Step-by-step guide to clean Birkenstock Footbeds | Make them look new with SHOEGR
Birkenstocks are known for their comfort and durability, but after extended use, their footbeds can start to look worn out. Over time, dirt, oil, and sweat can build up, affecting both the appearance and comfort of your favorite pair. If you want to make your Birkenstocks look new again, the good news is that you can clean and refresh their footbeds easily with the right tools and techniques. In this step-by-step guide, we'll show you how to clean Birkenstock footbeds and restore them to their former glory with SHOEGR’s shoe cleaning kits.
Key Birkenstock Cleaning Essentials:
-
Suede Eraser
-
Suede Brush
-
Cleaner Solution or Foam
-
Soft, Medium, & Hard Brush Combo or All-purpose Brush
-
Microfiber Towel
Steps to follow:
Step 1: Dry Brush to Remove Dirt & Dust
Before starting to clean, start by removing loose dirt and dust. Use a dry soft brush or all-purpose brush to gently brush off any debris from the footbed, straps, and soles. This prevents dirt from settling deeper when cleaning with a solution.
Step 2: Clean the Footbed
The BIRKENSTOCK soft footbed is made of cork and anatomically designed for comfort. To clean it properly:
✔ Use a suede eraser & brush – This helps remove toe and foot impressions. Get the SHOEGR suede shoe cleaner kit that includes all both the suede eraser and brush that you’ll need.
✔ Apply solution only if necessary – If deeper cleaning is needed, use a soft or all-purpose brush with a gentle shoe cleaning solution. For a deep clean of the entire Birkenstock, use the shoe cleaning foam or solution for a complete clean. The SHOEGR Instant Cleaning Kit comes with 150 ml of instant cleaner foam and an all-purpose brush. Or you can use the SHOEGR standard shoe kit that comes with 100ml of shoe cleaning solution, all-purpose brush and microfiber towel.
✔ Avoid excess moisture – Drain excess water from the brush before applying the solution.
✔ Work in small sections – Clean one patch at a time, scrubbing gently and wiping with a microfiber towel immediately. Avoid letting the solution sit too long to prevent material damage.
Step 3: Clean the Nubuck Leather Straps
For the nubuck leather straps, use a microfiber towel dipped in the cleaning solution or a soft brush to wipe away dirt. Be gentle to maintain the texture and quality of the leather.
Step 4: Clean the EVA Sole
The midsoles and outsoles are made of EVA, which requires deeper cleaning:
✔ Use a hard or all-purpose brush to scrub away stubborn dirt.
✔ Pay extra attention to the tread to remove any trapped debris.
Step 5: Air Dry
After cleaning, let your sandals air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause the materials to dry out or crack.
By following these steps, you can keep your BIRKENSTOCK sandals fresh, clean, and comfortable for longer!
Extra Care Tips:
-
Keep Them Away from Heat:
Rule number one of caring for Birkenstocks is never to expose them to extreme or direct heat. Avoid leaving them in hot cars or in direct sunlight for long periods. -
Keep Them Smelling Fresh:
Birkenstocks are best known for two things: comfort and smell. This unfortunate latter comes from being exposed to bare feet, sweat, and the elements. Simply grab a bottle of deodorizer for shoes, spray the entire footbed with an even layer, and wipe away any dirt or excess cleaner with a clean cloth. -
Scrub Away Stains Gently:
The cork footbed of Birkenstock tends to develop dark footprint stains over time, which can be unsightly. Keep them clean so they last longer and remain as comfortable as new.
Final thoughts
Cleaning your Birkenstocks doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With the right tools, such as the SHOEGR instant shoe cleaning kit and suede cleaning kit, you can easily restore your shoes to their original beauty. Regular cleaning not only helps maintain the appearance of your Birkenstocks but also ensures that the footbed remains comfortable and durable for years to come.
By following this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to keep your Birkenstocks looking as good as new, so you can continue enjoying their comfort for many seasons to come!
