How To Take Care of Birkenstock Sandals

If you’re the proud owner of a pair of Birkenstocks, you already know the unbeatable comfort they bring. The signature cork footbed molds to your feet, providing excellent support for your arches and joints. But are you showing your Birks the love they deserve?

With proper care, your Birkenstocks can last for years, maybe even a lifetime! Follow these essential tips to keep your sandals in top condition:

Key Birkenstock Care Essentials:

• Nubuck/Suede Brush
• Cloth
• Birkenstock Cork Sealer
• Birkenstock Clean & Refresh
• Birkenstock Water & Stain Repellent

Our Top Birkenstock Care Tips:

1. Protect Them from Heat

Heat is your Birkenstocks’ worst enemy! Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight, near radiators, fireplaces, or in hot cars. Excessive heat can cause the cork to dry out and crack, damaging the footbed and reducing the lifespan of your sandals. If your Birks get wet, resist the urge to speed up the drying process, let them air dry naturally.

2. Seal the Cork for Longevity

The cork footbed should maintain a smooth, glossy finish. Over time, it can dry out and start to crack. To prevent this, apply a thin layer of Birkenstock Cork Sealer whenever the cork begins to lose its sheen. Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your sandals.

3. Keep Them Fresh & Odor-Free

Birkenstocks are famous for comfort—but also for developing a noticeable smell over time. Keep them fresh with Birkenstock’s Cleaner & Refresher spray. Simply spritz the footbed, wipe away dirt with a soft cloth, and use a suede brush to restore the nap. Repeat as needed to keep your Birks smelling great.

DIY Freshness Hack: If you’re out of cleaner, mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Scrub the footbed with a toothbrush, let it sit overnight, then wipe it clean in the morning. This helps absorb odors and refresh your sandals.

4. Protect them from water stains

Your Birkenstocks, whether leather, suede, or nubuck, need protection from water damage. Before your first wear, apply Birkenstock Water & Stain Repellent to shield them from the elements. Use a suede brush to remove dirt before spraying, then let them air dry.

5. Gently Remove Stains

Dark footprint stains can develop on the cork footbed, but they’re easy to clean with mild soap and lukewarm water. Use a soft cloth to scrub gently, then let them dry at room temperature. Never use a washing machine or dryer, these will damage your Birkenstocks beyond repair.

How to clean Birkenstock sandals

Cleaning Birkenstocks will help keep them smelling fresh whilst prolonging their lifespan. Birkenstock footbeds are known for getting stained easily, so cleaning them is key to keeping them in top condition.

You should clean Birkenstock sandals every few weeks, depending on how often you wear them and how stained or muddy they are. You must first remove any surface dirt before removing any dry, oily or sticky stains.

The material of the shoe determines the best way to clean Birkenstocks. For example, you’d clean suede Birkenstocks differently from leather ones. However, by regularly applying Birkenstock Water & Stain Repellent, you can protect the upper from water and dirt.

Can you wash Birkenstocks?

Birkenstock cleaning tip 101: never put them in the washing machine. They should also never be put in a tumble dryer. Due to how Birkenstocks are made, they’re too delicate to be placed in a washing machine. Instead, they need to be cleaned by hand.

Can Birkenstocks get wet?

While occasional exposure to rain won’t ruin your sandals, prolonged water exposure can weaken the materials. If your Birks do get wet, dry them in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight or artificial heat sources.

How to Store Your Birkenstocks

When not in use, store your Birks on a shoe rack. Just make sure it’s away from radiators or direct sunlight. Some people even place tea bags inside to absorb moisture and keep them smelling fresh!

How to store Birkenstocks

As we’ve already mentioned, you should keep Birkenstocks away from heat. When you’re not wearing your Birks, they can be kept on a shoe rack alongside your other footwear, providing this is not placed in front of a radiator or area in direct sunlight.

Did you know some people put teabags in their Birkenstocks while they are stored away to keep them smelling fresh?

How long do Birkenstocks last?

Birkenstocks don’t come with a specific longevity guarantee, but with proper care, they can last for many years. Over time, you might notice natural wear like cork loss, worn soles, or minor staining. If your sandals need a refresh, consider getting them professionally repaired.

Invest in Comfort That Lasts

By following these simple care tips, your Birkenstocks will stay comfortable, stylish, and durable for years to come.

If you haven’t yet experienced the comfort of Birkenstocks, explore our full collection of men’s and women’s styles, including the iconic Arizona and Gizeh sandals. Your feet will thank you!