How to clean and care for your BIRKENSTOCK footbed: let’s get started

We love our sandals and to make them last as long as possible, the proper care is key. This guide explains how you can clean and care for the footbed of your sandals. We will also recommend some suitable shoe care products from the BIRKENSTOCK online shop. So grab your BIRKENSTOCKS and let’s get started!

How to clean the footbed of your BIRKENSTOCK sandals

The footbed of your BIRKENSTOCK sandals is most likely to get dirty. Due to dust, dirt and sweat, the leather lining of your footbed will darken over time – not a pretty sight. But don’t you worry: with the proper shoe care products and a little time, your footbed will soon look as good as new.

What you need:

• Solitaire SANDAL CLEANER (or water and leather shampoo)

• a small brush for cleaning (e.g. an old tooth brush)

• a damp cloth

• a leather brush to fluff up the leather

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Open the buckles: before starting the cleaning process, open all buckles of your sandals. That makes it easier to clean the footbed.

2. Apply and massage in the cleaning product: simply apply a small amount onto the footbed. Carefully massage the cleaning product into the footbed using the small brush – it’s kind of like brushing your teeth.

3. Remove the lather: remove the lather with a damp cloth. Please make sure that every bit of lather is removed completely.

4. Wipe down: use a clean cloth, hold it under lukewarm water and once again wipe the footbed thoroughly. Do not hold the sandals under running water!

5. Let them dry: give your shoes at least 24 hours to dry properly. It’s best to leave them in a spot that is warm but not sunny.

6. Fluff up the footbed: when the footbed is completely dry, fluff up the footbed with a clean shoe brush.

What is the best way to keep your footbed clean for longer?

The footbed of your BIRKENSTOCK sandals attracts dust, dirt and sweat like a magnet. But these preventive measures can help keep your footbed clean for longer.

Clean your feet: clean feet are key if you want to keep your footbed looking as good as new. So before slipping into your sandals, make sure to thoroughly clean and then dry your feet.

Use a footbed protection spray: a protective spray for the footbed, e.g. “Collonil Cork”, is like an invisible shield against dirt and sweat. It forms a protective layer on the footbed which prevents dirt and sweat from soaking into the material. Simply spray it onto the footbed and your BIRKENSTOCKS are ready for the next adventure.

Wear socks: yes, you read that right. Socks in sandals are not only a stylish fashion statement but they’re also a real lifesaver when it comes to the look of your BIRKENSTOCK footbed. They absorb sweat and prevent skin particles from sticking to your footbed. So why not combine a pair of colourful socks with your BIRKENSTOCKS?

Wipe off the footbed: if you just spent the whole day in your BIRKENSTOCKS, take a couple of minutes in the evening to wipe down the footbed with a damp cloth. This removes sweat and dirt before they have a chance to stick to your footbed.

With these preventive measures, you can keep the footbed of your BIRKENSTOCK sandals clean for longer and ensure that you get the best out of your beloved sandals. And always remember that the proper care for your sandals not only includes regular cleaning but also preventive measures. So let’s get started and give your BIRKENSTOCKS the care they deserve!

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