff the shoes to help them hold their shape while drying.
- Restore the finish
Once dry, go back in with your suede brush to lift the texture and bring the footbeds back to life – and enjoy your good-as-new sandals!
Keep Them Fresher for Longer
A little TLC makes a big difference when keeping your BIRKENSTOCKs looking fresh, especially if you’re wearing them on repeat. Let them air out between wears and avoid getting them fully soaked – and for suede pairs, a protective spray can also go a long way.
From Bostons on city streets to Arizonas by the water, your BIRKENSTOCKs are built to be worn properly. Keep them clean, treat them right, and they’ll stay in your rotation for the long run.
Quick FAQs
It depends how much mileage they’re getting – we’d recommend a light clean every few weeks if you’re wearing them regularly, and a deeper clean mid-season or after holidays, festivals, or heavier wear.
Definitely not! It’s too harsh and can damage both the cork and the uppers.
It’s completely normal – natural oils and moisture from your feet cause the colour to deepen with wear.
Regular cleaning helps, but airing them out between wears is just as important.