Cleaning your Birkenstock sandals can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we will explore a simple and effective method for cleaning your sandals, as shared by Cleaning with Georgia on TikTok.
The Problem with Water
Georgia emphasizes the importance of avoiding water when cleaning your Birkenstock sandals. Water can damage the shoes, causing the sealant to degrade or become compromised. Instead, she recommends using sandpaper to remove stains and deodorize the shoe.
- Using water can damage the sealant on your Birkenstock sandals
- Water can also cause the material to become discolored
So, why use sandpaper instead of water? Sandpaper works as a physical abrasion, creating tiny scratches on the cork that loosen the dirty material and lift the stain. This method is gentle and effective, making it an ideal solution for cleaning your Birkenstock sandals.
Removing Stains with Sandpaper
Georgia recommends applying gentle pressure with the sandpaper until the black stain starts to come off. This will help remove the stains and leave your Birkenstock sandals looking like new.
- Apply gentle pressure with the sandpaper until the stain starts to come off
- Continue applying pressure until the stain is completely removed
The sandpaper also helps to remove any dirt or debris that may be stuck to the shoe. By using sandpaper, you can ensure that your Birkenstock sandals are clean and free of stains.
Deodorizing with Baking Soda
After removing the stains, Georgia recommends adding a liberal amount of baking soda to the shoe. This will help deodorize the shoe and leave it smelling fresh.
The baking soda should be left to set for a few minutes before being wiped away. This will allow the baking soda to penetrate the material and leave the shoe smelling fresh.
Removing Excess Baking Soda
After the baking soda has set, the excess should be wiped away with a soft cloth. This will ensure that the shoe is free of any residue.
The baking soda will also help to absorb any odors that may be present in the shoe. By using baking soda, you can ensure that your Birkenstock sandals are not only clean but also fresh and odor-free.
Protecting Your Birkenstock Sandals
Birkenstock has previously shared some care tips for keeping sandals in good condition. One of the most important tips is to keep the shoes out of extreme heat or temperatures. This can cause the cork and EVA material to become damaged.
It’s also best to avoid walking in water, as the over-saturation could lead to the material’s sealant degrading or becoming compromised. Applying some cork sealer on the sandals can help to protect the cork and ensure that the shoe remains in good condition.
Conclusion
Cleaning your Birkenstock sandals can be a simple task when you use the right techniques. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your sandals are clean, free of stains, and smelling fresh. Remember to avoid using water and instead use sandpaper to remove stains and deodorize the shoe. With a little patience and effort, you can keep your Birkenstock sandals looking like new.
By following these simple steps, you can also protect your Birkenstock sandals from damage and keep them looking great for years to come.
“Cleaning your Birkenstock sandals is a great tip! I’ve always wondered how to clean my birks.” – Lynzie
“Ohh I love this!
